Lemon curd is one of the easiest recipes to make. It requires only 5 simple ingredients and 15 minutes to make. It's a perfect summertime treat since you can use it for no-bake tarts, layer cakes, or as a topping for ice cream.
In today's post, you will learn just how easy it is to make, along with ingredient notes, a full video tutorial, and all your lemon curd questions answered in our FAQs section below.
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Why You'll Love This Homemade Lemon Curd
Taste and Texture
Lemon curd is sweet and tangy in flavor, creamy and smooth in texture. That's what makes it a wonderful choice for no-bake tarts and pies because once chilled, it sets beautifully. Lemon curd can also be enjoyed rolled in crepes for breakfast, topped on scones with clotted cream, or swirled into ice cream.
Difficulty Level
I cannot stress how easy this recipe comes together. I used to think lemon curd required a lot of eggs and time to whisk away on the stove top, but I could not have been more wrong. I found the right balance for me is two whole eggs and one egg yolk. Given 8-10 minutes on the stovetop, you'll have a thick, delicious custard to be enjoyed.
Preparation Process
There is no preparation process. Everything gets mixed in together at the same time. Like I said, truly one of the most fuss-free recipes I have made.
What You Need for Lemon Curd
The beauty of today's recipe is that it requires 5 ingredients that are accessible pantry staples.
- Fresh Lemons: While there are lots of different types of lemons out there, Meyer lemons are the star of today's show. Arguably less acidic than other variants, this one is always a good choice for desserts.
- Sugar: Obviously, you need something to balance the pungency of the lemon juice and zest.
- Eggs: I like the combination of whole eggs for this curd. If you want a slightly thicker result, egg yolks will provide a richer outcome and brighter color.
- Butter: Unsalted sweet cream butter is a must for any custard and curd. In combination with the eggs, it provides richness and a depth of flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla goes a long way, but I like the undertone it adds to the bright lemon and sweetness.
FAQs for Homemade Lemon Curd
If you're anything like me, you might have a few questions about lemon curd, and I am here to answer them.
When properly stored, lemon curd lasts 1-2 weeks refrigerated. I keep mine in sealed jars (the Kitchn article linked also explains how to properly jar). If stored in an airtight container, you can also freeze it for up to one year.
This happens if you're not continually whisking your curd while cooking it over high heat. It's also a common occurrence with custards. Make sure to lower the heat and keep a watchful eye on it, as lemon curd doesn't take long to cook.
Yes, if a few lumps have formed in your curd, promptly remove it from the heat and strain it through a fine mesh strainer. This should separate the clumps and leave you with a smooth curd.
No! We did not make today's recipe with a double-boiler, and Food52 agrees with us. So if you read that it's not possible to achieve a smooth and creamy curd without a double-boiler, consider that to be a myth.
You absolutely can. Any other citrus fruit works well too. So if you want to try this with a variety of different oranges, grapefruits, even limes, enjoy!
Delicious Ways to Use Lemon Curd 🍋
- Lemon Curd Tartlets are my go-to summer treat. It is a bright dessert that doesn't require long baking periods because let's be honest- turning the oven on in the summer is not our favorite thing to do.
- Ice Cream is another delicious way to enjoy lemon curd. Our No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream is our go-to once summer arrives. Simply swirl the curd through before freezing, and voila- a refreshing, lemony treat awaits!
- Breakfast is another way to enjoy today's recipe, particularly crepes. Follow my basic crepe recipe here and swap the apples for just a dollop of lemon curd.
- Scones are a perfect pairing for lemon curd and fresh cream. I love this for a morning treat on the weekends.
- Cheese Danish is also a lovely way to showcase this curd. Simply swap the blueberry compote with today's curd. It doesn't get any easier.
Homemade Lemon Curd Recipe (5 Ingredients)
Make delicious, silky homemade lemon curd with only 5 simple ingredients from your pantry. It's a taste of summer in each bite!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: English
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice, about 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 whole large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine all the ingredients for the curd.
- Whisk continuously to ensure the curd does not clump. It will thicken quickly, about 8-10 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from the heat. Pour through a fine mesh strainer.
- Let cool before storing in an airtight container to refrigerate.
And that's our Homemade Lemon Curd Recipe. If you enjoyed this recipe, or have any questions or suggestions, be sure to let us know in the comments below. We always love hearing from you!
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Jules says
This lemon curd came out so bright, creamy, and full of fresh lemon flavor. It’s such an easy summer recipe to use for tarts, cakes, or spooned over ice cream.