Classic Lemon Curd Recipe

Kristen Massad — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 18:00:14 +0000

This made from scratch Classic Lemon Curd Recipe is tangy, sweet, smooth and the most amazing filling for a variety of desserts! Made with only five ingredients, you will never buy store bought Lemon Curd again!

This Classic Lemon Curd Recipe is one of those items that need to be in everyones refrigerator. It is the perfect topping on toast, filling in cakes, tarts or cookies and even better just enjoyed by the spoonful. Homemade Lemon Curd only requires five ingredients and will be ready to use in no time at all.

Ingredients

Lemon Juice-Fresh lemon juice is way better than jarred and will give this curd the purest flavor.
Lemon Zest- Adding the zest will add an extra pop of lemon flavor and make sure to strain the curd to remove the zest once it is cooked.
Eggs-Whole eggs are used in this recipe as a thickener for the curd.
Granulated Sugar-Adding a sweetness to the tart flavor of lemon.
Unsalted Butter-Cube the butter before placing in the saucepan to ensure that it is evenly distributed while mixing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients together and gently whisk on low heat until the butter melts and the curd starts to thicken. (the lemon curd should be able to coat the back of a wood spoon and can hold the shape when a line is drawn through it)

Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the lemon curd into a glass bowl and cover the curd using plastic wrap and pressing it onto the top of the curd to prevent it from forming a crust.

Allow the lemon curd to cool at room temperature and then place in the refrigerate to thicken and set completely before using.

Expert Tips and FAQ's

What is the difference between a Fruit Curd and Jam?

A fruit curd can be mistaken for a jam because they are both made by reducing fruit with sugar, but curds are made with just juice from the fruit creating a smooth and velvety texture. A fruit curd is a dessert spread that is commonly made with citrus fruits but can be made with a large variety of fruit flavors.

Lemon curd needs to be stirred consistently in a sauce pan or can be made in a double boiler to guarantee that the eggs cook evenly and don't become chunky.
Straining the curd will allow you to remove the zest and any cooked eggs to create a very smooth finish

Recipes Perfect With Lemon Curd