Valentines Treats Mini Lemon Tarts

Name: Valentines Treats Mini Lemon Tarts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 mini tarts
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Celebration Meals

I absolutely love whipping up these mini lemon tarts for Valentine’s Day! They are the perfect blend of tart and sweet, beautifully presented in a bite-sized format that’s perfect for sharing. The refreshing lemon filling, paired with a buttery crust, creates a delightful contrast that never fails to impress. Each mini tart is an unforgettable treat that bursts with flavor, making them a favorite among friends and family alike. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked on this simple yet elegant dessert!

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:05:35.590Z

After testing various lemon tart recipes, I found that the secret lies in balancing the acidity of the lemon with just the right amount of sweetness. My favorite trick is to add a hint of zest into the filling, which elevates the flavor profile and makes each bite incredibly refreshing. I often choose fresh lemons; the vibrant taste truly makes a difference compared to bottled juice.

Another detail I love to incorporate is, chilling the tarts for an hour after baking. This not only helps the filling to set perfectly, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The result? A zesty, creamy treat that’s absolutely irresistible and perfect for celebrating with loved ones!

        Why You'll Love These Mini Lemon Tarts
        Zesty lemon flavor balanced with sweet creaminess
Beautiful presentation ideal for special occasions
Easy to make, yet impressively delicious

      

Understanding the Crust

The tart crust is essential for holding the vibrant lemon filling and providing a delectable base. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall sweetness and saltiness of the tart. When mixing the butter with the dry ingredients, aim for a texture that resembles coarse crumbs before incorporating the egg yolk. This ensures a flaky, tender crust; over-mixing can lead to toughness, so be gentle!

Chilling the crust after pressing it into the tart pans is crucial. It allows the butter to firm up, preventing the crust from shrinking during baking. I recommend using a fork to prick the bottoms of the crusts before baking; this helps to prevent air bubbles from forming and creates a flat surface for filling. Keep an eye on them while they bake; you want them golden but not browned too much.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The filling is where the real magic happens! The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest gives these tarts their bright, zesty flavor. I suggest using freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best taste; bottled lemon juice can have a flat flavor profile that may compromise your tarts. When whisking the filling ingredients together, mix until there are no visible lumps, ensuring a smooth consistency that bakes evenly.

The heavy cream in the filling adds a rich creaminess that balances the tartness of the lemons. If you prefer a lighter filling, you can reduce the heavy cream slightly or substitute it with half-and-half. It’s important to fill the tart shells only about three-quarters full; this allows for expansion as the filling bakes and keeps it from overflowing.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for your mini lemon tarts:

For the Crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons lemon zest
2 large eggs
1/4 cup heavy cream

Make sure to prepare your ingredients in advance for a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your mini lemon tarts:

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and softened butter. Mix until crumbly, then add the egg yolk and cold water. Mix until the dough forms. Press the dough into mini tart pans and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the tart crusts for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, and heavy cream until well combined.

Fill the Tarts

Pour the lemon filling into the cooled tart shells, filling them about 3/4 full. Bake for another 15 minutes until the filling is set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before chilling in the refrigerator for an hour.

Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh berries if desired, then serve and enjoy your delicious mini lemon tarts!

These mini tarts are sure to brighten up any gathering!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Make-Ahead Tips

These mini lemon tarts can be made a day in advance, making them ideal for entertaining. Once baked and cooled, they can be refrigerated without the garnish. This way, you can save time and focus on other dishes or decorations prior to serving. Just be sure to add any toppings, such as lemon zest or berries, right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Additionally, if you’re planning to freeze the tarts, do so after baking the crust and before adding the filling. Wrap the cooled crusts tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to a month. When ready to use, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and then add your filling before baking again.

Serving Suggestions

These mini tarts shine on their own, but pairing them with a few complementary garnishes can elevate the experience. Fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream bring a freshness that pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon. For an added crunch, consider serving them with crushed meringue or finely chopped pistachios on top. This contrast not only enhances the flavor but also adds a wonderful textural element.

For a more extravagant dessert table, consider pairing these mini tarts with a citrus salad or other fruit tarts. The colors and flavors will harmonize beautifully, creating an appealing presentation. Remember, the key to impressing your guests lies in the detail, from the plating to the finishing touches—take the time to present them beautifully for maximum impact!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought tart crust?

Yes, using a store-bought crust can save time without sacrificing taste.

→ How should I store leftover tarts?

Keep any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I make the tarts in advance?

Absolutely! You can make them a day before and chill them overnight for better flavor.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option.