Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are a delightful treat for any occasion. The creamy yogurt-based custard, sweetened with honey and fresh strawberries, is nestled in a flaky pie crust. Topped with a drizzle of homemade lemon curd, these tarts are both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a special celebration, they bring a burst of flavor that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies baking with straightforward steps, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh strawberries and homemade lemon curd elevates the flavor profile and ensures a vibrant taste.
• Versatile Dessert: These tarts can be served at various events—birthdays, picnics, or as a sweet end to dinner.
• Healthier Option: With yogurt as the base for the custard, you enjoy a lighter dessert without sacrificing flavor.
• Stunning Presentation: The beautiful layers of custard, strawberries, and lemon curd make these tarts eye-catching on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Tart pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Tart pan: Ensures your tarts have the right shape and depth for even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a light and airy custard by incorporating air into the mixture.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

• 1 3/4 cups flour
• 3/4 teaspoons sea salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons cold water

For the Custard Filling

• 2 cups strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup vanilla yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 eggs
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Curd Topping

• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• Pinch of coarse salt

How to Make Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

• In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sea salt, and sugar.
• Add chilled butter cubes and mix until crumbly.
• Stir in vanilla extract and cold water until dough forms.
• Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you roll out the pie crust.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

• On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
• Cut into circles to fit your tart pans.

Step 4: Bake the Crusts

Place rolled dough into tart pans. Prick bottoms with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Custard Filling

• In a bowl, whisk together vanilla yogurt, honey, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Pour mixture into baked tart crusts and bake again for about 25 minutes or until set.

Step 6: Prepare Homemade Lemon Curd

• In another bowl, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, sugar, lemon zest, butter cubes, and salt.
• Cook over low heat while stirring constantly until thickened (about 10 minutes).

Step 7: Assemble Tarts

Once cooled slightly, pour lemon curd over each custard tart.
Chill in refrigerator before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd!

How to Serve Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Mint leaves: Add a few fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Additional strawberries: Serve with whole or sliced strawberries on the side for extra sweetness.

Creamy Accompaniments

• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and complements the tartness.
• Vanilla ice cream: Pairing these tarts with vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast of temperatures.

Beverage Pairings

• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Sparkling water: Refreshing sparkling water with lemon makes for a light, cleansing drink alongside the tarts.

Presentation Ideas

• Miniature plates: Serve individual tarts on small plates for an elegant presentation at gatherings.
• Dessert stand: Arrange the tarts on a tiered dessert stand for an impressive display at parties.

How to Perfect Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

To ensure your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd turn out perfectly, here are some helpful tips.

• Chill your dough: Refrigerate the pie crust before baking. This helps maintain its flaky texture.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh strawberries and high-quality honey to enhance flavor.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the custard while it bakes. It should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
• Cool completely: Allow the tarts to cool fully before adding lemon curd to prevent melting.
• Make ahead: Prepare the tarts a day in advance. They taste even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

These delightful tarts pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
2. Coconut Macaroons – Chewy coconut treats provide texture contrast and tropical flair.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses pairs well, enhancing taste without overpowering it.
4. Chocolate Covered Almonds – These add a crunchy, chocolatey element that beautifully contrasts the tartness.
5. Almond Biscotti – Crunchy biscotti provide a nice textural difference, especially when dipped in coffee or tea.
6. Pistachio Ice Cream – The nutty flavor complements the strawberry and honey notes while providing creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd can be delightful, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: A flaky crust relies on cold butter. Make sure to chill the butter and water before mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough crusts. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and quality honey enhance flavor. Opt for seasonal produce for the best taste.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An inaccurate oven can affect baking times. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your tarts bake evenly.
• Skipping the lemon zest: The zest adds depth of flavor to the curd. Don’t skip this vital ingredient for that zesty punch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store tarts in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will last up to 3 days.

Freezing Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

• Wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tarts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd:

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute strawberries with berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the custard is set?

The custard should be slightly jiggly in the center but firm around the edges when it’s done baking.

What if I don’t have vanilla yogurt?

You can substitute plain yogurt or regular custard if needed, but vanilla yogurt enhances sweetness and flavor.

Can I make the lemon curd ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare lemon curd up to one week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are not only a treat for your taste buds but also offer versatility. Feel free to customize them by experimenting with different fruits or adding flavors like almond extract. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!