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lemon meringue tarts recipe

Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts with Toasted Meringue

Owen ParkerOwen Parker
These Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts are the perfect combination of tangy lemon filling and fluffy toasted meringue, creating an irresistible dessert.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 tarts
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Electric Mixer
  • 1 Saucepan medium
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 tart pans mini

Ingredients
  

Tart Shells

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter chilled and diced
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp cold water

Lemon Filling

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • 4 large egg yolks beaten
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Meringue

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the tart pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough holds together. Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit the tart pans. Press into the pans and chill for 15 minutes.
  • Once chilled, prick the base of each shell with a fork. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool.

Lemon Filling

  • In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbling. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and zest. Gradually whisk in egg yolks, then return to the heat for a further minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and add butter, stirring until melted.
  • Pour the lemon filling into the prepared tart shells, filling them to just below the rim. Allow to cool slightly while you prepare the meringue.

Meringue

  • Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  • Spoon or pipe meringue onto each tart, ensuring it covers the filling completely and seals to the crust. Use the back of a spoon to create decorative peaks.
  • Place the tarts back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned. Remove from oven and allow to cool before serving.

Serving

  • Serve the mini lemon meringue tarts at room temperature or slightly chilled. They are perfect on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage

  • Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure your mixing bowl is clean and dry for the best meringue. Ingredient Substitutions: Try using Meyer lemons for a sweeter flavor. How to Serve: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the tart shells and lemon filling in advance, and assemble with the meringue just before serving.
Keyword easy lemon desserts, lemon meringue tarts, lemon pie filling recipes