Why Make This Lemon Curd
Making your own lemon curd at home allows you to control the sweetness and tartness, achieving the perfect balance tailored to your taste. There’s something immensely satisfying about transforming fresh lemons into a silky, luscious sauce. Plus, it fills your kitchen with an irresistible citrus aroma that makes you feel like a gourmet pastry chef. Whether you’re adding it to desserts or simply enjoying it on its own, homemade lemon curd offers an unparalleled freshness that store-bought varieties often lack.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 120 calories
- Protein: 2g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 16g per serving
- Fat: 6g per serving
- Fiber: 0g per serving
- Sugar: 14g per serving
- Sodium: 45mg per serving
Lemon curd is a refreshing and versatile condiment that bursts with bright citrus flavor. Perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on scones, or using as a filling in desserts, this creamy delight showcases the vibrant taste of fresh lemons. It’s simple to prepare and adds a zesty touch to any dish, making it a fantastic option for newcomers to cooking as well as seasoned chefs looking to elevate their presentations.
How to Make Lemon Curd
Making lemon curd is straightforward, requiring just a few simple ingredients and a bit of your time. Here’s how to craft this delightful treat step by step.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Zest of 2 lemons
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Juice the lemons until you obtain 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, and don’t forget to zest two of the lemons using a microplane or a zester.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, granulated sugar, and eggs until they’re well combined and the sugar begins to dissolve.
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Step 3: Cooking
Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or a spatula. You’ll want to keep stirring until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, which should take about 10 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent curdling.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and the butter is completely melted. For a silky texture, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding any solids. Allow the curd to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until set, which usually takes about an hour.
How to Serve Lemon Curd
Lemon curd can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Use it as a spread on toast or scones, layer it in cakes or pastries, or even swirl it into yogurt for a tangy treat. It makes a fantastic filling for tarts and pies, complementing rich crusts with its bright taste. The options are endless!
How to Store Lemon Curd
Store your lemon curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last up to two weeks, ensuring you can enjoy its zesty flavor throughout the days. If you want to keep it longer, lemon curd can also be frozen for up to three months. Just place it in a freezer-safe container and thaw it in the fridge when you’re ready to use it.
Expert Tips for Perfect Lemon Curd
- Be careful not to let the temperature get too high while cooking, as this can cause the eggs to scramble. Patience is key!
- For added richness, you can experiment with flavored extracts, such as vanilla or almond, to enhance the taste.
- If you have extra zest, consider using it to sprinkle on top when serving or in other recipes for a burst of lemon flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Mango Lemon Curd: Substitute half of the lemon juice with fresh mango puree for a tropical twist.
- Lavender Lemon Curd: Infuse the lemon juice with dried lavender buds before cooking for a fragrant and floral version.
- Key Lime Curd: Try using key limes instead of regular lemons for a creamier, tangy version that’s perfect for pies.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh lemon juice produces the best flavor and results in a more vibrant curd. - Why is my lemon curd runny?
If your curd does not set properly, it might not have cooked long enough to thicken. Ensure you cook it until it coats the back of a spoon. - Can I adjust the sweetness of the lemon curd?
Yes! Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to taste. Just keep in mind that the balance of tart and sweet is part of what makes lemon curd so delightful. - Can I use eggs from a carton instead of fresh eggs?
Yes! Just use an equivalent amount and ensure the carton eggs are good quality for the best results. - What can I make with leftover lemon curd?
Leftover lemon curd is perfect for topping pancakes or waffles, as a filling for crepes, or as a dip for fresh fruits.
Conclusion
Homemade lemon curd is an incredibly satisfying and delicious treat worth trying. With its vibrant flavor, easy preparation, and countless serving ideas, this recipe elevates desserts and breakfasts alike. So roll up your sleeves, zest those lemons, and make a batch of this delightful lemon curd—you won’t regret it! Enjoy the sweet, tangy goodness with family and friends.
Print
Homemade Lemon Curd
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and versatile lemon curd bursting with bright citrus flavor, perfect for spreading on toast or using in desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Zest of 2 lemons
Instructions
- Preparation: Gather all your ingredients. Juice the lemons until you obtain 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, and zest two lemons.
- Mixing: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, granulated sugar, and eggs until well combined.
- Cooking: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, about 10 minutes.
- Finishing: Remove from heat, stir in the unsalted butter and lemon zest until smooth. Strain through a sieve, allow to cool, then refrigerate until set.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Can be frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
