10 Perfectly Portioned Desserts for One to Satisfy Your Cravings

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Mini Lemon Tart

Bright, tangy, and irresistibly creamy, this mini lemon tart is a delightful single-serving dessert. Featuring a buttery tart shell filled with smooth homemade lemon curd, it’s a perfect treat for citrus lovers seeking a refreshing and elegant dessert for one! Make the tart shell ahead of time for quicker assembly or try adding a dash of vanilla extract to the lemon curd for a creative twist.

Ingredients (serves 1):

For the Shell:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 tsp cold water (or more, as needed)

For the Lemon Curd:

• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Optional Garnish:

• Whipped cream
• Lemon zest or a thin lemon slice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. Add the cold butter and mix with your fingertips or a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Press the dough into a mini tart pan or ramekin, shaping it evenly along the base and sides. Prick the base with a fork to prevent puffing.
5. Bake for 12–15 min. or until the shell is golden. Let it cool completely.
6. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together egg yolk, sugar, lemon juice, and zest.
7. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5–7 min. Be careful not to let it boil.
8. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until smooth. Let the curd cool to room temperature.
9. Spoon the cooled lemon curd into the tart shell, smoothing the top with a spatula.
10. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest or a thin lemon slice for a decorative touch.