Blueberry Lemon Custard Tart

Name: Blueberry Lemon Custard Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1-2 tablespoons cold water; 2 cups whole milk; ½ cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; Zest of 2 lemons; ½ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Recipes

I've always loved the harmonious blend of bright lemon and sweet blueberries, and this Blueberry Lemon Custard Tart perfectly encapsulates that flavor combination. As I prepared this tart, I was thrilled to see how the creamy custard pairs beautifully with the tartness of the lemon and the juicy blueberries. The crust adds a delightful crunch to each bite, making this dessert an irresistible centerpiece for any gathering. It's easy to make and sure to impress your friends and family, especially during warm weather when fresh berries are at their peak.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T15:42:27.871Z

While experimenting with different custard flavors, I stumbled upon combining lemon and blueberries and was instantly captivated. I wanted to create a tart that showcased these flavors without overpowering one another. After several tries, I found that a delicate balance of sugar and acidity brings out the best in both ingredients, and now this recipe is a hit every time.

One of my tips is to let the tart cool completely before serving. This allows the custard to set perfectly, ensuring that it slices beautifully. Trust me, allowing that cooling time is crucial to achieving the best texture and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Tart
Zesty lemon flavor complements the sweet blueberries
Creamy custard texture that delights with every bite
A stunning dessert that's surprisingly easy to make

Choosing the Right Blueberries

The quality of blueberries can significantly affect the overall flavor of your Blueberry Lemon Custard Tart. Look for plump, firm berries that are deep blue in color. If possible, choose organic blueberries, as they are less likely to be treated with pesticides, allowing the tart's natural flavors to shine. Avoid berries that appear dull or have green or red spots, as these indicate that they are unripe or overripe, potentially impacting the tart's texture and taste.

When incorporating the blueberries into the custard, consider gently tossing them in a bit of flour before adding them on top. This simple trick helps to prevent the berries from sinking during baking, ensuring a beautiful presentation. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of blueberries based on your preference—more berries for a fruitier flavor, or fewer if you wish to accentuate the lemon custard.

Perfecting the Custard

Making a luxurious custard might seem daunting, but it's all about temperature control and patience. As you heat the milk, keep it just below a simmer—bubbles should gently form around the edges, indicating it's ready. If the milk boils, it can scorch or separate, resulting in a grainy texture instead of a smooth custard. Stirring constantly while pouring the hot milk into the egg mixture is crucial to avoid curdling the eggs; aim for a steady stream without letting the eggs cook prematurely.

After combining the custard ingredients, return the mixture to the heat and cook until it thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon—run your finger through it, and the line should remain clear. If you find the custard isn’t thickening, it may need a minute or two more. Just remember to keep the heat low; a gentle simmer is key to achieving the right consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Blueberry Lemon Custard Tart:

For the Crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1-2 tablespoons cold water

For the Custard

2 cups whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
3 tablespoons cornstarch
Zest of 2 lemons
½ cup fresh lemon juice
1 cup fresh blueberries

Once you have your ingredients ready, you're all set to create this delicious tart!

Instructions

Follow these steps to craft your Blueberry Lemon Custard Tart:

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix the flour and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and enough cold water to bring the dough together. Press the dough into a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Chill for 15 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool.

Make the Custard

In a saucepan, heat the milk and lemon zest over medium heat until just below boiling. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and cornstarch. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return the mixture to the pan and cook over low heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in lemon juice.

Combine and Bake

Pour the custard into the cooled crust and gently sprinkle fresh blueberries on top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely before slicing.

Once baked, let your tart cool down fully before enjoying!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with some fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

The Blueberry Lemon Custard Tart can be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic dessert for gatherings. Once baked and cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing other odors from the fridge. If you notice the custard begins to weep slightly after a day, don’t worry—this is normal, especially if there are fresh fruits involved.

If you'd like to prepare the crust in advance, you can freeze it after baking. Wrap the cooled crust tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to use, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before adding the custard and berries. This not only saves time but also ensures a flaky, fresh crust.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, consider topping each slice of the tart with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the tartness of the lemon and balances the sweetness of the custard. For a decorative touch, you might also sprinkle extra lemon zest or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top just before serving for added brightness.

When it comes to pairing beverages, this tart works wonderfully with a chilled glass of iced tea or a light sparkling wine, both of which highlight the refreshing nature of the blueberries and lemon. You can also serve it alongside a light salad with a citrus vinaigrette to round out a delicious meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Baking the crust until it's lightly golden helps prevent sogginess. Additionally, you can brush it with a bit of melted butter before adding the custard.

→ What can I substitute for whole milk?

You can use half-and-half or almond milk for a dairy-free option, but this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.