There’s something truly magical about the combination of blueberries and lemons. The tartness of the lemon perfectly complements the sweet juiciness of blueberries, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that highlights this classic flavor duo in a delightful and elegant way: Blueberry Lemon Tartlets!
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Why You’ll Love These Blueberry Lemon Tartlets
These tartlets are not only adorable in their bite-sized form, but they’re also bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The crumbly, buttery tart shell provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy lemon filling, topped with a juicy blueberry compote. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile: perfect for a casual brunch, a fancy tea party, or a sweet end to a cozy dinner.
And let’s not forget the smell when they’re baking—the warm, citrusy aroma of lemon and blueberry wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
The Taste
Imagine biting into a crisp, buttery crust that melts in your mouth, followed by a velvety lemon filling that’s just the right balance of sweet and tart. The blueberry topping, lightly sweetened and bursting with fresh berry flavor, adds a luscious finish. Anything but boring! These tartlets offer a symphony of textures and flavors that will make you crave just one more… and another after that.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Individual Portions: These tartlets are pre-portioned, making them perfect for gatherings.
- Bursting with Flavor: Fresh blueberries and zesty lemon create a flavor-packed dessert.
- Easy to Make: Though they look fancy, these tartlets are simple enough for any home baker.
- Customizable: You can add your own spin with toppings or flavor variations!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these Blueberry Lemon Tartlets:
For the Tart Shell
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1–2 tbsp ice-cold water (as needed)
For the Lemon Filling
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For the Blueberry Compote
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water
Tools You’ll Need
- Tartlet pans or muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Saucepan
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Tart Shell: Use graham cracker crumbs and melted butter if you prefer a quicker, no-roll crust.
- Lemon Filling: Add a dash of vanilla extract or swap some lemon juice for lime juice for a fun twist.
- Blueberry Compote: Replace blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
How to Make Blueberry Lemon Tartlets
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Shells
- In a large bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and mix until the dough starts to come together. If it’s too dry, add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time.
- Roll the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut out circles to fit your tartlet pans. Press the dough into the pans and prick the base with a fork.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the filling into the cooled tart shells, filling them about ¾ full.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow to cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Prepare the Blueberry Compote
- In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the blueberries start to release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Tartlets
- Spoon a small amount of blueberry compote onto each tartlet.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
What to Serve with These Tartlets
Pair these tartlets with a light tea, a crisp sparkling wine, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance their flavors. They make an excellent addition to brunch spreads alongside fresh fruit, quiches, and finger sandwiches.
Tips for Perfect Tartlets
- Blind Baking: Prick the tart shells with a fork before baking to prevent puffing.
- Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough. It helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
- Filling Consistency: The lemon filling should be smooth but not runny. Whisk it until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unfilled tart shells for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make these tartlets ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The tart shells and blueberry compote can be made a day in advance. Just assemble them before serving for maximum freshness.
Q: Can I use store-bought tart shells?
A: Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought tart shells work great. Just fill and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use other fruits for the compote?
A: Definitely! This recipe works well with strawberries, raspberries, or even a mix of berries.
Conclusion
These Blueberry Lemon Tartlets are a delectable treat that’s sure to impress anyone you serve them to. Their beautiful presentation and incredible flavor make them a dessert you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, they’re simple enough to put together without any fuss. So, go ahead and give them a try—I promise they won’t disappoint!
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love:
- Peach Galette: A rustic, easy-to-make dessert with juicy peaches.
- Peach and Blueberry Crisp: Warm, bubbly fruit topped with a crunchy oat streusel.
Share Your Creation!
Did you make these Blueberry Lemon Tartlets? I’d love to see how they turned out! Leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information (Per Tartlet)
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
Enjoy these delightful tartlets as a bright finish to any meal, and be prepared for them to become a new favorite!
