Lemon Tart with Shortbread Base

Posted on June 14, 2026

Delicious lemon tart with a shortbread base, garnished with fresh lemon slices.

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

why make this recipe

Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any meal. It combines the crisp, buttery texture of a shortbread crust with a creamy, tangy lemon filling. This tart is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for gatherings and special occasions. With its balance of sweetness and tartness, it is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make, even for beginners.

Lemon Tart with Shortbread Base

how to make Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust

Ingredients :

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

Directions :

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
  3. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Stir in the egg yolk and form it into a ball. Press it into a 9-inch tart pan.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
  6. In another bowl, whisk together lemon juice, granulated sugar, eggs, and lemon zest until smooth.
  7. Pour the lemon filling into the baked crust.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until set.
  9. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  10. Serve chilled with a drizzle of heavy cream.

how to serve Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust

To serve the Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust, slice it into wedges and place on dessert plates. Drizzle a little heavy cream over each piece for added richness. You can also garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Lemon Tart with Shortbread Base

how to store Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust

You can store the Lemon Tart in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the tart. Wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Lemon Tart with Shortbread Base

tips to make Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust

  • Make sure your butter is really cold for a flaky crust.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overbake the tart; it should be set but still slightly wobbly in the center when you take it out of the oven.
  • Allow the tart to cool completely before refrigerating to set properly.

variation

You can add other flavors to the filling, such as berries or herbs like rosemary for a unique twist. Another option is to replace some of the lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a store-bought crust if you’re short on time. Just follow the directions for pre-baking it before adding the lemon filling.

2. How can I tell if the lemon tart is done?
The tart is done when the filling is set but has a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up as it cools.

3. Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Absolutely! This tart can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. It’s often best served chilled.

4. What can I serve with the lemon tart?
The lemon tart pairs well with whipped cream, fresh fruits, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.

Delicious lemon tart with a shortbread base, garnished with fresh lemon slices.

Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust

A delightful dessert combining a crisp, buttery shortbread crust with a tangy lemon filling, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Shortbread Crust
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour For the crust
  • 0.5 cups powdered sugar For the crust
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt For the crust
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, chilled and cubed Ensure butter is cold for flakiness
  • 1 large egg yolk For binding the crust
Lemon Filling
  • 0.25 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice Use fresh juice for the best flavor
  • 1 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the filling
  • 3 large eggs For the filling
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Enhances lemon flavor
  • 0.25 cups heavy cream For drizzling when serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
  3. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Stir in the egg yolk and form it into a ball. Press it into a 9-inch tart pan.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking
  1. In another bowl, whisk together lemon juice, granulated sugar, eggs, and lemon zest until smooth.
  2. Pour the lemon filling into the baked crust.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until set.
  4. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Serving
  1. Slice the tart into wedges and place on dessert plates.
  2. Drizzle a little heavy cream over each piece.
  3. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint if desired.

Notes

Make sure your butter is really cold for a flaky crust. Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Don’t overbake the tart; it should be set but still slightly wobbly in the center when you take it out of the oven. Allow the tart to cool completely before refrigerating to set properly. Store in the fridge for 3-5 days or freeze for up to a month.

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