Salut! As a self-proclaimed dessert enthusiast, I have to say that French desserts hold a special place in my heart (and my stomach). But if you’re new to the world of French patisserie, all the fancy names and complex techniques can be a bit intimidating. That’s why I’m here to share some of the best French desserts for beginners.
From the classic crème brûlée to the simple yet delicious madeleines, these desserts are not only easy to make but also sure to impress. I’ll be sharing my personal tips and tricks for achieving that perfect flavor and texture, so even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can still feel like a master pastry chef.
Macarons
Learn how to make the perfect macaron shells, from making the meringue to attaining the proper batter consistency. We’ll go through how to pipe consistent circles, let the shells rest for best texture, and get that coveted “foot” during baking. Discover the significance of macaronage, the delicate technique of folding the dry ingredients into the meringue, and how it contributes to the smooth and airy texture of macarons.
Explore the world of macaron fillings and let your imagination run wild with a range of flavors and textures. We’ll provide recipes and ideas for classic fillings like ganache, buttercream, and fruit preserves, as well as unusual flavors like salted caramel, matcha, and lavender-infused cream. Learn the skill of combining complementing tastes to produce delicious dishes.
Navigate the potential challenges of macaron-making with troubleshooting tips and expert advice. We’ll address common issues such as hollow shells, cracked tops, or uneven feet, and provide solutions to help you achieve consistent results. Learn about the importance of accurate measurements, proper macaronage, and the role of temperature and humidity in the baking process.
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup almond flour
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Food coloring (optional)
- Filling of your choice (e.g., buttercream, ganache, fruit preserves)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and almond flour. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar to the egg whites, a little at a time, while continuing to beat. Increase the speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form. The mixture should be glossy and hold its shape.
- If desired, add the vanilla extract and food coloring to the egg white mixture and gently fold until combined.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and almond flour mixture to the egg whites. Gently fold the mixture using a spatula until the batter is smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the batter.
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Leave some space between each circle as the macarons will spread slightly.
- Tap the baking sheet firmly on the counter a few times to remove any air bubbles. This helps the macarons to form their characteristic smooth tops.
- Let the macarons sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, until a slight skin forms on the surface. This helps create a nice crust and shape during baking.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Bake the macarons for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are set and slightly firm to the touch. Avoid browning the macarons.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the macarons cool completely on the sheet before removing them.
- Once the macarons are cool, carefully remove them from the parchment paper or silicone mat.
- Pair the macarons of similar size and shape. Spread or pipe your desired filling onto one macaron shell and sandwich it with another shell.
- Store the filled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to soften.
Crème Brûlée
Discover how to showcase your Crème Brûlée with grace and elegance. We’ll go through how to use the correct ramekins or plates to highlight the dessert’s elegance. Discover garnishing options that enhance aesthetic appeal, such as fresh berries, mint leaves, or a coating of powdered sugar. We’ll also talk about the ideal serving temperature, so you can enjoy the contrast between the chilly custard and the heated caramelized sugar.
Explore flavor combinations and innovative tweaks to expand your Crème Brûlée repertoire. We’ll offer options for adding depth and complexity to the original recipe by introducing ingredients like chocolate, coffee, or seasonal fruits. Allow your culinary creativity to go wild as you experiment with various tastes and make your own unique variants of this popular dessert.
Crème Brûlée is a rich dessert that mixes creamy pleasure with a subtle caramelized crisp. You can make a Crème Brûlée that is the ultimate of dessert perfection using the skills and ideas presented in this blog article. So put on your apron, flavor your custard, and master the art of caramelizing sugar. Enjoy the silky smoothness and delightful crunch of this classic French delicacy. Celebrate Crème Brûlée’s absolute elegance and luxury, and savor the moment when you bite into its caramelized crust. Good appetite!
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing the top)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place a baking dish or roasting pan filled halfway with water on the oven rack. This will serve as a water bath for the crème brûlée.
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and egg yolks until well combined and slightly pale in color.
- Slowly pour the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pouring jug or bowl. This helps remove any lumps or air bubbles from the mixture.
- Divide the custard mixture evenly among individual ramekins or oven-safe dishes.
- Place the ramekins in the prepared water bath in the oven. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
- Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the top of each crème brûlée.
