Tuga Pops − Sunday, March 30, 2025, 1 Year ago in Dessert Recipes
5 out of 5 with 3 ratings

Zesty Lemon & Coconut Dream Tart Recipe

This zesty lemon coconut tart recipe makes a creamy Portuguese yogurt dessert. Authentic textures and zesty citrus notes deliver a professional bakery finish.
55 min 8 servings Easy Prep time 15 min Cooking Time 40 min

You will love this Zesty Lemon & Coconut Dream Tart Recipe

This definitive lemon coconut tart recipe produces a silky, citrus-infused custard with a distinct tropical finish. By leveraging the protein structure of a traditional Portuguese yogurt tart, the filling achieves a stable yet melt-in-your-mouth consistency. This easy coconut lemon dessert balances sharp acidity with toasted coconut notes, providing the ideal sensory profile for high-end hosting.


Ingredients

1 sheet store-bought shortcrust pastry or pie crust (approx. 320g / 11.3oz)2 tablespoons shredded coconut (approx. 15g / 0.5oz)1 large lemon (approx. 45ml / 3 tbsp juice)4 large eggs2 plain yogurts, 5oz each (approx. 285g / 10oz total)1 3/4 cups granulated sugar (approx. 350g / 12.3oz)3 tablespoons butter, softened (approx. 42g / 1.5oz)

Equipment:

9-inch tart pan with removable bottomLarge mixing bowlBalloon whisk or electric hand mixerCitrus juicerMeasuring cups and spoonsCooling rack

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Line a tart pan with the pastry and bake for about 15 minutes until slightly cooked, remove and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, mix the sugar and butter until well combined.
  4. Add the eggs and beat again.
  5. Squeeze in the lemon juice, then add the yogurts and shredded coconut, mixing well.
  6. Pour the mixture into the tart shell and bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25 minutes, until set.
  7. Let it cool, decorate as desired, and serve.

Tips & Variations

- Make sure to blind bake your shortcrust pastry before adding the filling. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy. Bake it at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden, then let it cool before filling.
- For a more pronounced coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown before adding it to the filling. This enhances the nutty taste and adds depth to your tart.
- Avoid overmixing the egg and yogurt mixture; mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a custard that puffs up excessively during baking and then collapses, resulting in a denser texture.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Novelo de Arte

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
385 kcal
Fat
16 g
Carbs
54 g
Protein
7 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the shortcrust pastry with a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can substitute the shortcrust pastry with a gluten-free pie crust. Store-bought gluten-free options are widely available, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour blends. Make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as baking times may vary.

How should I store leftovers of the Zesty Lemon & Coconut Dream Tart?

You should store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The tart will keep well for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer to serve it chilled, let it sit in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving.

What should I do if my tart mixture doesn't set properly after baking?

If your tart mixture doesn't set after baking, it may need additional time in the oven. You can check for doneness by gently shaking the tart; if it jiggles in the center but is firm around the edges, it's usually done. If it’s still very liquid, return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking periodically.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Vinho Verde - This light and slightly effervescent wine complements the tartness of the lemon and the creaminess of the yogurt beautifully.

General: Sauvignon Blanc - The bright acidity and citrus notes of Sauvignon Blanc enhance the zesty flavors of the tart while balancing the sweetness from the sugar.

Beer

Portuguese: Sagres - This refreshing lager has a crisp, clean finish that pairs well with the tart's citrus elements.

General: Lager - A light lager offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tart, making it a versatile pairing.

Other Beverages

Coconut Water: The subtle sweetness and refreshing nature of coconut water enhance the coconut flavor in the tart while providing a light, hydrating option.

You might also like

Amazing Strawberries with Port Wine Recipe

Learn how to make these amazing strawberries with Port wine (morangos com vinho do Porto).

Level of Difficulty Easy
Servings 4
Amazing Flan with Caramel Recipe

This amazing flan with caramel (pudim com caramelo), makes a delicious dessert.

Level of Difficulty Easy
Servings 8
Scrumptious Meringue Pudding Recipe

Learn how to make this scrumptious meringue pudding (pudim de merengue), a quick and delicious...

Level of Difficulty Easy
Servings 6

Reviews (0) Add a review

There are no reviews for this recipe. Add a review.

Tuga Pops

Joined 11 Years ago n/a
Share
this Page
Facebook Pinterest X Reddit