As the first hints of spring start to warm the air, I’ve found myself craving something sweet yet delightful—something that embodies the essence of the season. That’s when I decided to whip up these Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd. This recipe not only beautifully showcases vibrant strawberries and creamy honey custard nestled in a flaky crust, but it’s also a versatile treat that’s perfect for celebrating occasions like Easter brunch. With quick prep and the ability to impress at any spring gathering, you’ll find every bite refreshingly balanced and utterly satisfying. What’s your favorite way to welcome spring flavors into your kitchen?

Why Choose Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts?

Delightfully Light: These tarts offer a refreshing sweetness that perfectly captures springtime. Each bite is a luscious experience, blending juicy strawberries with honey custard.

Quick Preparation: With simple steps, you’ll create a dessert that looks gourmet but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, making it a time-saving choice for busy cooks.

Versatile Serving: Whether at an Easter brunch or a casual family gathering, they impress any crowd. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream or opt for a drizzle of tangy lemon curd for that extra zing.

Healthier Indulgence: Using vanilla yogurt adds a creamy texture while boosting the nutritious benefits. It’s a win-win for anyone looking to enjoy sweets without the guilt!

By the way, if you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying these Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed wonton bites for a fun twist on dessert!

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

Flour – All-purpose flour provides a sturdy base for the tarts.
Sea Salt – A pinch enhances the flavors; kosher salt is a great alternative.
Sugar – White granulated sugar sweetens and balances the crust.
Butter – Unsalted butter offers richness and flakiness; ensure it’s cold.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely aroma; almond extract can be an exciting substitute.
Cold Water – Ice-cold water helps bind the dough without melting the butter.

For the Custard Filling

Strawberries – Fresh strawberries are ideal for sweetness and color; frozen is fine in a pinch.
Vanilla Yogurt – The creamy base that makes the custard rich; plain yogurt is a lower-sugar alternative.
Honey – Sweetens the custard beautifully; consider maple syrup for a unique twist.
Eggs – Large eggs provide structure and richness to the filling.
Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed adds a zesty punch, balancing the sweetness of the custard.
Lemon Zest – Amplifies the lemon flavor; lime or orange zest works well too.
Unsalted Butter (for lemon curd) – Keeps the curd silky; use cold for the best texture.
Coarse Salt – Balances the sweetness of the lemon curd; regular salt can be used if needed.

These Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are sure to be a delightful addition to your spring dessert lineup!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

Step 1: Prepare Lemon Curd
In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of cold unsalted butter, ¾ cup sugar, ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and a pinch of coarse salt over low heat. Stir gently until butter melts, then gradually whisk in 3 large beaten eggs. Continue cooking for about 8-9 minutes, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Once ready, remove from heat and chill the lemon curd in the refrigerator until needed.

Step 2: Make Pie Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of sea salt. Add ½ cup chilled, cubed unsalted butter and cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 3–4 tablespoons of ice-cold water until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 15-60 minutes.

Step 3: Bake the Crust
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it’s about ⅛ inch thick. Carefully line tart pans with the dough, ensuring to press it into the corners. Prick the bottoms with a fork, then line with parchment paper and fill with baking beans. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Once finished, remove from the oven and let the crusts cool completely before filling.

Step 4: Prepare Custard Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in 1 cup of vanilla yogurt and ¼ cup honey, stirring until fully combined. In the cooled tart crusts, layer fresh, sliced strawberries, ensuring even coverage. Pour the honey custard mixture over the strawberries, filling each crust to the top.

Step 5: Bake the Tarts
Place the filled tarts in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard filling is set and the crusts are golden brown. The edges should be lightly browned, and the center should slightly jiggle but not be liquid. Remove from the oven and allow the tarts to cool slightly on a wire rack before drizzling with chilled lemon curd for an extra zesty kick just before serving.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Use Cold Ingredients: Always work with cold butter and water for the crust. This is crucial for achieving a flaky texture in your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts.
Whisk Smoothly: Be sure to whisk the eggs thoroughly when making the custard. This will help avoid any curdling and ensure a creamy, smooth texture.
Mind the Heat: If your lemon curd isn’t thickening, adjust the heat slightly while continuously whisking. This helps create the perfect texture for drizzling over your tarts.
Layer Fresh Strawberries: For a stunning presentation, layer your sliced strawberries on top of the baked custard instead of mixing them in. This also keeps them fresh and vibrant.
Chill the Tarts: Allow your tarts to cool completely before drizzling with lemon curd. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and enhances the overall experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the lemon curd up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor. Additionally, the tart crust can be made, rolled out, and frozen for up to 1 month; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the crust overnight in the fridge. To finish, layer the fresh strawberries and honey custard filling on baking day, bake for 30-35 minutes, and drizzle with lemon curd just before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious tarts with minimal last-minute work!

