Lemon curd is a delicious, tangy, and sweet spread that can elevate any dish with its bright and zesty flavor. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, filling pastries, or even just eating by the spoonful! While lemon curd might sound fancy, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This simple recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and comes together in no time. Let’s dive into making your own delightful lemon curd!
Description
Lemon curd is a smooth, luscious spread made from lemons, sugar, butter, and eggs. It has a rich, velvety texture and a balance of tart and sweet flavors. The curd’s vibrant yellow color and intense lemony aroma make it a delightful addition to a variety of desserts, from cakes and tarts to scones and pancakes. This easy lemon curd recipe is foolproof, ensuring that even novice cooks can create a batch of this delightful treat without hassle.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 3 large eggs
- Pinch of salt
Method
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by zesting and juicing the lemons. You’ll need about 1/2 cup of lemon juice and the zest from 2 lemons. Make sure to strain the lemon juice to remove any seeds and pulp.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Cook the Curd: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the butter cubes to the mixture, stirring constantly. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens. This should take about 8-10 minutes. The curd is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear path when you run your finger through it.
- Strain and Cool: Remove the saucepan from heat. To achieve a smooth and silky curd, pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing with a spoon to remove any lumps or zest. Allow the lemon curd to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a clean jar or container.
- Store: Once cooled, cover the curd with a lid and store it in the refrigerator. It will thicken further as it cools and can be kept for up to two weeks.
Variations & Tips
- Add Vanilla: For a twist on the classic lemon curd, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract during the cooking process. This will give the curd a rich, warm flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the lemon.
- Lime or Orange Curd: Substitute the lemons with limes or oranges to create different curd flavors. You can even mix citrus fruits for a unique taste.
- Double Boiler Method: If you’re worried about the eggs curdling, use a double boiler. Place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water and whisk the ingredients until thickened. This method offers more control over the heat, reducing the risk of scrambling the eggs.
- Thickening the Curd: If your curd isn’t thickening, continue to cook it over low heat, stirring constantly. Make sure not to let the mixture boil, as this can cause the eggs to curdle.
- Using Cornstarch: For a thicker consistency, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the curd while cooking.
Conclusion
Making homemade lemon curd is a straightforward process that yields a deliciously tangy and sweet spread. With just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can create a jar of lemony goodness that enhances any dish. Whether you spread it on toast, fill pastries, or simply eat it by the spoonful, this easy lemon curd recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the bright, refreshing taste of lemons in every bite!