Imagine a dessert so tantalizing, so perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, that it'll have your guests begging for the recipe. This Easy Gluten-Free Lemon Tart is not just a dessert—it's a culinary masterpiece that proves gluten-free baking can be absolutely irresistible. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a silky smooth lemon filling, this French-inspired treat is about to become your new go-to dessert that will impress everyone from picky eaters to sophisticated foodies.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup gluten-free cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated and appear like wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared tart pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to create a compact, smooth crust.
- Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove and let cool for 10 minutes.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, 1 cup sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and gluten-free cornstarch until smooth and well combined. Ensure no lumps remain in the mixture.
- Pour the lemon filling directly over the pre-baked crust, ensuring an even distribution.
- Return the tart to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour. The filling will continue to set as it cools.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to firm up completely.
- Before serving, you can dust with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh lemon zest. Slice into 8 equal portions and serve chilled.
Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor—bottled juice just can't compare!
- Ensure your gluten-free graham cracker crumbs are finely ground for the smoothest crust.
- When pressing the crust, use the back of a spoon or measuring cup to create a compact, even layer.
- Don't overbake the filling—it should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cooling and chilling are crucial: let the tart cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to achieve the perfect texture.
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh lemon zest or a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.
- This tart is best served chilled, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for dinner parties or special occasions.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 110mg