If you’re looking for a bright and zesty addition to your desserts, look no further than this lemon curd recipe. It’s the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness that can elevate everything from cakes to tarts, or even just slathered on toast. Making lemon curd at home is simpler than you might think, and the result is a luxurious, creamy treat that will impress anyone you serve it to.
This recipe is a must-try for citrus lovers. With just a few ingredients, including fresh lemons, sugar, eggs, and butter, you can whip up a batch of homemade lemon curd that will have your taste buds dancing. The silky texture and bright flavor make it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
The Allure of Lemon Curd
Lemon curd presents a delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors that can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary. It’s a versatile spread that can elevate various desserts, from pastries to cakes.
With its inviting yellow hue and glossy surface, lemon curd is visually appealing. The shiny texture draws you in, making it hard to resist a taste.
Ingredients that Shine
The key to exceptional lemon curd lies in its ingredients. Fresh lemons provide the essential brightness, while sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Eggs contribute to the silky smooth texture, and butter enriches the flavor. A pinch of salt rounds out the taste, ensuring a well-balanced spread.
Simple Preparation Steps
Making lemon curd is straightforward. Start by combining lemon juice and zest with sugar and a pinch of salt in a saucepan.
Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl before gradually incorporating them into the lemon mixture. Cooking the curd over medium heat thickens it to a luscious consistency.
Storage and Longevity
After the curd thickens, remove it from heat and stir in cubed butter until fully melted. Once cooled, transfer the lemon curd to an airtight jar.
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy its zesty goodness over time.
Versatile Uses
Lemon curd isn’t just for spreading on toast or scones. It can be layered in cakes, swirled into yogurt, or used as a filling for tarts and pastries.
The possibilities are endless, making it a staple in any kitchen that loves citrus flavors.
The Perfect Lemon Curd Recipe
This lemon curd is incredibly smooth and tart, bursting with fresh lemon flavor. It’s sweetened just right, making it perfect for layering in desserts or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Whisk Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs until well beaten.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually whisk the beaten eggs into the lemon mixture in the saucepan.
- Cook the Curd: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Add Butter: Remove from heat and stir in the cubed butter until fully melted and incorporated.
- Cool and Store: Transfer the lemon curd to a clean jar or container, and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 1 cup
- Calories: 110kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
