Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups (150 grams) crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup (40 grams) unsweetened flaked coconut
- 9 tablespoons (125 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 1 cup (227 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (60 grams) confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (227 grams) heavy cream
Garnish
- Lemon slices (fresh or candied)
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Fresh mint or rosemary sprigs
Instructions
- Make the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, shredded coconut, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles damp sand. Press firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch tart pan, packing tightly to form an even crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden and toasted. Let cool completely before adding filling.
- Make the Lemon Cream Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. Add confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with an electric mixer and whisk attachment until stiff peaks form that hold shape when the whisk is lifted.
- Fold the Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in two additions, using slow folding motions to preserve airiness and achieve a mousse-like texture. Fold until no streaks remain.
- Assemble the Tart: Spoon the filling evenly into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until firm enough to slice cleanly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, decorate the tart with lemon slices, toasted coconut flakes, and fresh mint or rosemary sprigs as desired. Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Press the crust mixture firmly to avoid crumbling when slicing.
- Use slow, gentle folding to keep the filling light and airy.
- Chilling the tart overnight improves texture and flavor melding.
- For extra tartness, add more lemon juice to the filling, tasting as you go.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American