Lemon Curd Recipe

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Introduction
Lemon curd is a bright, tangy, and creamy spread made from fresh lemons, sugar, eggs, and butter. It’s perfect for filling tarts, topping scones, layering in cakes, or simply spreading on toast. This homemade version is easy to make and tastes far superior to store-bought!

Ingredients

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
  • Zest and juice the lemons. Set aside.
  • Cut the butter into small cubes and keep it chilled until ready to use.
  1. Whisk Eggs and Sugar:
  • In a medium saucepan, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth and slightly pale.
  1. Add Lemon Juice and Zest:
  • Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
  1. Cook the Mixture:
  • Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, until it thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (about 8-10 minutes). Do not let it boil.
  1. Incorporate the Butter:
  • Remove the saucepan from heat. Gradually add the cubed butter, one piece at a time, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
  1. Strain and Cool:
  • For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
  • Cover the surface with plastic wrap (to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor.
  • Low and Slow Cooking: Cook over low heat to avoid curdling the eggs.
  • Strain for Smoothness: Straining removes any bits of cooked egg or zest for a silky texture.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Serving Suggestions

  • Spread on scones, toast, or muffins.
  • Use as a filling for tarts, cakes, or macarons.
  • Layer with yogurt and granola for a parfait.
  • Serve as a dip for fresh berries or cookies.

Nutritional Information (per tablespoon, approximate)

  • Calories: 60
  • Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Protein: 1g

Conclusion
Homemade lemon curd is a versatile and delightful treat that adds a burst of citrus flavor to any dessert or breakfast. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a luxurious spread that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!

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