Homemade Lemon Curd

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Few things brighten up a kitchen like the scent of fresh lemons simmering gently on the stove. Homemade Lemon Curd is the kind of recipe that instantly lifts your spirits and feels like sunshine in a jar. Whether spread on a warm biscuit, swirled into yogurt, or used as a filling for cakes and tarts, it brings a burst of citrusy delight to every bite.

Unlike store-bought versions, this lemon curd is made with real ingredients and no artificial aftertaste. It’s smooth, silky, and just the right balance of tart and sweet. If you’ve never made your own before, you may be surprised at how easy it is. Once you taste it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it over and over again.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Lemon Curd

This lemon curd is luxurious in texture, rich in flavor, and refreshingly bright. It’s made with just a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. The recipe comes together quickly, and it’s incredibly versatile. Use it for breakfast, dessert, or as a gift in a pretty jar. It also keeps well in the fridge for a couple of weeks, making it perfect for planning ahead.

What Kind of Lemons Should I Use?

For the brightest flavor, use fresh lemons. Meyer lemons will give you a slightly sweeter, floral taste, while regular lemons provide that classic, sharp citrus bite. Make sure to zest your lemons before juicing them—you’ll want both the juice and the zest for maximum flavor in this curd. Avoid bottled lemon juice as it lacks the freshness that makes this recipe shine.

Ingredients for the Homemade Lemon Curd

The beauty of this lemon curd lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that luscious, silky texture and bright, tangy flavor.

Egg yolks give the curd its rich, creamy base and help thicken it to the perfect consistency.

Granulated sugar balances the tartness of the lemon and adds the sweetness that makes the curd irresistible.

Lemon zest provides aromatic oils that enhance the flavor far more than juice alone ever could.

Fresh lemon juice is the star ingredient, offering that zippy, citrus punch that’s essential to lemon curd.

Unsalted butter adds a silky smooth finish and gives the curd a lovely sheen and depth.

How To Make the Homemade Lemon Curd

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by separating the egg yolks and zesting your lemons. Then juice them until you have about half a cup of fresh juice. Cut the butter into small cubes and set everything nearby so the process goes smoothly.

Step 2: Whisk Over Gentle Heat

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Set the pan over medium-low heat and continue whisking constantly. Be patient—you want to cook the mixture slowly to avoid curdling.

Step 3: Watch for Thickening

As the mixture heats up, it will begin to thicken. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t stop stirring!

Step 4: Add the Butter

Once thickened, remove the pan from heat and stir in the butter pieces one at a time. Stir until each piece melts fully before adding the next. This step creates the luxurious, velvety finish that makes lemon curd so special.

Step 5: Strain and Cool

Strain the curd through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the zest and any small bits of egg. This ensures a perfectly smooth texture. Let it cool slightly, then transfer to a jar or airtight container. Chill for at least 2 hours before using.

How to Serve and Store Homemade Lemon Curd

This recipe yields enough to serve about 8 people generously, depending on how it’s used. Keep your lemon curd stored in the refrigerator in a sealed jar or container, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. If you’re planning to use it as a tart filling or cake layer, make it a day ahead so it sets nicely.

You can also freeze lemon curd for longer storage—up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and give it a stir before serving.

What to Serve With Homemade Lemon Curd?

Flaky Croissants

Slather lemon curd inside a warm croissant for an easy brunch treat.

Buttermilk Pancakes

Drizzle it over a stack of fluffy pancakes instead of syrup for a zesty twist.

Cheesecake

Swirl lemon curd on top of a classic cheesecake for a tangy layer that balances the richness.

Scones

It’s practically made to be paired with fresh, warm scones and clotted cream.

Greek Yogurt

Add a spoonful to a bowl of Greek yogurt and granola for a quick, flavorful breakfast.

Pound Cake

Use it as a glaze or filling for slices of simple pound cake.

Ice Cream

Top a scoop of vanilla or berry ice cream with a ribbon of lemon curd for contrast.

Tart Shells

Spoon lemon curd into baked tart shells and top with berries for an elegant dessert.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Citrus Kick?

If you’re a citrus lover, these treats will brighten your menu any time of year:

• Delicious Lemon Cake to Die For when you’re in the mood for soft cake with bold lemon flavor.
• Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze for a fruity and tangy twist.
• No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie when you want something refreshing and simple.
• Orange Crush Sherbet if you’re craving a frozen treat.
• Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Salad for a savory way to use lemon in your mains.

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Let me know in the comments how you used your lemon curd! Did you fill a tart or pair it with breakfast? I love seeing the creative ways you make these recipes your own.

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