How to Make Lemon Curd

Lemon curd is a zesty, creamy spread that adds a bright, tangy flavor to a variety of desserts and baked goods. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in everything from tarts and cakes to scones and pancakes. Making lemon curd at home is surprisingly simple and allows you to control the sweetness and tartness to your liking.

The rich, velvety texture and vibrant lemon flavor make homemade lemon curd a standout addition to any kitchen. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow and produces a lemon curd that is both tangy and sweet, with a smooth consistency that spreads beautifully. Whether you’re using it as a filling for pastries or as a topping for yogurt, this lemon curd will elevate your dishes with its fresh, citrusy flavor.

Ingredients for Lemon Curd

• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• A pinch of salt

How to Make Lemon Curd

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Juice and Zest Lemons: Start by zesting and juicing your lemons. You’ll need about 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. Be sure to strain the juice to remove any seeds or pulp.
2. Prepare a Double Boiler: Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Ensure the bowl does not touch the water. This method helps to gently cook the curd without scrambling the eggs.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. Combine Lemon Juice and Sugar: In the heatproof bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and granulated sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add Eggs and Whisk: Add the eggs to the lemon mixture, whisking constantly to combine. This will create a smooth, slightly frothy mixture.
3. Cook the Mixture: Place the bowl over the simmering water. Continue to whisk the mixture constantly, making sure it cooks evenly. It’s important to keep whisking to prevent the eggs from curdling.

Step 3: Thicken the Curd

1. Add Butter and Salt: As the mixture starts to thicken, add the small pieces of butter and a pinch of salt. Continue to whisk until the butter is completely melted and incorporated into the curd.
2. Check Consistency: The curd is done when it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. It should have a custard-like consistency. This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the Curd: Once the curd has thickened, remove it from the heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. This step ensures a smooth texture by removing any bits of cooked egg or zest.

Step 4: Cool and Store

1. Cool the Curd: Allow the lemon curd to cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
2. Transfer to Jars: Once cooled, transfer the lemon curd to airtight jars or containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
3. Use and Enjoy: Use the lemon curd as a filling for tarts, cakes, or pastries. It’s also delicious as a topping for scones, yogurt, or pancakes.

About the Main Ingredients

Lemon Juice and Zest

Lemon juice provides the primary flavor for the curd, offering a fresh, tangy taste that balances the sweetness of the sugar. Lemon zest, the outer peel of the lemon, adds an extra burst of citrus flavor and aroma, enhancing the overall lemony taste of the curd.

Granulated Sugar

Sugar sweetens the lemon curd and helps to balance the tartness of the lemon juice. It also plays a role in thickening the curd as it cooks, contributing to the final texture.

Eggs

Eggs are essential for thickening the curd. They act as a natural thickening agent, giving the curd its custard-like consistency. The proteins in the eggs coagulate during cooking, which thickens the mixture and provides structure.

Unsalted Butter

Butter adds richness and creaminess to the lemon curd. It also helps to smooth out the texture and gives the curd a luxurious mouthfeel. Unsalted butter is preferred to control the amount of salt in the recipe.

Salt

A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the curd. It helps to bring out the natural citrusy flavor of the lemons and adds depth to the overall taste.

Homemade lemon curd is a delightful treat that adds a burst of fresh, citrusy flavor to any dessert or baked good. This recipe is straightforward and yields a creamy, tangy curd that is perfect for spreading, filling, or topping. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a delicious lemon curd that rivals any store-bought version. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile ingredient and incorporate it into your favorite recipes for a zesty, homemade touch.