When it comes to dessert, many of us want something delicious yet light enough that we don’t feel guilty after indulging. Enter the Citrus Meringue Tart—a refreshing dessert bursting with vibrant flavors, now lightened up to fit into your healthy lifestyle. This revamped version is not only under 275 calories per serving but also retains all the delightful flavors you love. Perfect for any occasion, this tart is sure to impress friends and family alike!

Enjoy Dessert Without the Guilt!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low Calorie: At just about 250 calories per slice, you can enjoy dessert without compromising your dietary goals.
• Refreshing Flavors: The combination of sweet orange and tart lemon makes every bite a zesty delight.
• Elegant Presentation: A beautiful addition to any dinner table or gathering, it’s sure to be a showstopper!
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

The Recipe: Lightened Citrus Meringue Tart

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1-2 tablespoons cold water (if needed)

For the Citrus Filling:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• 4 large egg yolks, beaten
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Meringue:

• 4 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tart Crust

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt, then incorporate softened butter and egg yolk. Mix until crumbly.
• Add cold water as necessary until the dough holds together.
• Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork.
• Bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

2. Make the Citrus Filling

• In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in water, orange juice, and lemon juice.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
• Temper the beaten yolks with a small amount of the hot mixture, then stir back into the saucepan. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until thick.
• Stir in butter and zest. Pour filling into the cooled crust.

3. Whip Up the Meringue

• Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
• Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla and blend well.
• Spread meringue over the citrus filling, sealing the edges.

4. Bake the Tart

• Bake for 10-12 minutes until the meringue is golden.
• Allow to cool to room temperature and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

• Slice into 8 pieces and enjoy your lightened Citrus Meringue Tart!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: ~250
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 80mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugars: 23g
• Protein: 4g

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Citrus Juice: Freshly squeezed juice elevates the flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Zest: The zest adds incredible aroma and flavor.
• Cool Completely: Ensure the tart cools completely for better slice integrity.

Final Thoughts

This Lightened Citrus Meringue Tart is the perfect guilt-free dessert for any occasion. With its zesty filling and fluffy meringue topping, it’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this tart is sure to make you feel great about your dessert choice.

Share Your Creation!

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below! Share a photo of your beautiful Citrus Meringue Tart on social media using the hashtag #CitrusMeringueTart. We’d love to see your creations!

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