Lemon Curd Recipe
Lemon Curd Recipe
Welcome to a delightful exploration in the world of citrusy goodness: Lemon Curd. A burst of sweet and tangy flavors, lemon curd is a versatile delight, perfect as a spread for scones, a filling for tarts, or a layer in cakes. Its vibrant color and zesty taste can elevate any dish with a touch of sunshine. Dive into this detailed recipe to master the art of making homemade lemon curd that is smooth, rich, and absolutely delectable.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Medium Saucepan
- Whisk
- Microplane or Zester
- Juicer
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Fine Mesh Sieve
- Heatproof Container for Storage
Ingredients
- 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 160ml (2/3 cup) freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 4-5 lemons)
- Zest of 3 lemons
- 115g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, cubed
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients. Using a microplane or zester, zest the lemons until you have finely grated zest, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith. Juice the lemons until you have 160ml (2/3 cup) of juice, removing any seeds.
Step 2: Combine Sugar and Eggs. In a medium saucepan off the heat, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add Lemon and Cook. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Place the pan over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 8–10 minutes. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
Step 4: Incorporate Butter. Remove the pan from the heat and immediately whisk in the butter cubes until they are completely melted and the curd is smooth.
Step 5: Strain the Curd. For an extra smooth curd, pass the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof container. This removes any unintended zest or bits of cooked egg.
Step 6: Cool and Store. Allow the lemon curd to cool to room temperature before covering it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto its surface. Transfer to the refrigerator where it will continue to thicken as it cools. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Conclusion
Congratulations on creating a velvety, homemade lemon curd that can significantly enhance any meal or dessert! Enjoy its refreshing zesty flavor, whether spread over breakfast pastries or as a luscious filling for your favorite baked goods. The beauty of lemon curd is its simplicity and flexibility, offering a bright, citrus punch that pairs well with innumerable dishes. Keep exploring its possibilities and share your delightful creations with family and friends.