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Lemon Curd Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 130 reviews

A silky, tangy homemade lemon curd made from fresh lemons, eggs, sugar, and butter. Perfect as a spread, filling, or topping with a rich smooth texture and bright citrus flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • pinch of fine sea salt
  • 1 tsp grated lemon zest (from 1 medium lemon)
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from 3 lemons, strained)
  • 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a medium 2-quart saucepan, combine the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, and a pinch of sea salt. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is well combined, frothy, and lightened in color to incorporate air and ensure smooth texture.
  2. Add Lemon Juice: Whisk in the strained fresh lemon juice until fully blended into the egg mixture, preparing it for gentle cooking.
  3. Cook Lemon Curd: Add the small pieces of unsalted butter to the saucepan and set over low heat. Whisk constantly to prevent curdling and promote even cooking. Cook for about 7-9 minutes until the mixture thickens and reaches 160-170°F. Once it starts simmering gently and thickens to coat the back of a spoon, remove from heat at 175-180°F.
  4. Strain the Mixture: Pour the cooked lemon curd through a fine sieve, stirring inside the sieve with a whisk to push it through faster. Discard any solids left behind for an ultra-smooth curd.
  5. Add Vanilla and Cool: Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor. Allow the lemon curd to cool to room temperature. Then cover and refrigerate until fully set, about several hours. It will keep well for up to one week.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for the best bright citrus flavor and natural tartness.
  • Whisking constantly over low heat prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures a silky texture.
  • Cooking to around 175-180°F is key to achieving the perfect thickness without curdling.
  • Straining the curd after cooking removes any cooked egg bits for a smooth finish.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Keywords: lemon curd, citrus spread, homemade lemon curd, lemon sauce, easy lemon curd recipe

Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/lemon-curd-recipe/