If you’re craving a dessert that bursts with bright, refreshing citrus flavor yet keeps things delightfully simple, this Easy Crustless Lemon Tart Recipe is about to become your new best friend. No fussy crust to fuss over—just a luscious, creamy lemon filling that sets beautifully and shines with every bite. It’s tangy, sweet, and smooth with a hint of vanilla and buttery richness, making it perfect for any occasion when you want something special without the work. Trust me, once you try this tart, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with anything else!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward pantry staples and fresh lemon juice, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. These ingredients blend together into a silky, vibrantly lemony custard that sets up just right without a crust.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the tart and balances the lemon’s natural acidity perfectly.
- Fresh lemon juice: The star of the show, providing that bright, zesty tang everyone loves.
- Large eggs: Bind the filling and give it that smooth, custard-like texture when baked.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel.
- Lemon zest: Packs an extra punch of lemon flavor and aromatic brightness.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a subtle sweetness that enhances but doesn’t overpower.
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to elevate all the flavors and keep the sweetness in check.
- Powdered sugar (optional): For a pretty finishing touch that adds a hint of extra sweetness.
How to Make Easy Crustless Lemon Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan or pie dish well with butter or cooking spray to ensure your tart can slide out easily after baking. This step may seem small, but it’s critical to help your tart come out perfectly clean and intact.
Step 2: Whisk Together Sugar, Eggs, and Lemon Juice
In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and eggs. Whisk these together vigorously until the mixture is smooth and even. This blending starts the magic, marrying sweet and tart with the richness of eggs to create a silky custard base.
Step 3: Add Melted Butter, Zest, Vanilla, and Salt
Pour in the melted butter, then add your lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture looks glossy. The butter adds a luscious texture while the vanilla balances and deepens the citrus notes.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour your lemon mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the surface so it bakes evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for the edges to turn a nice light golden color while the center should still jiggle slightly—it will continue to set as it cools.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Once baked, let your tart come to room temperature before popping it into the refrigerator for at least two hours. This chilling step is key for getting that perfect firm yet delicate texture that makes this Easy Crustless Lemon Tart Recipe so irresistible.
Step 6: Finish with a Dusting of Powdered Sugar and Serve
Before serving, if you like, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar for a classic touch of elegance and sweetness. Slice it up and get ready to enjoy this citrus treat that’s just bursting with flavor.
How to Serve Easy Crustless Lemon Tart Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like thin lemon slices, fresh mint leaves, or a few berries make great companions to this tart. They add visual appeal and extra brightness that complements the lemon’s tang perfectly.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to introduce a creamy contrast. For something lighter, fresh fruit salad or a handful of toasted almonds can add texture and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices in small dessert bowls drizzled with a berry coulis or honey. For a bit of fun, top with edible flowers or a dusting of finely chopped pistachios to add color and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Crustless Lemon Tart Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover slices wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Because this tart is best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Simply let it come to room temperature briefly before enjoying if you prefer it less cold.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is always preferable because it offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work. Just choose a high-quality, 100% lemon juice with no added preservatives for the best results.
Why is my tart still jiggly after baking?
It’s normal for the center of this crustless lemon tart to jiggle slightly when you take it out of the oven. It will firm up as it cools and chills, setting into that perfect custard texture.
Can I make this tart gluten-free?
Absolutely! Since this is a crustless tart, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for those avoiding gluten.
Is it possible to substitute sugar with a natural sweetener?
You can use honey or maple syrup but keep in mind it will alter the flavor profile and may affect the tart’s texture slightly. Adjust sweetness to taste and liquid amounts accordingly.
How do I prevent cracking on the surface of the tart?
To minimize cracking, avoid overbaking and let the tart cool slowly at room temperature before chilling. A gentle, even bake helps maintain a smooth, crack-free surface.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crustless Lemon Tart Recipe is one of those magical desserts that delivers tons of flavor with minimal effort and no crust drama. Whether you serve it at a casual family gathering or a special celebration, it’s sure to impress and delight. So go ahead, grab those lemons, and treat yourself to a slice of sunshine—you won’t regret it!
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Easy Crustless Lemon Tart Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Crustless Lemon Tart is a bright and refreshing dessert that perfectly balances tangy lemon flavor with a smooth, custard-like texture. Made without a crust, this tart is simple to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it a quick and delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Tart
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Serving (Optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan or pie dish thoroughly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix Sugar, Eggs, and Lemon Juice: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, whole eggs, and fresh lemon juice until the mixture becomes smooth and homogeneous.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Incorporate the melted unsalted butter, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the bowl. Mix everything until fully combined and the batter is uniform.
- Pour Mixture into Pan: Carefully pour the lemon batter into the prepared tart pan, then smooth out the top using a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the Tart: Place the tart pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The tart should be set and the edges lightly golden. The center might still jiggle slightly but will firm up as it cools.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the tart to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until completely firm and cold.
- Serve: When ready to serve, dust the tart with powdered sugar if desired. Slice into portions and enjoy the bright, citrusy tartness!
Notes
- Be careful not to overbake the tart to avoid cracking; it should still have a slight jiggle in the center when removed from the oven.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor, so avoid using bottled lemon juice if possible.
- The tart is best served chilled but can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative of the same quantity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
