The Easiest Lemon Curd Recipe
Introduction
Lemon curd is a bright, tangy spread that’s perfect for toast, desserts, or as a filling. This easy recipe creates a smooth and creamy curd with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 3 eggs
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 5-6 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Step 1: In a saucepan, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until fully combined. Slowly add the fresh lemon juice while continuing to whisk.
- Step 2: Place the saucepan over low heat and whisk constantly for 10 to 15 minutes until the mixture thickens. Be careful not to let it get too hot, as this can cause the eggs to curdle.
- Step 3: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the butter until melted and smooth.
- Step 4: Allow the lemon curd to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until ready to use. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright, tangy flavor—bottled juice won’t give the same result.
- For a zestier curd, add 1 teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest with the juice.
- If the curd starts to curdle, whisk constantly and remove from heat quickly to salvage the texture.
- Try substituting some lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter, less tart variation.
Storage
Store lemon curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To serve, bring to room temperature or warm gently over a double boiler if it becomes too thick. Avoid freezing as this can affect the texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this lemon curd as a cake filling?
Yes, lemon curd makes a delicious and tangy cake filling. Just make sure it’s chilled and thickened before spreading between layers.
What should I do if my lemon curd curdles?
If your curd begins to curdle, immediately remove it from heat and whisk vigorously. Pouring it through a fine sieve can help smooth out the texture. Prevention by whisking constantly and maintaining low heat is best.
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The Easiest Lemon Curd Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
Description
This easy lemon curd recipe creates a smooth, tangy, and sweet spread perfect for topping toast, filling pastries, or enhancing desserts. Made with simple ingredients like fresh lemon juice, eggs, sugar, and butter, it’s cooked gently on the stovetop to achieve a luscious creamy texture.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 whole eggs
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from 5–6 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Combine Eggs and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, add the 3 whole eggs and 3 egg yolks along with 1 cup of sugar. Whisk the mixture until it is fully combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Lemon Juice: Slowly whisk in 1 cup of fresh lemon juice to the egg and sugar mixture, ensuring everything is well blended.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over low heat. Whisk constantly for 10-15 minutes to prevent the eggs from curdling and to encourage thickening. Monitor the temperature carefully and keep the mixture from getting too hot.
- Add Butter and Cool: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of butter until fully incorporated. Allow the lemon curd to come to room temperature.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the lemon curd to a container and refrigerate until needed. The curd will thicken further as it cools, achieving a creamy consistency perfect for spreading or filling.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and natural brightness.
- Keep the heat low during cooking to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Whisk continuously to maintain smooth texture and prevent lumps.
- Store lemon curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For a zestier flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest along with the juice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce/Spread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: lemon curd, easy lemon curd recipe, lemon spread, homemade lemon curd, citrus curd, dessert topping
