Name: Blueberry Lemon Curd Tart Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups fresh blueberries, divided; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 oz water; 1 Tbsp cornstarch; 6 large egg yolks; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons); 4 oz cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces; 1 Tbsp grated lemon zest; 1 pre-made or homemade tart shell (such as strawberry chocolate ganache tart shell)

If you’re looking for an irresistible dessert that bursts with bright, fresh flavors, this Blueberry Lemon Curd Tart Recipe is a must-try. Imagine a tender, buttery tart shell cradling smooth, tangy lemon curd, topped with a luscious spoonful of sweet blueberry compote—each bite is a perfect harmony of sweet and tart. It’s a dessert that feels light yet indulgent, elegant enough for special occasions but simple enough to make any evening feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four steps of making a smooth yellow custard sauce. The first step has a silver pot filled with egg yolks and white sugar. The second step shows the mixture being whisked into a thick yellow liquid in the same pot. The third step shows the addition of white butter chunks to the sauce, with a whisk mixing it in. The last image shows a clear glass bowl filled halfway with the smooth, bright yellow finished sauce, placed on a wooden table with a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Blueberry Lemon Curd Tart Recipe brings together just a handful of simple ingredients, but each plays a crucial role in creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. From fresh blueberries that provide vibrant color and natural sweetness, to rich egg yolks and zesty lemons that form the luscious curd, every component enhances the final dish beautifully.

3 cups fresh blueberries: Choose bright, plump berries for the best flavor and texture in your compote.
1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the blueberry compote just enough to balance the tartness.
1 oz water: Helps dissolve the cornstarch and create the perfect compote consistency.
1 Tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the blueberry sauce to a delightful syrupy texture.
6 egg yolks: The richness in the lemon curd comes from these, giving it that silky, creamy feel.
1 cup sugar: Sweetens the lemon curd while balancing the acidity of the lemon juice.
1/2 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons): Provides bright, zesty flavor and essential acidity.
4 oz cold butter (cut into small pieces): Adds richness and smoothness to the lemon curd for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1 Tbsp grated lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor with fragrant oils and fresh citrus aroma.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Blueberry Lemon Curd Tart Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Blueberry Compote

Start by placing two cups of fresh blueberries into a small pot along with half a cup of sugar. This mixture will slowly transform into a luscious compote that’s bursting with fruity goodness. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry, then add it to the pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and the blueberries start to burst, about five minutes. Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the remaining cup of fresh blueberries for that perfect pop of texture. Set this aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Silky Lemon Curd

Next, focus on the star of the tart: the lemon curd. Begin by zesting the lemons, making sure only to use the bright yellow skin to avoid bitterness from the white pith. Then juice the lemons and strain the juice to keep the curd silky smooth. In a small pot, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until well combined. Add in the strained lemon juice and gently warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. Watch carefully and remove it from the heat just as it thickens — avoid boiling to prevent curdling. Immediately whisk in the cold, cubed butter and fresh lemon zest to achieve a rich and creamy lemon curd. Chill this mixture in the refrigerator to set while you prepare your tart shell.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart

Whether you’ve baked your own tart shell or opted for a quality pre-made one, make sure it’s fully cooled before assembly. Spread the chilled lemon curd evenly into the shell, creating a smooth base layer. Then delicately spoon the blueberry compote on top, taking care not to swirl it into the lemon curd. This maintains the distinct layers of flavor and texture that make every bite special. Once assembled, refrigerate the tart until you’re ready to serve, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Curd Tart Recipe

The image shows a slice of tart on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The tart has three layers: a thin light golden crust at the bottom, a smooth creamy yellow layer in the middle, and a top layer of shiny dark purple blueberries covered with a glossy red-purple glaze. The blueberries are round and tightly packed on the tart, with the glaze making them look wet and fresh. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a visual and flavor boost by dusting the tart lightly with powdered sugar or topping it with a few fresh blueberries and thin lemon slices. A sprig of fresh mint adds a lovely pop of green and a hint of herbal freshness that complements the citrus and berry flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This tart pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can make for a lovely contrasting side if you are enjoying the tart as part of a larger meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, consider serving the tart in individual portions with a drizzle of blueberry syrup or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top. For a fun twist, place the tart on a slate serving board and scatter edible flowers around for a stunning, bakery-worthy display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Blueberry Lemon Curd Tart Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy a slice (or two!) later.

Freezing

While the tart is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month if needed. Wrap the tart securely with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

This tart is delicious served chilled, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, leave it at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to take the chill off without compromising texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Fresh blueberries are ideal because they hold their shape better and have a vibrant flavor, but if frozen is all you have, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess liquid in the compote.

Is it possible to make the lemon curd without egg yolks?

Egg yolks are essential for the traditional texture and richness of the lemon curd. However, there are vegan substitutes available which use ingredients like cornstarch or silken tofu, but the texture and flavor will differ from this classic Blueberry Lemon Curd Tart Recipe.

Can I prepare the tart in advance for a party?

Absolutely! This tart actually benefits from some resting time in the fridge. Prepare it a day ahead, and it will be ready to serve whenever guests arrive, making your hosting experience smoother.

What kind of tart shell works best?

A buttery, flaky tart shell is perfect for this recipe to complement the creamy lemon curd and juicy berries. You can use a homemade shortcrust pastry or a store-bought shell for convenience.

How can I ensure my lemon curd doesn’t curdle?

Cook the curd gently over medium heat and remove it from the heat as soon as it thickens. Constant stirring is important, and avoid boiling to keep the curd smooth and silky.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dessert that truly stands out yet remains easy enough to whip up on a whim, this Blueberry Lemon Curd Tart Recipe is your new best friend. Its vibrant colors, lively flavors, and perfect textures never fail to impress. Go ahead and try it—you’ll not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also create memories around a dessert that feels as joyful to make as it is to eat.

Blueberry Lemon Curd Tart Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need