What to Serve with Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful accompaniments that enhance the fresh flavors of your tarts.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luscious, creamy contrast to your tarts, enriching each sweet bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast, balancing the tartness of the lemon curd beautifully.
Fresh Mint Leaves: A garnish of fresh mint leaves brings a burst of freshness that brightens the palette alongside the strawberry and lemon flavors.
Chilled Lemonade: Sipping on a glass of refreshing lemonade enhances the zesty notes of the tarts, creating an invigorating pairing perfect for sunny days.
Berry Compote: A warm berry compote, perhaps made with mixed berries, adds an extra layer of fruitiness, making each mouthful an explosion of flavor.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate adds depth and richness, creating a harmonious balance between sweet and slightly bitter notes.
Sparkling Prosecco: A glass of bubbly Prosecco can elevate your dessert table and add a festive touch, especially during celebrations like Easter.

Pairing these delightful options with your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts will surely charm your guests and celebrate the beauty of spring flavors.

Storage Tips for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Fridge: Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain the freshness of the strawberries and custard without losing flavor.
Freezer: If you need to freeze the tarts, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: For best results, reheat tarts gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will warm the custard without overcooking it.
Lemon Curd: For optimal flavor, prepare the lemon curd fresh, but you can refrigerate any leftovers in a sealed container for up to 1 week, or freeze for later use.

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these delightful tarts your own with these fun variations!

Berry Bliss: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or cherries for a colorful twist. Each berry brings its unique flavor, creating a delightful tart experience.
Store-Bought Crust: Use a pre-made pie crust for an ultra-quick preparation. Perfect for those busy days when you want to skip the dough-making!
Non-Dairy Delight: Substitute vanilla yogurt with coconut or almond yogurt for a vegan version. It still retains that creaminess you crave while being dairy-free.
Zesty Infusion: Add a teaspoon of lime zest along with lemon zest for an extra zing in your lemon curd. The bright flavors will really pop on your palate!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed nuts like almonds or pecans into the crust for a delightful texture. The added crunch elevates the tart to a whole new level.
Choco-Lover’s Dream: Drizzle a little melted dark chocolate over the tarts just before serving. This delicious twist adds a rich, indulgent flavor, perfect for chocolate lovers!
Peachy Twist: Try using thin slices of peaches for a summer-inspired variant. Their juicy sweetness perfectly complements the honey custard base.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper into the lemon curd for a surprising hint of heat. The sweet and spicy contrast is absolutely mouthwatering.

And if you’re in the mood for other fruity delights, don’t miss out on baking these delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls for another delicious experience!

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts with Lemon Curd Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting strawberries?
Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are vibrant red, plump, and fragrant. Avoid any berries with green or white patches and those showing dark spots or mold. Fresh strawberries should be firm to the touch and free from bruises for the best flavor and texture in your tarts.

How should I store leftover tarts?
You can store leftover strawberry honey custard tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps retain the freshness of the strawberries and the creaminess of the custard. If the tarts have been topped with lemon curd, ensure it is also stored in an airtight container for maximum flavor preservation.

Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes, you can freeze strawberry honey custard tarts! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. If you have leftover lemon curd, that can be refrigerated for up to 1 week or frozen for longer storage.

What do I do if my lemon curd isn’t thickening?
If your lemon curd isn’t thickening, don’t worry! Simply increase the heat slightly while continually whisking. It should begin to thicken after a few more minutes on the heat, typically taking about 2-3 additional minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on it and stir frequently to avoid curdling.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the custard?
Very! To make a dairy-free version of your strawberry honey custard tarts, substitute the vanilla yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt alternative, such as almond or coconut yogurt. These options will still provide a creamy base while ensuring the dish is suitable for those avoiding dairy. Just be mindful of the flavor profile; each yogurt can lend its unique taste to the custard.

Can my pets enjoy the strawberries left over from the tarts?
Absolutely! Strawberries are safe for most pets in moderation. They can make a sweet treat for your furry friends; however, always wash them thoroughly and remove any tops. Just be cautious about the amount given, as too many can lead to stomach upset in pets. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure!