As I unwrap the joy of spring, my kitchen fills with the sweet aroma of fresh strawberries that practically dance with delight. Today, I’m thrilled to share my latest creation: Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd. These delightful tarts are not only a visual showstopper for any Easter brunch or spring gathering, but they also deliver a creamy, yogurt-based filling that’s both satisfying and a little healthier. The honey sweetened custard paired with a zesty layer of homemade lemon curd brings a refreshing twist to traditional desserts. Whether you stick to mini tarts or opt for a single large one, this recipe is quick to whip up, making it the perfect indulgence for busy home chefs. Ready to dive into a burst of seasonal flavors? Let’s create some springtime magic together!
Why are these tarts a must-try?
Light, Fruity Delight: The refreshing combination of creamy yogurt and fresh strawberries makes every bite heavenly. Quick and Easy: With a straightforward process, you’ll have these delightful tarts ready to impress in no time. Healthier Indulgence: Sweetened with honey, they offer a guilt-free dessert option that satisfies your sweet tooth. Versatile Ideas: Feel free to swap strawberries for seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches, giving you endless options. Enjoy them at your next gathering as a stunning centerpiece or a delicious treat after a spring meal. Ready for more flavor inspiration? Check out this Delightful Honeycrisp Broccoli salad to complement your spring menu!
Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts Ingredients
For the Crust
• Flour – Provides structure; consider gluten-free flour for a suitable alternative.
• Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and brings balance to sweetness.
• Sugar – Sweetens the crust; coconut sugar can be used for a refined sugar-free option.
• Butter – Adds flakiness; make sure it’s chilled and cubed for best results.
• Vanilla Extract – Deepens the flavor; optional but highly recommended.
• Cold Water – Combines dry ingredients; adjust based on dough consistency.
For the Filling
• Strawberries – Makes the tarts fruity and delightful; feel free to use any seasonal fruit instead.
• Vanilla Yogurt – Creates a creamy base; substitute with regular yogurt and add a touch of sugar if needed.
• Honey – Sweetens the custard; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
• Eggs – Provides structure and richness; for a vegan option, use flax eggs instead.
• Sugar – Sweetens the filling; a sugar alternative can work well here.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds lovely aroma; can be omitted if you’re short on it.
For the Lemon Curd
• Eggs – Gives body to the curd; substitutions could alter the texture significantly.
• Lemon Juice – Provides tartness; bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.
• Sugar – Sweetens the curd; consider using coconut or other alternative sugars.
• Lemon Zest – Adds bright citrus flavor; adjust juice quantity if zest isn’t available.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes creaminess; swap for coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Coarse Salt – Enhances and balances the overall flavors.
Dive into the delightful world of Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd and find your spring joy!
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, combine butter, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and coarse salt. Whisk until the butter is melted and mixture is smooth. Gradually add eggs one at a time, whisking continuously for about 8-9 minutes until the curd thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and allow to cool before using.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and sea salt. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add vanilla extract and cold water gradually, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before rolling it out into circles for your tart pans.
Step 3: Bake the Crusts
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out circles that fit your tart pans, then gently press the dough into the pans. Line each crust with parchment paper and fill with baking beans or weights. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool before adding the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Tarts
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until combined. Stir in the honey yogurt fully until smooth. Place fresh strawberries in the cooled tart crusts, then pour the yogurt custard mixture evenly over the strawberries, filling each crust to just below the rim.
Step 5: Bake the Tarts
Place the filled tart pans in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden on top. The tarts should jiggle slightly in the center when done. Allow them to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes before removing from the pans.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Drizzle the cooled lemon curd generously over each tart, allowing some to spill over for a beautiful presentation. Let the tarts cool completely, then refrigerate until ready to serve. These delightful Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are perfect for sharing at your spring gatherings.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts
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Chill the Butter: Ensure your butter is properly chilled to achieve a flaky crust. Warm butter can lead to tough crusts that don’t rise.
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Watch the Lemon Curd: If your lemon curd isn’t thickening after several minutes, slightly increase the heat while whisking continuously. This helps achieve the perfect creamy texture.
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Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow both the lemon curd and tarts to cool adequately before serving. This enhances the flavors and improves the texture of your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd.
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Egg Substitutes: If you’re aiming for a vegan dessert, substitute eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water per egg and let it sit until it thickens.
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Experiment with Fruits: Feel free to get creative with your fruit choices! Using seasonal berries or even peaches can offer delightful variations while keeping your tarts fresh and exciting.
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 pie crust and lemon curd up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the crust in an airtight container at room temperature and the lemon curd covered in the refrigerator. The filling can also be made ahead by combining the yogurt mixture, which can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the tarts by filling the cooled crusts with fresh strawberries and the custard, then bake until set. This way, you’ll have a delicious dessert with minimal effort right when you need it!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts
Fridge: Store these delightful tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best flavor and freshness.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze them, tightly wrap each tart in plastic wrap and then in foil; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the tarts in the refrigerator overnight for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating: To gently reheat, place them in a preheated oven (350°F) for about 10 minutes, ensuring they don’t dry out, and then drizzle with more lemon curd before serving.
Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts Variations
Feel free to tailor these delightful tarts to your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities while retaining that delicious flaky crust.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt in place of vanilla yogurt and replace butter with coconut oil for a luscious vegan-friendly custard.
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Fruity Swaps: Experiment with different seasonal fruits! Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a delightful twist.
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Graham Cracker Crust: Replace the traditional pie crust with a graham cracker crust for an easier, no-bake option that adds a lovely crunch.
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Sweetening Options: Try using agave nectar or maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile, perfect for those avoiding bee products.
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Additional Zing: Add a splash of orange juice or a few drops of almond extract to the custard for an unexpected flavor boost that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Single Large Tart: For a stunning presentation, gather your ingredients and create a single, large tart instead of mini tarts; it’ll be the showstopper at any gathering.
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Heat it Up: If you love a hint of spice, incorporate a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce into the filling for a surprising kick of heat.
And if you’re looking for fresh vegetables to add to your plate, don’t miss out on this delicious Honey Garlic Sausage with Sweet Potatoes that pairs beautifully with your springtime dessert!
What to Serve with Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd
As you prepare to dazzle your guests with these delightful tarts, consider complementing their rich flavors with equally enticing side dishes and drinks.
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Fresh Mint Tea: The light herbal notes of mint tea refresh the palate after indulging in the creamy, sweet tarts. Serve it warm or iced for a delightful contrast.
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Lemon Sorbet: A zesty, chilled sorbet offers a refreshing cleanse between bites of the rich custard, enhancing the overall experience of your dessert.
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Rosemary Shortbread Cookies: These buttery cookies add a unique savory twist that balances the sweetness of the tarts. Enjoy with a cup of tea for a sweet and savory treat.
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Whipped Coconut Cream: A light, airy topping made from whipped coconut milk is perfect for drizzling over the tarts, adding a dairy-free richness that complements the honey custard.
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Mixed Berry Salad: Tossed fresh berries brightened with a touch of honey add delightful color and a juicy, tart contrast to each slice of your sweet tart.
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Prosecco Spritz: This bubbly drink adds an effervescent layer to your meal, with its citrusy notes harmonizing beautifully with the lemon curd and strawberries.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For an extra indulgent idea, serve alongside chocolate-dipped strawberries that mirror the berries in the tarts while adding a luxurious touch.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a classic combination, creamy vanilla ice cream can be served on the side, melting slightly as the sweetness melds with the fruity flavors of the tarts.
Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd Recipe FAQs
What are the best strawberries to use for these tarts?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose ripe, fresh strawberries that are bright red and firm. Avoid those with dark spots or soft areas, which indicate over-ripeness. If strawberries aren’t in season, feel free to substitute with seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist.
How should I store leftover tarts?
To keep your delightful Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best experience, it’s best to enjoy them fresh, but they can easily be made a day in advance. Just make sure to cover them well to retain their moisture.
Can I freeze the tarts? How should I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze the tarts to enjoy later. First, let them cool completely, then wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
What should I do if my lemon curd doesn’t thicken?
If you find that your lemon curd isn’t thickening, simply increase the heat slightly while whisking constantly. This should encourage it to thicken up nicely. It typically takes about 8-9 minutes on low to medium heat; just make sure not to rush it, as patience pays off with a luscious, creamy result!
Can I make these tarts vegan?
Certainly! If you’re looking to make your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts plant-based, swap the regular yogurt for a dairy-free alternative, like coconut yogurt, and use flax eggs instead of traditional eggs. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water, and let it sit until it thickens. This will create a delicious, guilt-free dessert your friends and family will love!
Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd for Spring Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine butter, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and coarse salt. Whisk until the butter is melted and mixture is smooth. Gradually add eggs one at a time, whisking continuously for about 8-9 minutes until the curd thickens. Remove from heat and cool.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk flour, sugar, and sea salt. Cut in chilled butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add vanilla and cold water gradually until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 15 minutes.
- Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out circles for the tart pans, press into the pans, line with parchment paper and fill with weights. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.
- Whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla in another bowl until combined. Stir in honey yogurt until smooth. Place strawberries in cooled crusts, then pour custard mixture over them.
- Bake filled tarts for 30-35 minutes until custard is set and lightly golden. Cool at room temperature for 10 minutes before removing from pans.
- Drizzle cooled lemon curd over the tarts, refrigerate until ready to serve.
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