Easy Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd and Fresh Strawberries

There is something truly magical about a dessert that brings together multiple textures and flavors in one bite. These Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd do exactly that! The crisp, buttery tart shells hold a creamy and lightly sweetened honey custard, which is then topped with a bright, tangy lemon curd. To finish, fresh strawberries add a juicy, fruity touch that makes each tart as beautiful as it is delicious.

This recipe is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, whether you’re hosting a brunch, tea party, or simply indulging in an afternoon treat. The combination of honey and lemon creates a natural balance of sweetness and acidity, making each bite rich yet refreshing. Plus, the individual-sized tarts make serving easy and elegant, allowing everyone to enjoy their own little piece of dessert heaven.

I first made these tarts for a family gathering, and they disappeared within minutes! The contrast of the smooth honey custard and the bright citrusy lemon curd was an instant hit, and my guests couldn’t stop raving about the buttery, flaky tart shells. Since then, this has become my go-to dessert whenever I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you love desserts that are light yet indulgent, creamy yet crisp, and sweet yet tangy, then this recipe is for you. Best of all, it’s simple to make with basic ingredients you probably already have at home. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Custard Tarts Recipe

These Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are more than just visually stunning—they are bursting with flavor and texture! Here are a few reasons why you’ll absolutely love this recipe:

• Perfect balance of flavors: The combination of honey custard and lemon curd creates a beautiful contrast of sweet and tart flavors. The strawberries on top add an extra layer of freshness that makes the tarts even more irresistible.
• Buttery and crisp tart shells: The homemade tart shells are incredibly flaky, buttery, and crisp, creating the perfect vessel for the creamy fillings.
• Easy to make: This recipe may look fancy, but each step is simple and approachable. Even if you’ve never made custard or curd before, I’ll guide you through the process with easy-to-follow instructions.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the tart shells, custard, and lemon curd in advance, making it a stress-free dessert for entertaining.
• Great for all occasions: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a homemade treat, these tarts are perfect.

If you’re a fan of desserts that are light yet creamy, elegant yet easy to make, and bursting with fruity flavors, this is the recipe for you!

Health Benefits of these Honey Custard Tarts

While desserts are often considered indulgent, this recipe has a few health benefits that make it a better option than many store-bought sweets.

• Honey as a natural sweetener: Unlike refined sugar, honey contains antioxidants and has antibacterial properties. It also has a more complex flavor that enhances the custard without being overly sweet.
• Lemon juice for vitamin C: The lemon curd is packed with fresh lemon juice, which provides a good dose of vitamin C, helping boost immunity and improve skin health.
• Dairy for calcium and protein: The custard filling contains milk and egg yolks, both of which are excellent sources of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins.
• Egg yolks for healthy fats: Egg yolks are rich in healthy fats and essential nutrients like choline, which is important for brain function and metabolism.
• Strawberries for antioxidants: Fresh strawberries are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, making them a nutritious and delicious topping.

While this dessert is still a treat, it’s one that brings a bit of nutritional value along with its delightful flavors!

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 tarts
• Calories per serving: Approximately 280 kcal
• Macronutrient Breakdown:
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 12g

Ingredients List

For the Tart Shells

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Honey Custard Filling

• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Curd

• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 large egg yolks
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For Topping

• Fresh sliced strawberries
• Mint leaves (optional for garnish)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tart Dough

1. In a food processor, combine flour, butter, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough begins to come together. Avoid adding too much water, as it can make the crust tough.
3. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Bake the Tart Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into circles to fit your tart pans. Press the dough into each pan.
3. Dock the dough by poking it with a fork, then place parchment paper and pie weights (or dry beans) on top.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Custard

1. Heat milk and honey in a saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Let the custard cool slightly before pouring into the baked tart shells. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Curd

1. In a saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, egg yolks, and sugar.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until smooth. Let cool slightly before using.

Step 5: Assemble the Tarts

1. Spoon lemon curd over the chilled honey custard layer.
2. Top each tart with fresh strawberry slices and garnish with mint leaves if desired.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy!

How to Serve these Honey Custard Tarts

These Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are stunning on their own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate their presentation and make them even more impressive. Whether you’re serving them for a formal gathering or enjoying them as a casual dessert, here are some creative serving ideas:

Classic Presentation

• Arrange the tarts on a serving platter with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant touch.
• Garnish with a sprig of mint for a pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the strawberries and lemon curd.

For Extra Creaminess

• Serve each tart with a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone to enhance the richness of the custard.
• Drizzle a little warm honey over the top for added sweetness and shine.

For a Fancy Touch

• Decorate the tops with edible flowers like pansies or violas to make them look like bakery-style treats.
• Pipe small rosettes of meringue on top and lightly toast them with a kitchen torch for a lemon meringue tart twist.

With Ice Cream or Sorbet

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Serve with lemon or strawberry sorbet for an extra burst of fruitiness and a refreshing balance to the richness of the tart.

