Name: Delicious Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups flour (Consider gluten-free for an option.); 0.5 teaspoon sea salt (Regular salt works in a pinch.); 1 tablespoon sugar (Brown sugar for depth.); 0.5 cups butter (Diced and cold.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Vanilla bean paste elevates the taste.); 3 tablespoons cold water (Ensure it's ice-cold.); 2 cups strawberries (Substitute with blueberries or raspberries.); 1 cup vanilla yogurt (Greek yogurt is a thicker alternative.); 0.25 cups honey (Maple syrup can be used instead.); 2 large eggs (Flax eggs are a vegan option.); 0.5 cups lemon juice (Fresh lemons are best.); 2 tablespoons lemon zest (Brings tangy brightness.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (You can use margarine if needed.); 1 pinch coarse salt (Regular salt is acceptable.)

As I sunk my fork into one of these Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd, a wave of nostalgia washed over me—reminding me of sunlit picnics and laughter-filled Easter brunches. This spring dessert features a delicate, flaky crust cradling a creamy custard that’s perfectly balanced with the sweetness of honey and the tartness of fresh strawberries, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser. Not only is this tart a feast for the eyes, but it’s also quick to prepare, which is a lifesaver for busy home-chefs like us. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, these delightful tarts are sure to brighten your table. Are you ready to impress your guests with this sweet seasonal treat ?

Why are Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts special?

Delightfully Simple: This recipe combines easy steps with accessible ingredients, making it perfect for everyone, from novice cooks to expert chefs.

Fresh and Bright Flavor: The vibrant strawberries paired with zesty lemon curd provide a refreshing taste that captures the essence of spring.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tarts as individual servings or a stunning large tart for special occasions, making it an adaptable dessert for any gathering.

Time-Saving Treat: Prepping and baking is a breeze, letting you whip up these tarts quickly for last-minute events or casual weeknight indulgence.

Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Whether it’s an Easter brunch or a casual afternoon tea, these tarts are sure to wow your guests just like our Delightful Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad or a delicious Air Fryer Honey appetizer!

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts Ingredients

This delightful recipe for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd will have you baking in no time!

For the Crust

Flour – Provides structure to the crust; try gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
Sea Salt – Enhances flavor; regular salt works in a pinch.
Sugar – Sweetens the crust; consider using brown sugar for extra depth.
Butter – Adds richness and flakiness; margarine can be substituted, though results may vary.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses the crust with flavors; using vanilla bean paste will elevate the taste.
Cold Water – Binds the crust ingredients; ensure it’s ice-cold for optimal flakiness.

For the Custard Filling

Strawberries – The star of the tart; substitute with blueberries or raspberries for a twist.
Vanilla Yogurt – Base for the custard, adding creaminess; Greek yogurt is a thicker alternative.
Honey – Natural sweetener for the custard; maple syrup can replace it, but flavor will change.
Eggs – Binds the filling and helps set the custard; flax eggs are a great vegan option.

For the Lemon Curd

Lemon Juice and Zest – Brings a tangy brightness to the curd; fresh lemons are always best.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness to the curd; you can use margarine if needed.
Coarse Salt – Balances the sweetness of the curd; regular salt is perfectly acceptable.

With these fresh ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating a perfect batch of Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

Step 1: Make the Lemon Curd
In a medium saucepan over low heat, whisk together ½ cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of sugar, ½ cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of lemon zest, and a pinch of coarse salt. Gradually add in 3 beaten eggs while continuously whisking. Cook the mixture on low, stirring constantly for 8 to 9 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Pour into a bowl to cool, then refrigerate it until ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Cut in ½ cup of cold, diced butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and enough cold water (about 3 tablespoons) until the dough comes together. Form into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Carefully line your tart pans with the rolled dough, pressing it gently into the edges. Using a fork, prick the bottoms to prevent bubbling. Place baking beans or weights on top, and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before filling with custard.

Step 4: Prepare Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, ⅓ cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in 1 cup of vanilla yogurt and ¼ cup of honey until fully blended—be careful not to overmix. Lay fresh, sliced strawberries evenly on the cooled tart crust, then pour the custard filling over the fruit, distributing it evenly.

Step 5: Bake Tarts
Bake the assembled Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the filling is set and the crust turns golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready when a gentle jiggle remains in the center, indicating a creamy custard texture. Once done, remove the tarts from the oven and cool them on a wire rack for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Curd
Once the tarts have slightly cooled, drizzle a generous layer of your homemade lemon curd over the top to enhance the flavors of the strawberries and custard. Allow the tarts to cool completely at room temperature for an hour or so before serving. The final touch transforms your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd into a stunning sweet indulgence perfect for sharing!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Chill the Dough: Ensure your pie dough is properly chilled before rolling it out. This keeps the crust flaky and helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
Whisk Constantly: When making the lemon curd, whisk constantly over low heat to prevent the eggs from scrambling. The right technique ensures a smooth, velvety texture.
Avoid Overbaking: To achieve the perfect custard consistency, bake the tarts just until set, allowing for a gentle jiggle in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry filling.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and lemons make all the difference in flavor. Frozen fruit won’t provide the same brightness for your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd.
Serve Chill: Let your tarts cool completely before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easy for an impressive presentation.