- Caramelize the sugar using a culinary torch, moving the flame back and forth over the sugar until it melts and turns golden brown. Alternatively, you can place the ramekins under a broiler for a few minutes until the sugar caramelizes.
- Allow the caramelized sugar to cool and harden for a minute or two before serving.
Chocolate Soufflé
Immerse yourself in the world of chocolate with Chocolate Soufflé, a divine creation. This elegant and indulgent classic French delicacy enchants taste senses with its delicate texture and rich chocolate flavor. We’ll walk you through the steps of preparing the ideal Chocolate Soufflé, from perfecting the airy rise to reaching the perfect mix of sweetness and indulgence. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure and see the wonder of a beautifully raised Chocolate Soufflé.
Learn the fundamentals of making a light and fluffy soufflé base. We’ll go through how to melt chocolate to a velvety texture and incorporate it into a smooth and tasty foundation. Learn why properly beaten egg whites are important and how to fold them into the chocolate mixture for a fluffy and delicate texture.
Find out ways to serve and present your Chocolate Soufflé with elegance and delicacy. We’ll go over how to sprinkle with powdered sugar, decorate with fresh berries or mint leaves, and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Discover how a nicely presented soufflé may be transformed into a work of culinary beauty.
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the ramekins
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for coating the ramekins
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease the bottoms and sides of four 6-ounce (180 ml) ramekins with butter. Sprinkle granulated sugar into each ramekin, rotating them to coat the bottoms and sides. Tap out any excess sugar.
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Place the bowl over a pan of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir the chocolate and butter until melted and smooth. Remove the bowl from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until pale and thick.
- Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly, until well combined.
- In another bowl, using a clean electric mixer, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. The peaks should hold their shape, but not be overly stiff.
- Gently fold about one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until no streaks remain. Be gentle to avoid deflating the egg whites.
- Divide the soufflé batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling them about three-fourths full.
- Run your thumb around the inside rim of each ramekin to create a slight indentation. This helps the soufflé rise evenly.
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 12-14 minutes, or until the soufflés have puffed up and the tops are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Dust the tops of the soufflés with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve immediately with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Chocolate Meringue
Experiment with unique flavor combinations to take your Chocolate Meringue to new heights. We’ll give you suggestions for enhancing the chocolate experience with extra flavors like espresso, caramel, or citrus zest. Let your creativity go wild with classic combos and unexpected twists to create a really unique and delightful dessert.
Master the technique of shaping and baking your Chocolate Meringue for a stunning finished product. We’ll show you how to make anything from individual nests to stacked cakes, as well as how to get that ideal golden-brown outside while keeping the interior soft and pillowy. Learn the finest baking and chilling techniques for meringue to achieve a delicious texture and appearance.
Unleash your creativity as you explore ways to serve and garnish your Chocolate Meringue. We’ll provide suggestions for complementary accompaniments, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Discover how a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scattering of chocolate shavings can elevate the visual appeal and add that finishing touch to your masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips, finely chopped
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, berries
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until frothy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, about 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Increase the speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
- Sift the cocoa powder over the meringue and add the vanilla extract. Gently fold them into the meringue using a spatula until well combined.
- Fold in the finely chopped chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Spoon or pipe dollops of the chocolate meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, creating individual meringue cookies or a large meringue base for a pavlova.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes, or until the meringues are dry and crisp on the outside. The baking time may vary, so keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside the oven with the door slightly ajar. This helps to prevent cracking.
- Once cooled, remove the meringues from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve the chocolate meringue cookies as they are or use them to assemble a pavlova by layering them with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and berries.
Tarte Tatin
Discover the intriguing history and lovely narrative of Tarte Tatin. We’ll learn about the Tatin sisters and how this famous dessert came to be. Investigate Tarte Tatin’s cultural importance and lasting popularity as a favorite French delicacy.
Uncover the best way to caramelize apples to perfection for your Tarte Tatin. We’ll show you how to choose the perfect apples, such as firm and somewhat sour kinds like Granny Smith or Braeburn, and walk you through the steps of making a decadent caramel sauce. Investigate caramelization processes to provide a rich, golden hue that complements the flavor of the apples.Unveil the art of serving Tarte Tatin in all its glory. We’ll share ideas for garnishing your masterpiece with a dusting of powdered sugar, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Explore the perfect accompaniments, such as a dollop of whipped cream or a side of crème fraîche, that will enhance the flavors and elevate the dessert to new heights.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry, thawed
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9 or 10-inch ovenproof skillet or tarte Tatin dish, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the melted butter and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep golden brown. Be careful not to burn the caramel.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and carefully arrange the apple slices in a single layer on top of the caramel, slightly overlapping them.
