Easy Lemon Curd Recipe

If you’re looking for the brightest, sunniest way to bring a burst of tangy flavor to your kitchen, this Easy Lemon Curd is pure bliss in a jar. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly you can whip up a luscious, velvety curd that’s as versatile as it is irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are four everyday ingredients, but don’t let their simplicity fool you—each one is essential to making Easy Lemon Curd the best it can be. Here’s how each plays a role in that luxurious texture and unforgettable flavor.

• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the curd and balances the lemon’s bold, tart flavor. It also helps achieve that perfectly silky texture.
• Large eggs: The real magic-makers here! Eggs thicken the curd, giving it that dreamy, spoonable richness you crave.
• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed): The star of the show. Squeeze your own lemons for the brightest, cleanest lemon flavor—and don’t forget the zest for even more zing.
• Butter: Adds creaminess and a glossy, luscious finish, making every spoonful extra indulgent.

Variations

This Easy Lemon Curd is endlessly adaptable! Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it—whether you want to tweak the flavor profile, make it lighter, or adjust for dietary preferences, you have options galore.

• Lime or Orange Curd: Swap out lemon juice for lime or orange for a tangy change of pace—just as luscious, but with a new citrus twist.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use a vegan butter substitute in place of regular butter for a plant-based option that still turns out silky-smooth.
• Less Sweet: Reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or two if you prefer your curd extra tart for a puckery punch.
• Herb Infusion: Add a sprig of fresh thyme, basil, or even lavender while cooking for a subtle herbal note that feels gourmet.

How to Make Easy Lemon Curd

Step 1: Whisk Eggs and Sugar

Grab a large heatproof bowl and whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs on high speed. Take your time—about two or three minutes—until the mixture is pale, light, and fully blended. This initial whisk will set the stage for a smooth, lump-free Easy Lemon Curd.

Step 2: Set Up Your Double Boiler

Place your mixing bowl over a pot of simmering (not boiling) water. The key is to make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water—gentle heat is your friend here and prevents scrambling the eggs. This indirect cooking helps ensure a silky texture.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice and Butter

Now’s the moment for that magical lemony transformation! Stir in the lemon juice and the butter. Keep your heat at medium so things stay smooth and controlled—too hot and you’ll risk curdling, but steady heat will coax out velvety perfection.

Step 4: Stir Constantly Until Thickened

With a spatula or wooden spoon, stir the mixture gently and continuously. After about 10 minutes, you’ll notice it thickens to a soft, spreadable consistency—almost like soft pudding. That’s how you’ll know your Easy Lemon Curd is ready for its jar!

Step 5: Cool, Store, and Enjoy

Spoon the finished curd into a sterilized jar. Once it cools to room temperature, pop it into the fridge. It’ll thicken a bit more as it chills, turning into that familiar creamy spread perfect for countless treats.

How to Serve Easy Lemon Curd

Garnishes

Give your Easy Lemon Curd a pretty finish! Scatter berries (like raspberries or blueberries) on top, add a sprig of mint, or dust it with a little grated lemon zest for extra color and a pop of aroma—perfect for when presentation matters.

Side Dishes

The possibilities are mouthwatering: serve your lemon curd alongside warm scones, fluffy pancakes, or crisp toast. It’s also dreamy layered with Greek yogurt and granola for a simple but sophisticated parfait.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Easy Lemon Curd into a centerpiece! Fill tiny glass jars for sweet party favors, swirl it atop pavlova, or use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies or tartlets—your guests will want the recipe every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Easy Lemon Curd has cooled, stash it in an airtight jar in the fridge. It’ll stay irresistibly fresh for up to three weeks, so you can enjoy a spoonful whenever the craving hits!

Freezing

To keep a stash for longer, transfer cooled curd to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It’ll freeze happily for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready for that burst of lemon sunshine.

Reheating

Lemon curd is best served cold or at room temperature, but if you need to soften it, simply let it stand at room temperature for a bit. Avoid microwaving, which can make it separate or become grainy—gentle is always better!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like making your own Easy Lemon Curd at home—one taste and you’ll see why it’s an instant mood-lifter, perfect for any day of the week. Give it a try, and let this sweet-tart treat add a little bit of sunshine to everything you bake, spread, or simply eat by the spoonful!

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