Easy Lemon Curd: A Tangy Delight in Just 30 Minutes
Lemon curd is a beloved classic for a reason – its perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors makes it a crowd-pleasing topping, filling, or stand-alone treat. And the best part? You can create this heavenly lemon delight right in your own kitchen with minimal effort. Our easy lemon curd recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, delivering a silky-smooth, intensely flavorful result that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
Lemon curd has a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of so many, and our easy version is sure to become a new household favorite. Not only is it quick and simple to prepare, but the end result is a luxuriously creamy, perfectly tart-sweet lemon spread that can be used in endless ways. From topping scones and pancakes to filling tarts and parfaits, this versatile recipe is a must-have in any home cook’s arsenal.
Beyond its versatility, what really sets this easy lemon curd apart is its remarkable texture. Through a careful balance of ingredients and a gentle cooking process, we’ve managed to create a curd that is silky-smooth, velvety, and spoon-able, without any graininess or separation. It’s a true testament to the power of patience and technique in the kitchen.
📋 Ingredients
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice (from about 3-4 lemons)
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
• Pinch of salt
The beauty of this easy lemon curd is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of bright lemon juice, rich egg yolks, and creamy butter creates the classic citrus-inspired flavor profile that has made lemon curd recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Easy Lemon Curd Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, about 5-8 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture boil.
• Step 3: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the cubed butter until completely melted and incorporated. Stir in the lemon zest and a pinch of salt.
• Step 4: Pour the lemon curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl or jar. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and thickened.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 5-8 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
Compared to traditional lemon curd recipes which can take up to an hour to prepare, this easy lemon curd saves you 50% of your cooking time while delivering similar bright, tangy flavors.
📊 Nutrition Facts
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
• Protein: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 43mg
These easy lemon curd recipes provide approximately 15% of your daily vitamin C requirements and 6% of your daily vitamin A needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with fresh berries for a simple but elegant dessert
• Complement a fruit tart or lemon meringue pie
• For a brunch spread, serve alongside pancakes, waffles, or crepes
• Create an English tea-inspired platter with clotted cream, jam, and fresh herbs
❓ FAQs
How long can I store homemade lemon curd?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade lemon curd will keep for up to 1 week. You can also freeze lemon curd for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is ideal for the best flavor, you can substitute bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Keep in mind the flavor may be slightly less intense. Use 1/2 cup (120ml) of bottled lemon juice instead of the fresh juice called for in the recipe.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this lemon curd dairy-free, simply substitute the unsalted butter with an equal amount of dairy-free butter or coconut oil. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but it will still result in a delicious dairy-free lemon curd.
What is the best way to reheat lemon curd?
The best way to reheat lemon curd is in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through. You can also gently reheat it in a double boiler or saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and heated.
Can I add extra lemon zest for more flavor?
Absolutely! If you want an even more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of lemon zest to 1-2 tablespoons. Just be sure not to grate the zest too finely, as it can make the curd slightly bitter.
🏁 Conclusion
These easy lemon curd recipes represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a topping for scones and pancakes or using them to fill tarts and parfaits, they’re sure to impress with their silky-smooth texture and bright, tangy taste. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these easy lemon curds demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to experience the magic of homemade lemon curd in your own kitchen!
