Lemon-Butter Cups
Delightful lemon butter tartlets with flaky crusts and tangy filling, perfect for parties or afternoon tea, offering a bright citrus flavor in each bite.
Ingredients
- 1 package pie crust mix
- 3 cups Lemon Butter ⓘ
Instructions
- Prepare pie crust mix according to directions on the package; roll out dough, half at a time, to 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured pastry cloth.
- Cut out circles about 3 1/2 inches across.
- Fit the dough circles into small tart or muffin pan cups and flute the edges.
- Prick the pastry with a fork.
- Bake in a hot oven (425°F) for about 10 minutes or until golden brown; then cool.
- Just before serving, fill each tart with about 1 tablespoon Lemon Butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flaky crust, ensure your butter is cold and handle the dough as little as possible. If you don't have pie crust mix, a homemade version using flour, butter, and cold water works well. Consider adding a pinch of salt and sugar for flavor. For a twist, try filling with Berry Whip Frosting instead of Lemon Butter for a vibrant variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful tarts as a refreshing dessert after a heavy meal or alongside a cup of tea for a light afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a complete dessert spread, consider serving with Lo-Cal Chocolate-Nut Brownies or Rhubarb Brownies for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lemon-Butter Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon-Butter Cups contains roughly 97 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of a mix?
Yes, store-bought pie crusts are a convenient alternative. Just roll it out and cut it to fit your tart or muffin pan. Ensure to follow the baking instructions on the package for best results.
How can I make the Lemon Butter from scratch?
To make Lemon Butter, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, the juice of 2 lemons, and the zest of 1 lemon in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired. This homemade version elevates the flavor significantly.
Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes, you can freeze the empty baked tart shells. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and fill them with Lemon Butter just before serving for optimal freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).