A zesty and creamy lemon curd perfect for spreading on pastries or adding to desserts.
Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Total
25 min
Servings
10
Difficulty
Easy
Instructions
Prepare the lemon mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar. Mix until the sugar is dissolved.
Pro tip: Ensure all the sugar is dissolved for a smoother curd.
Whisk in eggs
Add the beaten eggs to the lemon mixture, whisking constantly to combine fully.
Pro tip: Whisk continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling.
Cook the mixture
Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes.
Pro tip: Do not let the mixture boil, as it can cause curdling.
Add butter
Remove from heat and immediately stir in the butter cubes until completely melted and incorporated.
Pro tip: Adding butter off-heat ensures a creamy texture.
Strain the curd
Pour the curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any zest and ensure a smooth texture.
Pro tip: Straining is optional but recommended for a silky finish.
Cool and store
Let the curd cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sterilized jar. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Pro tip: Use sterilized jars to extend storage life.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavour and aroma.
- Strain the curd for a smoother texture.
- Stir constantly to prevent curdling.
- Store in a sterilized jar for longer shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is lemon curd?
Lemon curd is a creamy spread made from lemon juice, zest, sugar, eggs, and butter. It is used as a topping or filling in various desserts and pastries.
How do I store lemon curd?
Store lemon curd in a sterilized jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for several months.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, you can substitute lime for lemon to create lime curd, which will have a slightly different but delicious flavour.
Why did my lemon curd curdle?
Curdling can occur if the mixture is cooked at too high a temperature. Always cook over low heat and stir continuously.
Is lemon curd gluten-free?
Yes, lemon curd is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Nutrition per serving
120
Calories
2g
Protein
6g
Fat
15g
Carbs
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