- Return the skillet to low heat and cook the apples in the caramel for about 10-15 minutes, or until they start to soften and the caramel thickens.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit the size of the skillet or dish. Place the rolled-out pastry over the caramelized apples, tucking in the edges around the apples.
- Use a fork to poke a few holes in the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Transfer the skillet or dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Place a serving plate or platter on top of the skillet and carefully invert the tart onto the plate. Be cautious as the caramel may still be hot.
- Serve the Tarte Tatin warm, either as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Chocolate Mousse
Learn why it’s critical to use high-quality chocolate in your Chocolate Mousse. We’ll go through the many varieties of chocolate and their flavor characteristics to help you make an informed selection. Whether you choose dark, milk, or white chocolate, we’ll show you how to make the richness of the chocolate come through in every spoonful.
Try out with different flavor combinations to take your Chocolate Mousse to new heights. We’ll expose you to new flavors that go well with chocolate, such as coffee, citrus zest, or a dash of liqueur. We’ll encourage you to infuse your mousse with diverse tastes that will excite your taste buds, from traditional pairings to surprising twists.
Enjoy a scoop of handmade Chocolate Mousse, a delicacy that blends elegance and luxury. You can produce a silky, melt-in-your-mouth experience that will wow your family and friends with the knowledge and techniques offered in this blog article. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner chocolatier, and embark on a gastronomic journey that honors the timeless delight of Chocolate Mousse. Prepare to experience the ultimate chocolate treat that will leave you wanting more. Enjoy the decadence and utter delight of this traditional dessert. Good appetite!
Ingredients:
- 6 ounces (170 grams) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, fresh berries
Instructions:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together. You can use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until light and creamy.
- Gradually whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg yolk mixture until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a clean bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold about one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until no streaks remain. Be gentle to preserve the airiness of the mousse.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well combined.
- Divide the chocolate mousse mixture among serving bowls or glasses. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Before serving, you can garnish the chocolate mousse with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries if desired.
Clafoutis
Master the key elements of a perfect Clafoutis batter. We’ll guide you through the process of creating a silky smooth mixture, highlighting the importance of using fresh, seasonal fruits. From the role of flour and eggs to the addition of flavorings like vanilla or almond extract, we’ll share the secrets to achieving a custard-like consistency that sets the foundation for a delightful Clafoutis.
Experiment with different fruit fillings for your Clafoutis. While sweet cherries are traditionally used in Clafoutis, we invite you to experiment with various fruits such as berries, stone fruits, or even apples and pears. We’ll talk about the best fruits for Clafoutis, how to prepare them, and how their flavors change during the baking process.
Explore unique flavor combinations and trendy tweaks to take your Clafoutis to the next level. We’ll provide ideas for combining unusual ingredients like chocolate, almonds, or spices to give this traditional dish a modern touch. Allow your creativity to run wild as you experiment with tastes and wow your taste buds with creative Clafoutis creations.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 grams) fresh cherries, pitted
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round baking dish or pie dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Arrange the pitted cherries in a single layer in the greased baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until you have a smooth batter. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Pour the batter over the cherries in the baking dish, ensuring the cherries are evenly covered.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed and golden brown on top. It should be set in the center but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove the clafoutis from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The clafoutis will deflate slightly as it cools.
- Dust the top of the clafoutis with powdered sugar.
- Serve the cherry clafoutis warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Crêpes
Discover the savory side of Crêpes with a variety of tasty fillings and accompaniments. We’ll go over recipes and ideas for savory Crêpes including ham and cheese, spinach and feta, and mushroom and caramelized onion. Discover how to make these flexible pancakes into a filling supper that will surprise your family and friends.
Explore how to dress up your Crêpes with simple yet eye-catching garnishes. We’ll look at ways to make attractive presentations, including folding Crêpes into graceful triangles or rolling them into cylinders. We’ll also offer suggestions for topping your Crêpes, such as powdered sugar, chocolate sauce, or a dab of flavored whipped cream.