For a Brunch Spread

• These tarts make a fantastic addition to a brunch table alongside fruit salads, croissants, and fresh juices.
• Pair with a cup of hot tea or iced coffee for the perfect morning or afternoon treat.

However you decide to serve them, these tarts are guaranteed to impress. Their buttery crust, creamy honey custard, and tangy lemon curd make them an unforgettable dessert for any occasion.

Pairing Suggestions of these Honey Custard Tarts

Since these tarts have a balanced combination of sweetness and tanginess, they pair well with a variety of beverages and complementary foods. Here are some great pairing options:

Drinks to Pair With

• Tea: The bright citrus flavors of the lemon curd go beautifully with Earl Grey, chamomile, or green tea. The floral notes of tea enhance the natural sweetness of the honey custard.
• Coffee: A latte, cappuccino, or cold brew coffee pairs wonderfully with these tarts, as the richness of the coffee complements the buttery crust.
• Sparkling water with fruit infusions: If you want a light and refreshing pairing, try a sparkling water with lemon slices, mint, or berries.
• Homemade lemonade: A glass of fresh lemonade brings out the citrus flavors in the curd while keeping the pairing light and refreshing.

Food Pairings

• Chocolate truffles: The deep richness of dark chocolate truffles contrasts beautifully with the tangy and fruity elements of the tart.
• Almond biscotti: The nutty crunch of almond biscotti is a perfect textural contrast to the soft, creamy filling of the tarts.
• Berry compote: Serve these tarts with a side of blueberry or raspberry compote for an extra burst of fruitiness.
• Cheese board: If serving as part of a larger dessert spread, include them on a cheese board with brie, goat cheese, and honeycomb for a sophisticated touch.

The versatility of these tarts makes them easy to pair with different flavors, whether you’re in the mood for something creamy, crunchy, or refreshing.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storing the Tarts

Since these tarts contain custard and lemon curd, they must be stored properly to maintain their freshness:

• Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If stacking them, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent the tops from getting ruined.
• Avoid storing them at room temperature for extended periods, as the custard and curd can spoil.

Freezing the Tarts

While the tart shells can be frozen, the honey custard and lemon curd do not freeze well due to their delicate textures. Here’s how to freeze the tart shells:

• Bake the tart shells as directed and let them cool completely.
• Place them in a ziplock bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• When ready to use, thaw at room temperature before filling.

Reheating the Tarts

There’s no need to reheat the tarts since they are best served chilled or at room temperature. However, if you want a warm tart shell:

• Place the empty tart shells in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes before filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Overworking the Tart Dough

When making the tart crust, avoid over-mixing the dough. Overworking it will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough and chewy crust instead of a tender and flaky one.

2. Not Chilling the Dough

Skipping the chilling step can cause the tart shells to shrink or lose their shape while baking. Always refrigerate the dough before rolling it out to maintain a crisp and sturdy crust.

3. Not Tempering the Eggs for the Custard

Adding hot milk too quickly to the egg yolks can scramble them. To prevent this, pour the milk in slowly while whisking continuously. This process, called tempering, ensures a smooth and creamy custard.

4. Overcooking the Lemon Curd

Lemon curd thickens as it cools, so don’t overcook it. If it becomes too thick in the pan, it may turn grainy instead of smooth and silky.

5. Not Letting the Custard Set Properly

If you rush the chilling process, the custard may not set properly. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before adding the lemon curd.

Pro Tips

To make these tarts even more delicious and foolproof, here are some expert tips:

1. Use Cold Butter for the Crust

Cold butter ensures a flaky texture. If your butter starts to soften, pop the dough in the fridge for 10 minutes before rolling it out.

2. Strain the Lemon Curd

For the silkiest lemon curd, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after cooking to remove any bits of cooked egg.

3. Use Fresh Lemons

Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can have a more acidic, artificial taste that won’t give the same bright citrusy notes.

4. Toast the Tart Shells for Extra Crispness

If you prefer an even crispier crust, bake the tart shells for an extra 2-3 minutes after removing the pie weights.

5. Let the Tarts Sit at Room Temperature Before Serving

If you’ve stored them in the fridge, let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to fully develop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought tart shells?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made tart shells. However, homemade crust has a much better flavor and texture.

2. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave syrup work well as substitutes, though they may slightly alter the flavor.

3. How do I prevent a soggy tart crust?

To prevent sogginess, you can brush the inside of the baked tart shell with melted chocolate before adding the custard. This creates a moisture barrier.

4. Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the tart shells, custard, and lemon curd in advance. Assemble the tarts just before serving for the best texture.

5. Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Definitely! Raspberries, blueberries, or even candied citrus slices would work beautifully.

Conclusion & Call to Action

These Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are a delightful combination of buttery crust, creamy honey custard, and tangy lemon curd. They are easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and completely irresistible.

I’d love to see how your tarts turn out! Share your photos and tag me on social media. If you enjoyed this recipe, let me know in the comments. Happy baking!

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