Description
This Homemade Lemon Curd is tangy, creamy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, filling pastries, or simply enjoying by the spoonful. With just a few ingredients, you can create a luscious, silky curd that’s rich in citrus zest.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 5 lemons)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Add lemon juice: Slowly whisk in the fresh lemon juice, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Cook the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly. Once it begins to simmer and thicken (about 5-7 minutes), reduce the heat to low.
- Temper the eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. Gradually add a small amount of the hot lemon mixture to the eggs while whisking constantly to temper them. Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining lemon mixture, whisking continuously.
- Continue cooking: Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for 2-3 more minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to the consistency of pudding.
- Add butter and lemon rind: Remove from the heat and stir in the butter and grated lemon rind until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Cool: Let the lemon curd cool at room temperature or refrigerate it for a firmer texture. Once cooled, transfer to a jar or airtight container.
Notes
- This lemon curd can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- To prevent a skin from forming, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the curd while it cools.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Sauce, Dessert, Spread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, British
Keywords: Lemon curd, homemade lemon curd, lemon spread, citrus curd, lemon dessert