Name: Lemon Curd Recipe: Smooth and Tangy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cubed); 1/8 tsp salt; Optional: Lemon slice (zest curls); Suggested Pairings: Scones (tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Lemon Curd is a classic, versatile spread, perfect for desserts, breakfast toasts, or gifting. This smooth, tangy curd, featuring fresh lemon juice and zest, delivers bright, citrusy flavors in every spoonful. Presented in a white ceramic jar or bowl, garnished with a lemon slice or zest curls, this Lemon Curd offers a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any occasion. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing spread that brings zesty, creamy charm to any dish.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Curd:

3/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 4–5 lemons)
1 tbsp lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/8 tsp salt

For Serving:

Optional: Lemon slice, lemon zest curls
Suggested Accompaniments: Scones, toast, yogurt
Suggested Pairings: Fresh berries, tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic jar or bowl
Suggested Equipment: Medium saucepan, whisk, zester, juicer, fine-mesh strainer, heatproof bowl, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and salt until fully combined.
Cook Curd: Add butter pieces and cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (reaching about 160°F/71°C). Do not let it boil.
Taste and Adjust: Taste a small spoonful (once cooled slightly) and add sugar for sweetness or lemon juice for tanginess to ensure a balanced flavor.
Strain: Pour the curd through a fine-mesh strainer into a heatproof bowl to remove zest and any cooked egg bits, creating a smooth texture.
Cool and Store: Let the curd cool slightly, then transfer to a white ceramic jar or bowl. Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
Serve: Garnish with a lemon slice or zest curls. Serve chilled or at room temperature with scones, toast, yogurt, fresh berries, or tea.

Tips for Better Lemon Curd

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest, most vibrant flavor; bottled juice lacks depth.
Taste the curd before cooling to balance sweetness and tanginess, as lemon potency varies.
Whisk constantly while cooking to prevent curdling or scrambling the eggs.
Strain the curd for a silky, smooth texture, removing zest or egg solids.
Use a white ceramic jar or bowl for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the sunny curd and colorful garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare and refrigerate up to 1 week; stir before serving.
Check thickness; if too thin, cook slightly longer; if too thick, whisk in a splash of lemon juice.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic jar with a lemon slice or zest curls for a bright, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Lemon Curd: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Vegan Lemon Curd: Replace eggs with 1/4 cup cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water, use vegan margarine instead of butter, and increase sugar to 1 cup.
Low-Sugar Lemon Curd: Reduce sugar to 1/2 cup and use a sugar substitute for the remainder.
Lime Curd: Replace lemon juice and zest with lime juice and zest for a tropical twist.
Orange Curd: Use orange juice and zest instead of lemon; reduce sugar to 2/3 cup due to orange’s sweetness.
Lemon Lavender Curd: Add 1/2 tsp dried culinary lavender during cooking; strain out with the zest.
Spiced Lemon Curd: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or ginger for warmth.
Meyer Lemon Curd: Use Meyer lemon juice and zest for a sweeter, floral flavor.

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for up to 1 week; stir before serving.
Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container; thaw in the fridge overnight and stir well.
Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Use as a spread for scones, filling for cakes, or topping for yogurt and pancakes.
Pair with fresh berries or tea to complement the tangy, citrusy flavor.
Presented in a white ceramic jar or bowl with vibrant garnishes for a bright, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 12 servings (2 tbsp each):

Calories: 140 kcal
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 40mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 13g
Protein: 2g
Vitamin A: 6% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 10% Daily Value
Calcium: 2% Daily Value
Iron: 2% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. High in sugar; pair with fruit or yogurt for balance.

Conclusion

This Lemon Curd recipe offers a smooth, tangy spread, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a citrusy classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The creamy texture and zesty flavor delight every spoonful. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its refreshing, versatile appeal.