LEMON CURD

Forget the store-bought stuff! Homemade lemon curd is a revelation – a vibrant, tangy, and velvety smooth treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just five simple ingredients, you can whip up this luscious spread in about 10 minutes. Perfect for scones, pancakes, cakes, or just a spoonful straight from the jar, this recipe will transform your dessert game.

What is Lemon Curd, Exactly?

Lemon curd is a rich and creamy concoction, bursting with the bright, tart flavor of fresh lemons, balanced by the sweetness of sugar and the richness of butter. It’s similar to a smooth, lemon-flavored jam, but with a much more decadent texture. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or simply a fan of citrus flavors, homemade lemon curd is an absolute must-try.  

Why Ditch the Jar and Make Your Own?

Homemade lemon curd reigns supreme over its store-bought counterpart. The difference in flavor and freshness is undeniable. Free from preservatives and artificial additives, homemade curd delivers a pure, bright lemon flavor and a smooth, luxurious texture. Once you taste the real deal, you’ll never go back to the jarred version. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make with just a handful of common ingredients.

Gathering Your Ingredients

This recipe calls for only five key ingredients:

• Egg Yolks (4 large): These provide the richness and thickening power for the curd. For an even thicker curd, you can substitute one whole egg for two of the yolks.  
   
• Granulated Sugar (2/3 cup or 134g): This balances the tartness of the lemons and adds the necessary sweetness.  
   
• Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon): This adds a concentrated burst of lemon flavor. Be sure to zest finely to avoid large pieces of peel.  
   
• Fresh Lemon Juice (1/3 cup or 80ml): Freshly squeezed juice is essential for the best, most vibrant flavor. Avoid bottled juice, as it won’t deliver the same results.  
   
• Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons or 85g): This adds a smooth, velvety texture and a rich, indulgent quality to the curd.  
   
• Salt (1/8 teaspoon): A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.  
   

Step-by-Step Guide to Lemon Curd Perfection

1. Setting Up Your Double Boiler:

Fill the bottom pot of your double boiler with 1-2 inches of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. This indirect heat is crucial for preventing the egg yolks from scrambling.

2. Combining the Ingredients:

In the top pot of your double boiler, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt until well combined and the sugar is dissolved.

3. Cooking the Curd:

Continuously whisk the mixture as it cooks. This constant motion prevents curdling and ensures a smooth texture. After about 10 minutes, the curd will begin to thicken, resembling the consistency of hollandaise sauce. If it’s not thickening as expected, you can slightly increase the heat while continuing to whisk.  

4. Adding the Butter:

Once the curd has reached your desired thickness, remove the pot from the heat. Gradually whisk in the softened butter, one piece at a time, until it’s fully incorporated and the curd is smooth and glossy.

5. Cooling and Storing:

Transfer the lemon curd to a clean jar or bowl. To prevent a skin from forming, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the curd. Let it cool to room temperature, then remove the plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 10 days. The curd will continue to thicken as it cools.  

Expert Tips for Lemon Curd Success

• Freshness is Key: Use the freshest lemon juice, zest, and eggs you can find for the best flavor and texture.
• Whisking is Crucial: Constant whisking is the most important step to prevent scrambled eggs and ensure a smooth, creamy curd.
• DIY Double Boiler: If you don’t have a double boiler, you can create one by placing a heatproof glass bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water.  
   

Enjoying Your Homemade Lemon Curd

The possibilities are endless! Use your homemade lemon curd as a topping for cakes, tarts, pancakes, or waffles. It’s also a fantastic filling for pastries like lemon meringue pie or a delightful spread on toast or scones. The bright, refreshing flavor of lemon curd makes it a versatile ingredient for all kinds of sweet treats.