Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game, your baking adventures, or simply your afternoon tea? Then look no further! This lemon curd recipe, inspired by the delightful techniques of Preppy Kitchen, is your ticket to sunshine in a jar. It's incredibly easy, unbelievably delicious, and perfect for those moments when you crave a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor. This recipe offers a simple, foolproof method for achieving that perfect, silky smooth lemon curd every time. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 4 large eggs
- Zest of 2 lemons
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by zesting your lemons. Be careful to only zest the outer yellow part, avoiding the bitter white pith. Set the zest aside.
- Juice your lemons, aiming for about 1/2 cup. You can always add a little more or less depending on your lemon's juiciness and desired tartness.
Make the Curd:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and lemon juice until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Add the butter and lemon zest to the saucepan.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. This helps prevent scrambling.
- Slowly drizzle about 1/4 of the warm lemon mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. This prevents the eggs from curdling.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture into the saucepan with the remaining lemon mixture.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or spatula. The mixture will thicken gradually. This is crucial – continuous stirring prevents scorching and ensures even cooking. Don't rush this step!
- Continue stirring until the curd is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. It should be thick enough to hold its shape when you lift your spoon.
Finish and Store:
- Remove the curd from the heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any lumps or zest pieces. This step is optional but yields a smoother, more elegant curd.
- Pour the lemon curd into sterilized jars. Allow to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Lemon Curd:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a world of difference in both flavor and brightness.
- Low and slow: Medium-low heat is key. High heat will curdle the eggs. Patience is rewarded with a beautifully smooth curd.
- Stir constantly: Don’t leave the saucepan unattended. Continuous stirring is the secret to preventing lumps and scorching.
- Strain for smoothness: Straining is optional but highly recommended for a truly luxurious texture.
Variations:
- Lime Curd: Simply substitute limes for lemons, using the same quantity of juice and zest.
- Orange Curd: Use oranges instead of lemons for a delightful citrus twist. Adjust sugar to taste, as oranges can be sweeter.
- Berry Curd: Add a cup of your favorite berries (pureed or mashed) during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Protein: Approximately 3-5 grams
This delicious lemon curd is versatile enough to be enjoyed in many ways. Spoon it over scones, use it as a filling for tarts, layer it in cakes, or simply enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream. It's a fantastic homemade addition to your pantry, adding a touch of elegance to any occasion. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!