Brighten up your desserts with this Clear Lemon Jelly Filling, a luscious, glossy layer that brings a vibrant citrus touch to cakes, pastries, and tarts. Crafted from fresh lemon juice, sugar, and softened gelatin for a perfectly smooth finish, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between tangy and sweet. The addition of optional lemon zest enhances the flavor, while a cornstarch slurry ensures just the right thickness for an elegant, transparent texture. With only 15 minutes of prep time, this versatile filling sets beautifully in the fridge, creating a stunning visual and flavor boost for all your favorite baked treats. Whether you're filling flaky tart shells or layering sponge cakes, this zesty lemon jelly is as simple as it is sensational!
Step 1: Begin by soaking the gelatin sheets in a bowl of cold water for 5-10 minutes until softened.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the lemon juice, granulated sugar, and 240 ml of water. If using zest, add it now for an extra boost of flavor.
Step 3: Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved. Do not let it boil.
Step 4: Dissolve the cornstarch in 30 ml of cold water to create a slurry.
Step 5: Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the heated lemon mixture. Stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Step 6: Continue stirring over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes glossy, about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Remove the pan from heat. Gently squeeze the water out of the softened gelatin sheets and immediately stir them into the hot lemon mixture until fully dissolved.
Step 8: Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any zest or undissolved particles for a perfectly clear finish.
Step 9: Allow the lemon jelly to cool to room temperature. Then pour it into your prepared pastry shells, cake layers, or other desired use.
Step 10: Refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours to fully set. The clear lemon jelly filling can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Calories |
493 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.3 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 50 mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 122.5 g | 45% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g | 2% | |
| Total Sugars | 103.2 g | ||
| Protein | 7.1 g | 14% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 28 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 0.2 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 128 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.