If you’re craving a bright, tangy treat that’s bursting with sunshine in every spoonful, this Easy Lemon Curd Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This luscious, creamy lemon curd strikes the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, with a silky texture that’s just divine. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, dolloping it onto desserts, or stirring it into yogurt, this recipe is a simple yet spectacular way to elevate your treats with real lemony goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Lemon Curd Recipe lies in its deceptively simple list of ingredients, each bringing something wonderful to the party—flavor, richness, and that signature bright color. Using fresh, quality components will make all the difference!
- 3 large eggs: They act as the thickening agent, giving the curd its smooth, custard-like texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the lemon and sweetens the curd beautifully.
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons): The star ingredient, providing punchy, fresh citrus flavor.
- Zest of 2 lemons: Adds intense aromatic oils that elevate the lemon flavor beyond just juice.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes: Creates a rich, silky finish and smooths out the tartness.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Make Easy Lemon Curd Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Eggs and Sugar
Start by combining the eggs and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth. This foundation guarantees a creamy consistency as you cook, preventing lumps and giving you that perfect curd texture.
Step 2: Add Lemon Juice, Zest, and Salt
Next, stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients bring that unmistakable bright citrus aroma and flavor to the curd while the salt subtly brings out the nuances in every pinch of lemon.
Step 3: Cook and Whisk Constantly
Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk non-stop for about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial because the continuous whisking prevents the eggs from scrambling and helps the mixture thicken perfectly, coating the back of your spoon with a velvety texture.
Step 4: Incorporate the Butter
After removing the mixture from the heat, whisk in the chilled butter cubes one at a time until fully melted and incorporated. This transforms the lemon curd into a rich, glossy delight that melts in your mouth.
Step 5: Strain for Extra Smoothness
For flawless texture, strain the curd through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. This step removes any bits of cooked egg or zest, leaving you with an ultra-smooth, luxurious lemon curd that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate
Let the lemon curd cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least two hours to let all those incredible flavors meld together. Chilling also helps the curd thicken even more, so it’s ready for spreading or spooning.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Curd Recipe
Garnishes
Lemon zest curls or a few thin slices of fresh lemon make a beautiful garnish that enhances the lemon’s natural fragrance and adds a little zing when served.
Side Dishes
This lemon curd pairs beautifully with flaky scones, buttery toast, pancakes, or dolloped on top of creamy yogurt or ice cream. It’s a wonderful companion to sweet and savory snacks alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not layer this lemon curd between sponge cake layers for a spectacular dessert, or swirl it into whipped cream for a luscious lemon mousse? It can even brighten up a simple bowl of oatmeal or create a vibrant topping for cheesecakes and tarts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover lemon curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, making it easy to enjoy your creation on your schedule.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal, as the texture might change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap it well and use within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy your lemon curd warm, gently reheat it in a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Be careful not to overheat, or it might curdle.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor and natural oils, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be sure it’s 100% lemon juice without added preservatives for the best taste.
Is it necessary to strain the lemon curd?
Straining is highly recommended for achieving a silky smooth texture. It removes any cooked egg bits and zest pieces, making your curd more refined, though it won’t affect the flavor if you skip it.
How do I know when the lemon curd is done cooking?
It’s ready when the mixture thickly coats the back of a spoon and you can run your finger across the spoon’s back leaving a distinct line. This means you’ve reached the perfect custard consistency.
Can I use this lemon curd as a filling for cakes?
Absolutely! The smooth texture and balanced flavor make it a fantastic filling for cakes, cupcakes, tarts, and pastries. It adds a lovely zing that pairs well with many dessert flavors.
Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?
Traditional lemon curd relies on eggs and butter for texture and richness. However, you can experiment with plant-based butter and egg substitutes, but expect differences in texture and flavor. There are vegan lemon curd recipes specially tailored if that’s your preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making this Easy Lemon Curd Recipe from scratch—the way it fills your kitchen with fragrant lemon smells and the delight of tasting that first silky, tart, and sweet spoonful. It’s a wonderful little culinary victory that brightens breakfasts, desserts, and beyond. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how irresistible homemade lemon curd can be!
Print
Easy Lemon Curd Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Sauce/Spread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy lemon curd recipe combines fresh lemon juice and zest with eggs, sugar, and butter to create a smooth, tangy spread perfect for desserts, toast, or as a filling. Cooked on the stovetop until thickened, it is quick to prepare and can be refrigerated for later use.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 3 large eggs and 1 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Lemon Ingredients and Salt: Stir in 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, zest of 2 lemons, and a pinch of salt, making sure everything is well incorporated.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk constantly for about 8-10 minutes. Cook until the curd thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, being careful not to scramble the eggs.
- Add Butter: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in 1/2 cup unsalted butter cubes gradually until the butter is fully melted and the curd is smooth.
- Strain the Curd: Pour the lemon curd through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any bits of zest or cooked egg for a silky texture.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the lemon curd to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let it set before serving or using in recipes.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Whisk constantly while cooking to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth texture.
- Straining the curd removes lumps and creates a luxurious finish.
- Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Perfect as a spread, in cakes, tarts, or dolloped on yogurt.
