Easy Lemon Curd

My Easy Lemon Curd recipe is buttery rich, silky smooth, and features plenty of citrusy flavors thanks to the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. With just four simple ingredients, this golden deliciousness is perfect for various occasions like brunches, desserts, or as a topping for cakes and pastries. The delightful balance of tangy and sweet in this easy lemon curd makes it a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just four ingredients and a straightforward method, you can whip up this easy lemon curd in no time.
• Versatile Use: Spread it on toast, fill pastries, or use it as a topping for cakes and desserts—this curd fits in anywhere!
• Fresh Flavor: Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, every bite bursts with bright citrus flavor that elevates any dish.
• Make Ahead: Prepare this curd in advance; it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, making it perfect for planning ahead.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or mix in other citrus juices to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Tools and Preparation

To create your easy lemon curd, having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium sized saucepan
• Heatproof mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Fine mesh sieve
• Glass bowl for cooling

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium sized saucepan: This allows you to create a gentle simmer that helps thicken the curd without burning.
• Heatproof mixing bowl: Essential for mixing ingredients without worrying about melting or damaging your bowl during cooking.
• Fine mesh sieve: This ensures your lemon curd is silky smooth by straining out any lumps or bits of cooked egg.

Ingredients

For my Easy Lemon Curd recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Curd

• 1 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed (~5-6 lemons)
• 1 Tbsp. lemon zest, (~from 2 lemons)
• 1 3/4 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup salted butter

How to Make Easy Lemon Curd

Step 1: Prepare Your Double Boiler

Fill a medium sized saucepan with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Then turn the heat down to medium-low so the water is at a simmer.

Step 2: Whisk Ingredients Together

Whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs in a heatproof mixing bowl. Slice the butter into cubes and add them to the egg mixture.

Step 3: Cook Until Thickened

Place the bowl over the simmering water. Whisk continuously for about 20-25 minutes until the curd begins to thicken. It may look curdled at first but will smooth out as you whisk.

Step 4: Check Temperature

This recipe yields about 2 cups of lemon curd. The thickening time may vary based on your stovetop burner. Use a thermometer; it’s done when it reaches 170°F or can coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Strain the Curd

Strain the curd through a fine mesh sieve into a glass bowl to remove any lumps.

Step 6: Cover Properly

Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the warm curd to prevent a film from forming (this method is called contact wrapping).

Step 7: Cool Before Storing

Allow to cool at room temperature before transferring to the fridge. Chill completely for at least 4 hours or overnight. The curd thickens more when chilled.

Step 8: Store Your Curd

Refrigerate your easy lemon curd in sealed glass jars for up to one week. Enjoy it in various delicious ways!

How to Serve Easy Lemon Curd

Easy Lemon Curd is a versatile treat that can elevate many dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enjoy this bright and tangy delight.

On Toast

• Spread it generously on warm toast for a refreshing breakfast or snack.

With Scones

• Pair it with freshly baked scones for a delightful afternoon tea experience.

As a Filling

• Use it as a filling in cakes, cupcakes, or pastries for an added citrus punch.

With Yogurt

• Swirl it into yogurt for a quick and tasty dessert or breakfast option.

Over Ice Cream

• Drizzle it over vanilla ice cream for a zesty twist on this classic dessert.

In Parfaits

• Layer it with granola and fruit in parfaits for a beautiful and delicious dessert presentation.

How to Perfect Easy Lemon Curd

Creating the perfect Easy Lemon Curd requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your curd turns out just right.

• Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor and brightness of your curd.
• Whisk continuously: This prevents lumps from forming and ensures even cooking for a smooth texture.
• Monitor temperature: Use a thermometer to check that the curd reaches 170°F for the best consistency.
• Strain the mixture: Straining removes any unwanted bits and results in a silky-smooth curd.
• Store properly: Keep your lemon curd in sealed glass jars in the fridge to maintain freshness.
• Allow cooling time: Letting the curd cool completely in the fridge thickens its texture, making it perfect for use.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Lemon Curd

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Lemon Curd can enhance its flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Shortbread Cookies
   A buttery complement that balances the tartness of lemon curd perfectly.
2. Pavlova
   This meringue-based dessert is light and airy, providing an excellent base for lemon curd topping.
3. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness, making it an ideal pairing with citrus flavors.
4. Crepes
   Fill thin crepes with lemon curd and roll them up for an elegant dessert option.
5. Cheesecake Bites
   Mini cheesecakes topped with lemon curd create a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
6. Pancakes
   Serve pancakes drizzled with lemon curd instead of syrup for a zesty breakfast treat.
7. Vanilla Pudding
   A smooth pudding can be layered with lemon curd for an unexpected combination of textures and tastes.
8. Biscotti
   Enjoy these crunchy cookies dipped into lemon curd as a delightful pairing during tea time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Lemon Curd, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Not using fresh ingredients: Always use fresh lemon juice and zest. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant flavor essential for delicious curd.
• Overheating the mixture: Cooking at too high a temperature can cause the eggs to scramble instead of thicken. Keep the heat low and be patient.
• Skipping the straining step: Straining helps ensure a smooth texture. Don’t skip this step; it removes any lumps or cooked egg bits.
• Not cooling properly: Allow the curd to cool completely before refrigerating. This ensures it thickens properly and improves its texture.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Store your Easy Lemon Curd in airtight containers to keep it fresh longer and avoid contamination.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in sealed glass jars for up to 1 week.
• Ensure jars are clean and dry before filling.

Freezing Easy Lemon Curd

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the curd will expand when frozen.

Reheating Easy Lemon Curd

• Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish at 250°F until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (15-20 seconds) on medium power, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring constantly until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Easy Lemon Curd, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some commonly asked questions:

How long does Easy Lemon Curd last?

Easy Lemon Curd can last up to 1 week when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Easy Lemon Curd?

Yes, you can freeze Easy Lemon Curd for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container.

What do I do if my lemon curd is too runny?

If your Easy Lemon Curd is too runny, try cooking it a bit longer while whisking continuously until it thickens.

How can I use Easy Lemon Curd?

There are many ways to enjoy Easy Lemon Curd! Use it as a spread on toast, filling for cakes, or even dolloped onto yogurt or ice cream.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lemon Curd recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. Its rich and tangy flavor makes it perfect for various desserts or breakfast treats. Feel free to customize it with different citrus fruits or adjust sweetness levels according to your preference!