#frenchpastry

INGREDIENTS:

For the crust:

1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour

½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

1 egg yolk

1-2 tablespoons ice water

For the lemon filling:

1 cup (240ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice

Zest of 2 lemons

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch

4 large eggs

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter

For the meringue topping:

4 large egg whites

1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

>>> Video tutorial here &lt;;<<

PREPARATION:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)

Prepare the crust:

In a food processor, combine the flour, cold butter, and sugar. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the egg yolk and pulse again.

Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough comes together.

Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Roll out the dough:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle slightly larger than your tart pan.

Transfer the dough to a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pan. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

>>> Video tutorial here &lt;;<<

Blind bake the crust:

Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.

Remove the weights and parchment paper, then bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Prepare the lemon filling:

In a medium saucepan, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, cornstarch, eggs, and salt.

Whisk the mixture together until well combined and smooth.

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the butter until melted and incorporated.

Pour the lemon filling into the cooled crust.

>>> Video tutorial here &lt;;<<

Make the meringue topping:

In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar using an electric mixer until soft peaks form.

Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Assemble and bake the tart:

Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure to cover the entire surface and create decorative peaks.

Bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue turns golden brown.

Cool and serve:

Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.

Once cooled, refrigerate for a few hours to set.

Serve chilled and enjoy!

They say those are the best éclairs of Paris...