Lemon-Lime Pastry Bites

why make this recipe

Lemon-Lime Pastry Bites are a delightful treat that balances the tangy flavors of citrus with a light, flaky pastry. These bites are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet snack. They are easy to make and will impress your family and friends with their fresh taste and pretty appearance. The combination of lemon and lime creates a refreshing dessert that is satisfying and not overly sweet.

how to make Lemon-Lime Pastry Bites

Ingredients:

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg (for egg wash)
1/2 cup lemon juice
2 tbsp lime juice
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lime
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 egg yolk
2 tbsp butter, cubed
2 tbsp heavy cream
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Lemon or lime zest curls (for garnish)

Directions:

Prep the shells: Start by cutting the puff pastry into small squares. Press these squares into mini muffin tins. Brush the edges with egg wash to give them a nice golden color. Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes until they are golden and puffed.
Make the curd: In a saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, lime juice, zest, sugar, eggs, and egg yolk. Cook this mixture over medium heat until it thickens. Once thickened, take it off the heat and whisk in the cubed butter and heavy cream until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Fill the shells: Spoon the cooled citrus cream into the baked pastry cups. Be generous for a nice filling.
Decorate: Dust the tops with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon or lime zest. This adds a beautiful touch.
Chill & serve: Refrigerate for about 30 minutes for the best texture. These treats are best served chilled.

how to serve Lemon-Lime Pastry Bites

Serve these Lemon-Lime Pastry Bites chilled for a refreshing dessert. They are great on their own, but you can also pair them with a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra special touch, add fresh fruit or whipped cream on the side.

how to store Lemon-Lime Pastry Bites

To store Lemon-Lime Pastry Bites, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it is best to enjoy them fresh.

tips to make Lemon-Lime Pastry Bites

Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using. This helps in achieving the best flaky texture.
When making the curd, stir constantly to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
If you like it sweeter, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the curd.

variation

For a twist on this recipe, try using different citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit for a unique flavor. You can also add a touch of coconut milk to the curd for a creamy version.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pastry?
Yes, you can use phyllo pastry or pie crusts if you prefer, but they may alter the texture slightly.

How long do these pastry bites take to make?
The entire process takes about an hour, including prepping, baking, and chilling.

Can I freeze these pastry bites?
It is not recommended to freeze the filled pastry bites, as the texture may change. However, you can freeze the unbaked pastry shells for future use.