If you’re looking for a refreshing, tangy, and creamy dessert, then a Lemon Cream Cheese Tart is exactly what you need! This delightful dessert combines the best of both worlds: a rich, creamy filling with the zesty, bright flavor of fresh lemons. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet, this lemon tart will surely impress your guests and leave everyone asking for the recipe.
What Makes the Lemon Cream Cheese Tart Special?
The Lemon Cream Cheese Tart is a twist on the classic lemon tart, taking the usual custard-like filling and adding a layer of cream cheese for extra richness and smoothness. This combination creates a luscious filling that’s tangy yet sweet, with the creamy texture that makes every bite irresistible. Topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar and fresh lemon slices, this tart is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients for the Lemon Cream Cheese Tart
Before we jump into the step-by-step process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this perfect dessert.
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon ice water (or as needed)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream
- A pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh lemon slices (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Lemon Cream Cheese Tart
Step 1: Preparing the Tart Crust
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Add Butter: Add the cubed butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can use a pastry cutter or your fingertips for this step.
- Incorporate Egg Yolk: Add the egg yolk and mix until the dough begins to come together. If the dough is too dry, gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
- Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Carefully transfer the dough to a tart pan, pressing it into the sides and bottom. Trim any excess dough from the edges.
- Bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the tart shell with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove the parchment paper and weights, then bake for another 5 minutes to ensure the base is fully cooked. Let the crust cool completely.
Step 2: Making the Cream Cheese Filling
- Blend the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add Sugar and Eggs: Add the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Heavy Cream and Salt: Add the heavy cream and a pinch of salt to the mixture and continue to beat until the filling is light and fluffy.
- Fill the Tart Shell: Once the tart shell has cooled, pour the cream cheese filling into the tart shell. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
- Bake the Tart: Place the filled tart back into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly wobbly. The tart will firm up as it cools.
- Cool Completely: Allow the tart to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to set the filling.
Step 3: Garnishing and Serving
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, dust the top of the tart with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Add Fresh Lemon Slices: Garnish with fresh lemon slices or wedges for an added touch of color and flavor.
- Serve: Slice the tart into wedges and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Tart
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it can have a different taste.
- Let the Tart Cool Completely: Let the tart cool completely before refrigerating it. This will prevent the filling from separating and ensure the crust stays crisp.
- Chill the Tart: For the best texture and flavor, allow the tart to chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours. The filling will set properly and make slicing easier.
- Customize Your Tart: You can add a few tablespoons of lemon curd on top of the cream cheese filling before baking for an extra burst of lemon flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Tart
This Lemon Cream Cheese Tart is a great balance of tart and sweet, with the creamy richness of cream cheese and the bright, refreshing citrus of lemon. It’s perfect for spring or summer, but it’s so delicious that you’ll want to enjoy it year-round. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress your guests or a simple treat for your family, this tart is sure to be a hit!
Conclusion
If you love lemon desserts, this Lemon Cream Cheese Tart is a must-try! It’s easy to make, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious. The combination of creamy, tangy lemon filling with a buttery, flaky crust will satisfy all your sweet cravings. Try it out today and enjoy a delightful dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!