With each bite, experience the delicate elegance of Crêpes and transport yourself to a delightful French cafe. Whether you favor sweet or spicy, a Crêpe masterpiece awaits to tempt your taste senses. You’ll become a Crêpe expert with our help and inspiration, stunning your loved ones with these thin, delectable pancakes. So take a whisk, fire a pan, and let the scent of freshly made Crêpes fill your house. Enjoy the simple pleasure of eating these adaptable delicacies while embarking on a gastronomic voyage that highlights the finest of French cuisine. Good appetite!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sweet crêpes) or 1/2 teaspoon salt (for savory crêpes)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Additional butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar (for sweet crêpes) or salt (for savory crêpes).
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the milk and melted butter, and whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly, until you have a smooth batter. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This allows the gluten in the flour to relax and results in tender crêpes.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or crêpe pan over medium heat. Grease the pan with a small amount of butter or cooking spray.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the center of the pan. Quickly tilt and swirl the pan to spread the batter into a thin, even layer.
- Cook the crêpe for about 1-2 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and the center is set. Use a spatula to flip the crêpe and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute on the other side.
- Transfer the cooked crêpe to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining batter. Stir the batter before pouring each crêpe, as it may settle during resting.
- Stack the cooked crêpes on a plate as you go, placing a sheet of parchment or wax paper between each one to prevent sticking.
- Serve the crêpes warm with your desired fillings and toppings. Popular options include Nutella, fresh fruits, whipped cream, jam, powdered sugar, or savory fillings like cheese, ham, or spinach.
Madeleines
Discover the basic ingredients and processes that make Madeleines so special. We’ll walk you through the steps of making a light and airy batter flavored with vanilla or lemon zest. Learn how to make the ideal shell shape and that distinctive golden-brown crust. We’ll discuss techniques and tactics for making Madeleines that equal those from a French patisserie, from chilling the mixture to using the appropriate molds.
While basic Madeleines are delicious on their own, we’ll also experiment with flavor variants to give this favorite dessert a new spin. Consider chocolate-dipped Madeleines, fragrant lavender-infused Madeleines, or exotic tastes such as matcha or Earl Grey tea. Learn how to experiment with ingredients to make your own one-of-a-kind Madeleine masterpieces.
Madeleines are best served warm from the oven, but we’ll show you how to keep them to preserve their delicate texture and flavor. We’ll give suggestions for optimal storage and reheating strategies, whether you want to consume them that day or save them for later.
Ingredients:
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a madeleine pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the melted butter and granulated sugar together until well combined.
- Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough madeleines.
- Spoon the batter into the greased madeleine pan, filling each shell about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the madeleines are golden brown around the edges and spring back when lightly touched.
- Remove the madeleines from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, you can dust the madeleines with powdered sugar for a decorative touch, if desired.
- Serve the madeleines with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
French Lemon Pie
Absorb yourself in the enchantment of French Lemon Pie as we investigate its origins and role in French culinary traditions. Discover the importance of citrus in French cuisine and how it adds a lively touch to sweets. Discover why French Lemon Pie has become a renowned classic, enticing dessert lovers with its bright and tart flavor profile.
Learn how to make a flaky, buttery crust that matches the bright lemon filling wonderfully. We’ll walk you through the stages of preparing a handmade crust, including advice for getting the correct texture and baking it to perfection. Learn how to incorporate cold butter, select the correct flour, and achieve a delicate balance of softness and structure.
Learn how to prepare a zesty and silky lemon filling that will make your taste buds dance. We’ll provide a great recipe for lemon custard as well as ideas for getting the ideal mix of acidity and sweetness. Learn how to get the most flavor out of fresh lemons and infuse the filling with a blast of citrus sweetness.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1-2 tablespoons ice water (as needed)
For the lemon filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
For the crust:
- In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of ice water. Gradually add the egg mixture to the food processor while pulsing. Continue to pulse until the dough comes together. If needed, add more ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork.
- Place a sheet of parchment paper over the crust and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
For the lemon filling:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.
- Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream to the egg mixture. Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the lemon filling into the cooled tart crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch. The edges may be slightly browned.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to fully set.
- Once chilled, the pie is ready to be served. You can garnish it with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries if desired.

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