Easy Lemon Tarts (Pakistani Bakery Style)

Sweet, crispy short-crust pastry with signature scalloped edges, filled with lemon curd swirl, dotted with red jam- these easy lemon tarts are a common sight in almost every Pakistani/ Karachi bakery.

They are super popular and the sweet & tangy combo just hits the right spot.

Recipe at a Glance

For the Tart Shells

Butter – Cold, unsalted

Flour – All purpose flour

Eggs – 1 medium

Icing Sugar – powdered or confectioner’s

Water- Room temperature

For the Lemon Curd Filling

Lemon Juice

Egg Yolks- 5 large approximately

Sugar– Granulated

Butter– unsalted

Step by Step Process

For the Tart Shells

Step 1– Mix flour and icing sugar.

Step 2- Run in butter till it resembles bread crumbs.

Step 3- Add in egg and form a dough.

Step 4- Roll out between wax paper. 

Step 5- Cut into circles according to your muffin pan size .

Step 6- Prick the shells and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 7- Bake at 350 F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8- Cool.

For the Lemon Curd Filling

Step 1– Combine all ingredients and whisk until mixture thickens.

Step 2– Strain the mixture, cover and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours.

Step 3– Pipe the chilled filling in the base.

Step 4– Dot with red jam if desired.

FAQs

How do you make lemon tarts from scratch?

Many people would want to use the store bought sweet short crust pastry for the shells however, as you can see in the recipe that they are super easy to make. Also this is a great make ahead recipe since you can make tarts a day before and bake them and store in an airtight container. You could also make lemon filling in advance and store in fridge, before assembling these beauties.

Do lemon tart needs to be refrigerated?

Yes the filling has eggs which needs refrigeration even after assembling and also to hold its shape. Although they should be fine at room temperature that is not too hot but it tastes great out of refrigerator as well, however you could choose to let them come to room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

These tarts make a perfect tea-time snack and can be eaten straight out of refrigerator or after bringing to room temperature.

Substitutions and Variations

Storage and Make Ahead

Refer to FAQs above

Related Recipes

If you are a fan of sweet tarts, you can also try out these Walnut Tart or Fruit Tart recipes. For savory tarts, this Spinach Tart recipe is a keeper.