Lemon tart is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, offering a refreshing burst of citrus in every bite. With its buttery, flaky crust and smooth, tangy lemon filling, it’s an irresistible dessert that’s both elegant and easy to make. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, lemon tart brings a little sunshine to any occasion.
The crust is key to a great and crunchy tart. A buttery, shortcrust pastry adds a delicate crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth lemon filling. Once baked to a golden perfection, the crust provides the perfect base to hold the vibrant lemon custard. The tartness of fresh lemon juice and the richness of eggs and cream combine to create a silky filling that’s sweetened just enough to balance the citrus zing.
The filling is made by whisking together egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and zest. A little bit of cornstarch or flour helps thicken the custard, while butter makes it velvety smooth. Once poured into the baked shell, the tart bakes briefly, just enough to set the filling into a custard-like consistency without losing the brightness of the lemon.
For an extra touch, you can garnish the tart with a dusting of powdered sugar, a few lemon zest curls, or even a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries also add a pop of color and flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemon notes.
Lemon tart is a timeless French dessert that combines the simplicity of fresh ingredients with a refined, yet comforting, flavor. It’s refreshing without being overly sweet, making it a perfect way to end a meal. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply because you’re craving something citrusy, this lemon tart is sure to delight.

Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold and diced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons ice water
- 3/4 cup sugar for filling
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup water
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and dice butter. Mix until resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water and mix until dough forms.
- Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in water until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat until mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
- Whisk egg yolks and stir into the mixture. Return to heat, cook while stirring until thick. Remove from heat and add lemon juice and zest.
- Pour filling into baked crust. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Let the tart cool before serving.
I tried making this, but my filling was too runny. I don’t know if I messed up or what. Any tips?
This lemon tart is amazing! The filling turned out perfectly tangy and the crust was flaky. Definitely a keeper!
Luv it! So refreshing and bright, made it for brunch and everyone asked for seconds.
Wasn’t sure about the cornstarch part… does it even need that?
This lemon tart is devine! Perfect tang and sweetness, my whole family loves it!
Too much work for a tart. I just want something easy! 😩
Why do you add cornstarch? Isn’t it just gonna make it more chewy? Just stick to the egg yolks, right?
I dunno, but I just use egg yolks and it works fine. Cornstarch sounds fancy but maybe pointless? 🤷♂️
Cornstarch actually helps thicken the filling without making it chewy. It gives a nice texture. Try it, you won’t regret!
Why does it have cornstarch? Isn’t that for pudding? This is not how my grandma made it, but it was still good!
Delicious! I love lemon desserts and this one hits the spot. Instructions were clear and easy to follow.
So glad you liked it! Lemon desserts are the best. 🍋
I tried making this, but my tart was so runny. I must’ve done something wrong. Maybe too much water? Ugh.
It was okay, but too sour for my taste. I think I messed up with the lemon juice, maybe less next time.
Lemon tart? More like lemon disaster! I burnt the crust and the filling was too runny. Not my best day in the kitchen.
Do I really need to let it cool? I ate it warm 🤷♂️.
Yummy!! I love lemon everything. This recipe is so easy, I made it in no time. Thanks!!!
My uncle’s neighbor’s sister makes the best lemon tart, and this one ain’t it. Sorry!
This was the best! I even brought some to my neighbors. They loved it too!
Followed the steps pretty much verbatim. I was nervous about the cornstarch/egg yolk ratio, but it thickened well. The tart is tart without being harsh. Great recipe.
This lemon tart recipe is AMAZING! The acidity of the lemon mixed with the sweet crust is just perfect. I’m making this for a family gathering. Can’t wait!
That sounds delicious! I love lemon desserts, and a tart is always a crowd-pleaser. Hope your family loves it as much as you do!
Not sure if lemon and sugar go well together. Isn’t it sour? But who knows, maybe it’ll surprise me. I might try it.
Eh, it was ok. I think I prefer chocolate desserts. 🍫
Who eats lemon tart anyway? Not for me!
Not everyone likes it, but I think it’s a classic! Have you tried it with whipped cream?
Lemon tart is amazing! It’s sweet and tangy, perfect for summer. I love it!
This Lemon Tart is amazing! Zesty and sweet, just perfect for my family gathering. Thank you so much!
So glad you enjoyed it! It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser at my gatherings too! 🍋
I don’t know, it sounds too sweet. Aren’t lemon tarts supposed to be more tart? 🤔
Can someone explain why you need that much sugar? Seems excessive…
Totally delish! 😍 I might try adding strawberries next time for a twist.
Loved it! Super easy to follow, and the flavor is absolutely delightful. Perfect balance of sweet and sour!
This lemon tart is just divine! The flavors really pop, and it’s so refreshing. Will definitely make it again!
I totally agree! This lemon tart is the best, my family loves it too! 🍋
I love lemon tarts! I thought it’d be hard to make but this was pretty straightforward. Will keep this recipe!
So good!!
Easy peasy! My family loved it! I used bottled lemon juice (shhhh).
The lemon tart turned out perfect! I don’t even like lemon things much but this wowed me. 😋
So glad you liked it! Lemon tart is such a delightful dessert, even for non-lemon lovers. 🍋
This is the best lemon tart I’ve done. The texture is smooth like custard, and the crust doesn’t get soggy. 10/10 would bake again.