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts Variations

Feel free to make these Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts your own with these delicious twists!

Mixed Berries: Swap out strawberries for a blend of seasonal berries, like blueberries and raspberries, for a vibrant burst of color.
Nutty Crust: Add crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts to the crust mixture to provide a delightful crunch and a unique flavor.
Honey Alternative: For a different sweetness profile, use agave syrup instead of honey in the custard for a slightly different taste.
Citrus Zest: Enhance the lemon curd by incorporating citrus zests from oranges or limes for a fragrant twist that brightens the dish.
Spiced Custard: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for a warm flavor that complements the fruit beautifully. This cozy touch will bring a hint of warmth to your tarts.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the tarts just before serving for a decadent finish that elevates this dessert to a whole new level.
Pre-made Shortcrust: If you’re in a pinch, opt for store-bought shortcrust pastry instead of making the dough from scratch for a quick and delicious solution.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the crust for a tasty adaptation that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture.

These variations will allow you to create a uniquely tailored version of the tarts, just like how our Strawberry Cheesecake Protein balls can offer a different yet equally delightful twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the lemon curd and pie dough up to 3 days ahead; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. The custard should be cooled completely before covering, which helps prevent a skin from forming. Additionally, you can slice the strawberries and keep them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before assembly, ensuring they remain fresh and vibrant. When ready to serve, roll out your dough, assemble the tarts with the prepped ingredients, bake them fresh, and drizzle with lemon curd for a delightful dessert that tastes just as delicious as if made on the spot!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Fridge: Store leftover tarts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the lemon curd separate to maintain the crust’s texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual tarts wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: To reheat, warm tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until the filling is warmed through, ensuring they don’t dry out.

Freshness Tip: These Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts are best enjoyed fresh; the crust softens over time, so enjoy them soon after baking for the best experience!

What to Serve with Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

Enhance your spring gathering with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of these tarts.

Fresh Mint Tea: A fragrant and refreshing option that cleanses the palate, making it the perfect match for the sweet tartness.
Lemon Sorbet: This light, icy dessert echoes the tang of the lemon curd, offering a bright finish alongside your tarts.
Whipped Coconut Cream: This velvety topping adds a hint of tropical sweetness, beautifully balancing the tartness of the lemon curd.
Berry Compote: A lush creation of mixed berries simmered down, it provides a burst of fruitiness, enhancing the strawberries in your tarts.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like Brie or Goat cheese complements the creamy custard, creating a rich flavor contrast.
Sparkling Rosé: The effervescence and fruity notes of this drink elevate the festive spirit of your gathering, serving as a delightful sip between each tart bite.
Pistachio Crumble: A crunchy topping that adds texture and nutty flavor, providing a lovely contrast to the smooth custard and fresh fruit.
Almond Biscotti: The crunch of biscotti with its light almond flavor makes for a delightful pairing, perfect for dipping or enjoying on the side.

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries?
Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and free from blemishes or dark spots all over. If they’re shiny and sweet-smelling, they’re perfect for your tarts. I always recommend choosing berries that have a green cap, as that indicates freshness!

How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any remaining tarts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crust from becoming soggy, I suggest keeping the lemon curd separate until you’re ready to serve the tarts.

Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes! For longer-lasting treats, you can freeze individual Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts. Wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect against freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.

What if my lemon curd doesn’t thicken?
Very! If your lemon curd isn’t thickening, it might need a little more heat. Increase the heat slightly while whisking constantly until it thickens—usually 1 to 2 more minutes. You want it to clump a bit on the back of a spoon. If it’s still not working, a quick trick is to mix in a bit of cornstarch, dissolved in a tablespoon of cold water, and then cook until thickened.

Are these tarts safe for allergies?
If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you’re in luck! For a gluten-free version, swap the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. You can also make a dairy-free custard using non-dairy yogurt. Always check labels for honey, eggs, and any other ingredients for allergy safety; there are plenty of alternatives available if needed!

How long do these tarts last in the fridge?
Stored properly, these tarts can last up to 3 days in the fridge. However, they taste best fresh! If you notice the crust softening, it’s time to dig in! Enjoy them within the first couple of days for the ultimate flavor experience.