Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust

Posted on June 14, 2026

Delicious lemon tart with a buttery shortbread crust garnished with lemon zest

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Cooking time

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why make this recipe

A Lemon Tart with a Shortbread Crust is a classic dessert that brings a bright and refreshing flavor to any table. The balance of sweet and tangy lemon filling paired with a buttery, crumbly crust makes every bite a delight. Whether you are preparing for a special occasion or just looking for a treat to enjoy at home, this tart is sure to impress friends and family. It’s simple to make and offers a wonderful homemade touch that makes it extra special.

Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust

how to make Lemon Tart with a Shortbread Crust

Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups All Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 3/4 cup Butter (room temp)
  • 1/2 tsp Vanilla
  • a pinch of Salt
  • 4 Large Eggs
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • Juice of 3 lemons (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 1/2 cup All Purpose Flour

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. In a mixing bowl of a stand mixer using a paddle attachment, mix the butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
  3. Add flour and mix until the mixture starts to form a dough.
  4. Press the dough into a 10-inch tart pan.
  5. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool completely.
  6. In a mixing bowl using a hand blender, mix the eggs, lemon zest and juice, sugar, and flour until smooth. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust.
  7. Bake for about 30 minutes until set and the edges are slightly brown.
  8. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Chill the tart in the fridge and sprinkle powdered sugar before serving.

how to serve Lemon Tart with a Shortbread Crust

This lemon tart is best served chilled. You can slice it into wedges and serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for an added touch. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top enhances its presentation and gives it a lovely finish.

Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust

how to store Lemon Tart with a Shortbread Crust

To store your lemon tart, cover it with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This will help maintain its flavors and texture. Ensure it is cooled completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust

tips to make Lemon Tart with a Shortbread Crust

  • Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
  • Make sure to let the tart cool completely before adding the lemon filling to avoid mixing with the crust.
  • Chill the tart for a few hours before serving to help it set nicely.
  • Adjust the sugar in the filling if you prefer it more or less sweet.

variation

You can try adding different flavors to your lemon tart, such as lime or orange zest for a citrus twist. Another option is to add some fresh herbs like basil or mint to the filling for a unique taste. You can also experiment with different crusts, like a graham cracker or almond flour crust, for an interesting change.

FAQs

  • Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
    While bottled lemon juice can be used, fresh lemon juice gives a better flavor and freshness to the tart.

  • Can I freeze the lemon tart?
    Yes, you can freeze the lemon tart. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

  • How do I know when the filling is set?
    The filling should be slightly firm around the edges and just a little wobbly in the center when it is done baking. It will continue to set as it cools.

Delicious lemon tart with a buttery shortbread crust garnished with lemon zest

Lemon Tart with a Shortbread Crust

A classic dessert featuring a bright and refreshing lemon filling paired with a buttery, crumbly shortbread crust, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Crust
  • 1 3/4 cups All Purpose Flour plus extra for dusting
  • 1/2 cup Sugar for the crust
  • 3/4 cup Butter room temperature
  • 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch Salt
For the Lemon Filling
  • 4 Large Eggs
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest freshly grated
  • 3 lemons Juice of freshly squeezed
  • 1 cup Sugar for the filling
  • 1/2 cup All Purpose Flour for the filling

Method
 

Preparation of Shortbread Crust
  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. In a mixing bowl of a stand mixer using a paddle attachment, mix the butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
  3. Add flour and mix until the mixture starts to form a dough.
  4. Press the dough into a 10-inch tart pan.
  5. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool completely.
Preparation of Lemon Filling
  1. In a mixing bowl using a hand blender, mix the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, and flour until smooth.
  2. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust.
  3. Bake for about 30 minutes until set and the edges are slightly brown.
  4. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Chill the tart in the fridge.

Notes

This lemon tart is best served chilled. You can slice it into wedges and serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for an added touch.

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