If you’re looking for a deliciously smooth, tangy, and sweet spread or filling, then this easy lemon curd is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. Made with simple ingredients like fresh lemons, eggs, and butter, this lemon curd is the perfect balance of tart and sweet, ideal for spreading on toast, filling pastries, or even enjoying by the spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and quick this lemon curd is to make. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a rich and flavorful spread that adds a burst of freshness to any dish. The combination of eggs, butter, and fresh lemon juice results in a creamy, silky texture that is incredibly versatile. Whether I’m using it as a topping for cakes, a filling for tarts, or just enjoying it on a piece of toast, this lemon curd never fails to impress. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to make, making it an effortless treat that elevates any recipe!
Ingredients
3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
Zest of 2 lemons
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
Pinch of salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
In a medium saucepan, I whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth.
I add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan, then stir everything together.
I place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, whisking constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which takes about 8-10 minutes.
Once the curd has thickened, I remove it from the heat and immediately whisk in the butter cubes until fully incorporated and smooth.
I strain the lemon curd through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lemon zest or cooked egg bits, leaving a silky-smooth curd.
I let the curd cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 2 hours before using.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
I can easily change up the flavor of my lemon curd by adding other citrus fruits like orange or lime. Just swap out some of the lemon juice and zest for the new fruit juice and zest to create a citrus twist. For a richer flavor, I sometimes add a dash of vanilla extract, or even a spoonful of honey for a touch of floral sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
I store my lemon curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh for about 1-2 weeks. If I want to make it last even longer, I can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When I want to use it again, I simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If I need to warm it up, I do so gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
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FAQs
How can I make my lemon curd thicker?
If the curd isn’t thickening enough, I would recommend cooking it a bit longer on medium heat while stirring constantly. Be sure to test by running a spoon through it—the curd should coat the back of the spoon and hold its shape.
Can I make lemon curd with bottled lemon juice?
I recommend using fresh lemon juice for the best flavor, as bottled lemon juice can have a different taste. Fresh lemons provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor that makes a big difference in this recipe.
Can I use salted butter for this lemon curd?
I prefer unsalted butter for this recipe, as it gives me better control over the seasoning. However, if I only have salted butter on hand, I just skip the pinch of salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting the curd.
How do I know when my lemon curd is done cooking?
The curd is ready when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. If I run my finger through the curd on the spoon, the line should stay clear. If it doesn’t, I keep cooking it for a little longer.
Can I use this lemon curd as a filling for cakes?
Yes! I love using lemon curd as a filling for cakes or tarts. It adds a bright, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with rich buttercream or cream cheese frosting.
Conclusion
This easy lemon curd is a must-try recipe if you love bright, zesty flavors. It’s quick, simple, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for spreading, filling, or just enjoying on its own. With its smooth texture and perfect balance of sweetness and tang, I know it’s sure to become a staple in my kitchen. Whether I’m using it for a special dessert or as a treat for myself, this lemon curd never disappoints.
📖 Recipe:
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Easy Lemon Curd
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy lemon curd recipe is a quick and simple way to create a tangy, creamy spread that adds brightness to any dish. Made with fresh lemons, eggs, sugar, and butter, it offers a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, filling pastries, or using it as a cake or tart filling, this smooth lemon curd is a must-try for citrus lovers.
Ingredients
3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
Zest of 2 lemons
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
Pinch of salt
Instructions
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In a medium saucepan, whisk the eggs and sugar until smooth.
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Add the lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together.
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Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, for about 8-10 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
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Remove from heat and whisk in the butter cubes until fully incorporated.
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Strain the lemon curd through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any zest or cooked egg bits.
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Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours before using.
Notes
For variations, add other citrus fruits like orange or lime to change the flavor.
Add vanilla extract or a spoonful of honey for a richer taste.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Spread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 90 kcal
