
A historical dessert from The White House cook book; a comprehensive cyclopedia of information for the home .. (1913).
Preserved exactly as written in the original source
Mix well together the juice and grated rind of two lemons, two cupfuls of sugar, two eggs and the crumbs of sponge cake
Beat it all together until smooth
0 notes
Sign in to share your thoughts and connect with the community
Sign In to CommentLoading notes...
Put into twelve patty-pans lined with puff paste
Bake until the crust is done
Modern guidance to help you succeed with this vintage recipe
The sponge cake crumbs act as a thickening agent, absorbing the lemon juice while providing structure without the need for cornstarch or flour. The eggs contribute additional binding and create a custard-like texture when baked. The high sugar content not only balances the tartness of the lemon but also helps set the filling through sugar crystallization, while the combination of acid from lemon juice and proteins from eggs creates a tender, sliceable filling that won't weep.
The puff pastry shells can be blind-baked up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The lemon filling can be prepared up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature and re-whisk before filling the shells.
Store baked tartlets covered loosely with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The puff pastry will soften over time. For best texture, consume within 24 hours. Do not freeze, as the custard filling will separate upon thawing.
AI-generated tips from Chef Cecil's culinary database
The puff pastry shells can be blind-baked up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The lemon filling can be prepared up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature and re-whisk before filling the shells.
Store baked tartlets covered loosely with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The puff pastry will soften over time. For best texture, consume within 24 hours. Do not freeze, as the custard filling will separate upon thawing.