Lemon Curd

There’s something utterly transformative about making Lemon Curd. As a child, I remember my grandmother standing in the kitchen, zesting lemons with a whimsical smile. The way she combined the tartness of the lemons with the sweetness of sugar created a magical blend that filled our home with a refreshing aroma. My first attempt at making Lemon Curd was a delightful disaster, with curdled cream and a slightly too tangy taste, but it was all part of the fun. Now, every time I prepare this bright, creamy treat, I’m reminded of those joyful moments spent with her, and it makes the process feel so special. Whether you spread it on your morning toast, use it as a filling for pastries, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful, Lemon Curd always brings a burst of sunshine to my day.

What Goes Into Lemon Curd

The ingredients for Lemon Curd are simple yet powerful. Each component plays a role in balancing the tartness of the lemons with the sweetness needed for a delicious experience. The *key players* include fresh lemons for zest and juice, creamy unsalted butter to enrich the texture, and sugar to sweeten the mix. Together, they create a luscious and tangy spread that can elevate any dish.

• 3 lemons: Fresh lemons provide the zest and juice, giving Lemon Curd its vibrant flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups sugar: This balances the tartness of the lemons and creates a smooth texture.
• 1/4 lb unsalted butter: Room temperature butter adds richness and creaminess to the curd.
• 4 extra large eggs: Eggs thicken the curd and add a silky texture.
• 1/2 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed juice is essential for that tangy flavor.
• 1/8 tsp kosher salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor.

How to Cook Lemon Curd

Making Lemon Curd is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with the fragrance of lemon. The process is straightforward and rewarding, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a fresh batch in no time!

1. Start by removing the zest of 3 lemons using a grater or zester. The zest is packed with essential oils that will give your Lemon Curd a vibrant flavor. Make sure not to include any of the bitter white pith. Enjoy the fragrant aroma as you zest!
2. Next, add the zest to a food processor along with 1 1/2 cups sugar. Pulse until the mixture feels fine and aromatic. This step helps to infuse the sugar with the lemon oils from the zest, creating a fragrant base for your curd.
3. In a mixing bowl, cream 1/4 lb unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Then, gradually beat in the lemon-sugar mixture. This will give your Lemon Curd a rich, buttery flavor that complements the tartness of the lemons.
4. Add the 4 extra large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This ensures the eggs are well incorporated, which is crucial for achieving that silky texture.
5. Now, pour in 1/2 cup lemon juice and add 1/8 tsp kosher salt. Mix until everything is well combined. The salt enhances the flavor, making your Lemon Curd even more delightful.
6. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan over low heat. Cook while stirring constantly for about 10 minutes or until the curd thickens. It’s important to keep stirring to prevent the eggs from curdling. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
7. Once thickened, remove the pan from heat and let it cool. You can choose to refrigerate it for a thicker texture. As it cools, the flavors will meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your Lemon Curd.
8. After cooling completely, transfer your Lemon Curd into a clean jar. Seal it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for a week, although I doubt it will last that long once you taste it!

Tips for Success

Crafting the perfect Lemon Curd can be a delightful experience with a few helpful tips in mind. Here are some insights to ensure your curd turns out beautifully every time:

• Use fresh lemons: For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice.
• Temperature matters: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
• Stirring is key: Keep stirring the curd while cooking to prevent it from curdling.
• Cooling method: To speed up the cooling process, use an ice bath once your curd thickens.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to mix in other citrus fruits or herbs like thyme for a unique twist.
• Serving suggestion: Pair your Lemon Curd with whipped cream for a luxurious dessert.
• Check the consistency: If your curd seems too runny, cook it a little longer until it thickens.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Lemon Curd, the options are endless! Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this tangy treat:

• On toast: Spread Lemon Curd on warm toast for a bright start to your morning.
• In desserts: Use it as a filling for cakes or tarts to add a zingy surprise.
• With scones: Serve Lemon Curd alongside freshly baked scones for a delightful brunch.
• In yogurt: Swirl it into plain yogurt for a refreshing snack.
• As a topping: Drizzle over pancakes or waffles for a zesty kick.
• Gift it: Pack Lemon Curd in jars as homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Seasonal pairing: This curd is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a bright contrast to heavier dishes.

FAQ

Conclusion

Making Lemon Curd is not just about creating a delicious treat; it’s about reconnecting with joyful memories and indulging in timeless flavors. I encourage you to try making your own batch, as it’s a fun and fulfilling experience. Your taste buds will thank you, and you may find yourself making it a regular in your kitchen!

Lemon Curd

The ultimate treat for lemon lovers, Lemon Curd is a creamy, tangy spread that elevates any breakfast or dessert. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up this easy, luscious curd that pairs beautifully with scones, pancakes, or even on its own. Why not indulge in this delightful recipe tonight?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 3 cups

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Food Processor
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 3 lemons lemons Fresh lemons provide essential flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups sugar Balances the tartness of the lemons.
• 1/4 lb unsalted butter Adds richness to the curd.
• 4 extra large eggs Thickens the curd and adds texture.
• 1/2 cup lemon juice Fresh juice is crucial for flavor.
• 1/8 tsp kosher salt Enhances the flavor of the curd.

Instructions

 

• Remove the zest of 3 lemons with a grater or zester.
• Add to a food processor, and with the steel blade, pulse with sugar until fine.
• In a mixer, cream the butter and beat in the sugar/zest mixture.
• Add eggs one at a time, then add lemon juice and salt and mix to combine.
• Add to a saucepan on low heat.
• Cook, stirring constantly, for 10 minutes or until thick.
• Remove from heat and cool or refrigerate.

Notes

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
• Freezing: Can be frozen for up to three months.
• Pairing: Enjoy with scones or as a filling for cakes.
• Flavor variations: Consider adding orange zest for a twist.
• Perfect for gifting: Package in jars for thoughtful gifts.

Keyword Best Lemon Curd, Easy Lemon Curd, Homemade Lemon Curd, Lemon Curd Recipe

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!