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Zesty Lemon Curd

Zesty Lemon Curd recipe image
This classic Zesty Lemon Curd is the ultimate bright addition to any brunch table or dessert platter. Made with simple pantry staples like fresh lemon juice, sweetened with sugar, and enriched with butter, it cooks down into a luxuriously smooth, vibrant yellow custard. The flavor is intensely citrusy yet balanced by sweetness, offering a tangy kick that cuts through rich creams and baked goods beautifully. Perfect for spreading on warm scones, dolloping over vanilla ice cream, or using as a luscious filling for tarts and cupcakes. Its glossy texture and refreshing taste make it a timeless favorite for both casual weekend breakfasts and elegant afternoon tea spreads.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 3
Calories: 987.5
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian
Description
This classic Zesty Lemon Curd is the ultimate bright addition to any brunch table or dessert platter. Made with simple pantry staples like fresh lemon juice, sweetened with sugar, and enriched with butter, it cooks down into a luxuriously smooth, vibrant yellow custard. The flavor is intensely citrusy yet balanced by sweetness, offering a tangy kick that cuts through rich creams and baked goods beautifully. Perfect for spreading on warm scones, dolloping over vanilla ice cream, or using as a luscious filling for tarts and cupcakes. Its glossy texture and refreshing taste make it a timeless favorite for both casual weekend breakfasts and elegant afternoon tea spreads.
Ingredients
  • 3 large Eggs
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup Fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, cubed and softened
  • 1 tbsp Lemon zest
Directions
  1. 1
    Whisk eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest together in a heatproof bowl until smooth and well combined.
  2. 2
    Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
  3. 3
    Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, about 10-15 minutes.
  4. 4
    Remove from heat and immediately whisk in the cubed butter until fully melted and incorporated.
  5. 5
    Strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bowl to ensure a silky smooth texture.
  6. 6
    Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the curd to prevent a skin from forming.
  7. 7
    Refrigerate until completely cool and set before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 3

Amount Per Serving
Calories 987.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 54.2g84%
Saturated Fat 31.4g157%
Cholesterol 401.8mg134%
Sodium 459.1mg20%
Total Carbohydrate 120.9g41%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 120.9g
Protein 10.3g21%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

Tip: Ensure the butter is softened but not melted before adding it to the hot curd for easier incorporation.

Variation: Swap lemon juice and zest for lime or orange to create different citrus curds.

Serving Suggestion: Delicious spread on scones, biscuits, or toast, or used as a filling for tarts, cakes, and cupcakes.

Keywords: lemon, curd, citrus, spread, filling, dessert, brunch, preserve, tangy, smooth, homemade, confection, pastry, condiment, zesty, custard, sweet, fresh, yellow, glaze
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/zesty-lemon-curd/