Name: Lilac & Blueberry Curd Tarts
Prep time: 2 h 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 55 min
Cuisine: Seasonal
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1/4 tsp salt; 3–4 tbsp ice water; 1/2 cup fresh or dried lilac blossoms (unsprayed, edible); 1/2 cup fresh blueberries; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large egg yolks; 1 whole egg; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed; 1–2 drops natural purple food coloring (optional); Fresh blueberries; Edible lilac blossoms or violets

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Lilac & Blueberry Curd Tarts are a fragrant and visually stunning tribute to spring. These delicate pastries combine crisp, buttery tart shells with a luscious lilac and blueberry curd, naturally tinged with soft purple hues. Topped with fresh blueberries and edible lilac blossoms, each tart offers a balance of floral, fruity, and tangy notes—perfect for garden parties, high tea, or any special occasion that celebrates the beauty of the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tarts are as elegant as they are flavorful. The lightly floral lilac infusion pairs beautifully with tart blueberries and lemon, creating a curd that is both vibrant and refreshing. The buttery, golden shells provide the perfect vessel for the silky filling, while the edible garnishes elevate the presentation. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply embracing seasonal ingredients, these tarts deliver both charm and sophistication.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Tart Shells:

All-purpose flour
Unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
Granulated sugar
Salt
Ice water

For the Lilac & Blueberry Curd:

Fresh or dried lilac blossoms (edible and unsprayed)
Fresh blueberries
Granulated sugar
Egg yolks
Whole egg
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Unsalted butter, cubed
Natural purple food coloring (optional)

For Garnish:

Fresh blueberries
Edible lilac flowers or violets

directions

To Make the Tart Shells:

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until the dough just comes together.
Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and press into 8 mini tart pans. Prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent puffing.
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown. Allow shells to cool completely before filling.

To Make the Lilac & Blueberry Curd:

In a small saucepan, combine lilac blossoms, blueberries, and lemon juice. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
Strain through a fine sieve, pressing gently to extract all liquid. Discard solids and let the liquid cool slightly.
In a clean saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and sugar until smooth.
Slowly stir in the strained lilac-blueberry liquid and lemon zest.
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 8–10 minutes). Do not let it boil.
Remove from heat and whisk in butter cubes until the curd is glossy and smooth. Add food coloring if desired for enhanced color.
Pour the curd into the cooled tart shells, smoothing the tops.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the curd is fully set.

To Serve:

Garnish each tart with a few fresh blueberries and edible lilac blossoms or violets just before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 8 mini tarts
Calories: Approximately 265 kcal per tart

Variations

Lemon Thyme Crust: Add a pinch of chopped fresh lemon thyme to the tart dough for an herbal twist.
Mixed Berry Curd: Replace some of the blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a different berry profile.
Vanilla Lilac Curd: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the curd for added depth.
Cream-Topped Tarts: Add a small swirl of whipped cream before garnishing with flowers.
Nutty Crust: Substitute part of the flour with ground almonds for a nuttier tart shell.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the crust gluten-free.
Citrus Curd Base: Add more lemon juice for a sharper citrus bite to balance the floral tones.

storage/reheating

Store assembled tarts in the refrigerator, loosely covered, for up to 2 days. The tart shells can be made in advance and stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The lilac blueberry curd can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days. These tarts are best served chilled and are not suitable for freezing once assembled.

FAQs

Can I use dried lilac blossoms?

Yes, dried edible lilac blossoms can be used. Use slightly less than fresh, and ensure they are food-safe and unsprayed.

Are lilac flowers edible?

Yes, lilac blossoms are edible, but only when they are pesticide-free and properly identified as safe to eat.

Can I make this as one large tart?

Yes, press the dough into a 9-inch tart pan and adjust baking time for the larger shell (15–18 minutes).

How do I know when the curd is done?

The curd should thicken and coat the back of a spoon. Do not boil; gentle heating ensures a smooth texture.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, thaw them first and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Do I have to use food coloring?

No, the blueberries naturally tint the curd a soft purple. Food coloring is optional for a more vibrant appearance.

How do I get the crust extra crisp?

Brush the tart shells with a thin layer of egg white and bake for 2–3 extra minutes to seal the surface.

Can I use a different flower?

Yes, violets, lavender, or rose petals (edible and untreated) make excellent substitutes.

How do I prevent curd from curdling?

Cook the mixture over low heat and stir constantly. Straining the curd before chilling can remove any accidental lumps.

What pairs well with these tarts?

Serve with herbal tea, sparkling lemonade, or a floral white wine for an elegant pairing.

Conclusion

Lilac & Blueberry Curd Tarts are a celebration of spring in every bite. With a buttery crust, delicately floral and tangy filling, and a garden-fresh finish, these tarts are a refined and beautiful dessert for any seasonal gathering. Whether served at a tea party or a brunch event, they’re sure to impress with their taste and presentation, capturing the essence of early blooms and bright berries.