Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

Introduction

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd bring a touch of elegance to any dessert table. These delicate tarts marry the gentle sweetness of honey-infused custard with the zesty brightness of lemon curd, creating a perfectly balanced bite. Each tart is crowned with fresh, juicy strawberries that add a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color, making them not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight.

I first made these tarts for a friend’s garden party, and they were an instant hit. The guests loved the interplay of flavors—the creaminess of the custard paired with the tangy punch of lemon curd and the refreshing finish of strawberries. What makes this dessert extra special is that it feels refined yet is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The tart shells can be baked ahead of time, and the custard and curd can be made in advance, leaving only assembly before serving.

These tarts are perfect for occasions like birthdays, brunches, or intimate dinner parties when you want a dessert that tastes as impressive as it looks. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just exploring your skills, Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd will bring a touch of sophistication and deliciousness to your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Discover why these Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd will win your heart:

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet, tangy, and creamy come together harmoniously.
• Elegant Presentation: Beautifully topped with strawberries for a show-stopping look.
• Homemade Lemon Curd: Adds a delightful tartness that elevates the dessert.
• Customizable Base: Use your favorite tart shells or make your own.
• Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh strawberries and lemon adds a burst of flavor.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: Easy enough for beginners but impressive for gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: A great way to introduce kids to fruit-based desserts.
• Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for brunches, afternoon tea, or dinner parties.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Components can be prepared ahead of time for easy assembly.
• Delicious Contrast: The rich custard pairs well with the zesty lemon curd and juicy strawberries.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 6 tarts
• Calories per serving: Approximately 280 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Fat: 12g, Carbohydrates: 35g

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients needed for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd:

For the Tart Shells:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tbsp cold water

Honey Custard:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Lemon Curd:

• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces

For Assembly:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Honey: Adds natural sweetness with a subtle floral note to the custard.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Provides a zesty, bright flavor that complements the custard.
• Fresh Strawberries: Juicy and sweet, adding a vibrant finish to the tarts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd:

Prepare the Tart Shells

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dough: In a food processor, combine flour and powdered sugar. Add butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg yolk and water, and pulse until dough forms.
3. Chill: Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
4. Roll and Bake: Roll out the dough and press it into tart pans. Prick the bottoms with a fork and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.

Make the Honey Custard

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk together milk, honey, and cornstarch. Place over medium heat.
2. Thicken Custard: Once warm, whisk in egg yolks. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
3. Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let cool slightly before transferring to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until chilled.

Prepare the Lemon Curd

1. Cook the Curd: In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, zest, sugar, and egg yolks. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10 minutes).
2. Add Butter: Remove from heat and stir in butter pieces until melted and smooth.
3. Cool: Transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap touching the surface. Refrigerate until set.

Assemble the Tarts

1. Fill Tart Shells: Spoon the chilled honey custard into the cooled tart shells, spreading evenly.
2. Top with Lemon Curd: Add a dollop of lemon curd on top of the custard and gently spread.
3. Garnish: Arrange fresh strawberry slices on top and add mint leaves for garnish if desired.

How to Serve

Serve Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd with these tips:

• Chilled: Best served chilled for a refreshing dessert.
• With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Accompanied by Tea: Perfect with a cup of hot tea or iced lemonade.
• Drizzle of Honey: Drizzle with additional honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Sprinkle of Powdered Sugar: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look.
• With Fresh Berries: Serve alongside other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
• At a Brunch Table: A beautiful addition to a brunch spread.
• Plated Individually: Serve each tart on individual dessert plates for a polished presentation.
• On a Cake Stand: Display on a cake stand for an impressive centerpiece.
• Paired with Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful pairing.

Additional Tips

Enhance your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd with these suggestions:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the tart shells and custard a day in advance for easier assembly.
• Storage Tips: Store assembled tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for the tart shell to cater to dietary needs.
• Thicker Custard: For a thicker custard, increase the cornstarch by 1 tbsp.
• Alternative Sweeteners: Swap honey for maple syrup if preferred.
• Flavor Boost: Add a hint of almond extract to the custard for a deeper flavor.
• Decorative Touch: Use edible flowers for a fancy presentation.
• Quick Version: Use pre-made tart shells to save time.
• Temperature Control: Avoid overcooking the lemon curd to prevent it from curdling.
• Custard Texture: Strain the custard if lumps form during cooking for a smoother result.

Recipe Variations

Try these twists on Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd:

• Berry Medley Tarts: Use a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the tarts.
• Coconut-Lemon Tarts: Add shredded coconut to the lemon curd for a tropical flavor.
• Honey-Lavender Custard: Infuse the custard with dried lavender for a floral twist.
• Mini Tarts: Make mini versions for a bite-sized treat perfect for parties.
• Savory-Sweet: Add a sprinkle of sea salt flakes on top for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Cream Cheese Layer: Add a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese before the custard.
• Graham Crust: Use a graham cracker crust instead of traditional tart dough.
• Fruit Gelée Top: Add a thin layer of strawberry gelée for extra shine.
• Nut Topping: Sprinkle with chopped pistachios or almonds for added crunch.

Freezing and Storage

Store your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd with care:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze tart shells separately for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing assembled tarts as the custard may separate.
• Thawing: Thaw tart shells at room temperature before assembling.

Special Equipment

Ensure you have these tools on hand:

• Tart Pans: For shaping the tarts.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Saucepan: For making custard and lemon curd.
• Whisk: For smooth mixing of custard and curd.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out tart dough.
• Food Processor (Optional): For easier dough preparation.
• Zester: To zest lemons efficiently.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Plastic Wrap: For covering custard and lemon curd during chilling.
• Cooling Rack: To cool baked tart shells.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought tart shells?
   Yes, store-bought tart shells can save time and work well for this recipe.
2. Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
   Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives.
3. What type of strawberries work best?
   Fresh, ripe strawberries offer the best flavor and texture.
4. Can I make this without lemon curd?
   Yes, you can skip the lemon curd or replace it with your favorite fruit preserve.
5. How do I prevent the custard from forming a skin?
   Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the custard while chilling.
6. Can I make these tarts gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
7. How far in advance can I make the lemon curd?
   Lemon curd can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
8. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Fresh strawberries are recommended, but frozen ones can be used if thawed and drained.
9. What other fruits can I use?
   Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are excellent alternatives.
10. Can I make mini tarts instead?
    Yes, simply adjust the baking time for smaller tart shells.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are a stunning dessert that beautifully blends rich, honey-flavored custard with tangy lemon curd and sweet, juicy strawberries. The delicate layers of flavor and the vibrant presentation make these tarts perfect for any celebration, gathering, or simply as an indulgent treat at home. Each bite offers a delightful balance of creaminess from the custard, a refreshing tang from the lemon curd, and a burst of natural sweetness from the strawberries.

These tarts are as visually appealing as they are delicious, making them a memorable addition to any special occasion. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday, dinner party, or just a cozy family dessert night, they are sure to impress your guests. With their rich texture and fresh flavors, Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Give this recipe a try and let the gorgeous layers and flavors shine! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing how your desserts turn out! Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!