Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
- 6 large egg yolks
- 7 tablespoons lemon juice (100mL), strained
- ½ cup unsalted cold butter (113g), cubed
Instructions
- Zesting the Lemons: Zest two lemons. For intense lemon flavor, pulse the lemon zest and sugar together in a food processor to extract the oils, but this step is optional.
- Juicing the Lemons: Squeeze the lemons until you collect about 7 tablespoons (100mL) of lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove any seeds.
- Preparing the Egg Mixture: Strain the six egg yolks into a medium pot and lightly beat them with a wire whisk. Whisk in the sugar and mix well until the mixture lightens in color. Gradually stir in the lemon juice.
- Cooking the Curd: Heat the pot over low heat, stirring constantly with a wire whisk. Cook until the mixture thickens, just begins to bubble, and coats the back of a wooden spoon, ensuring not to overheat.
- Incorporating the Butter: Remove the pot from the heat and add the cold, cubed butter. Stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
- Straining the Curd (Optional): For a silky smooth texture, strain the lemon curd through a fine mesh sieve to remove any zest bits or solids.
- Cooling and Storing: Transfer the curd to a sealable container or bowl. If using a bowl, cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation. Refrigerate to allow it to fully set and thicken, ideally for at least two hours or overnight before use.
Notes
- The lemon curd thickens and sets completely after refrigeration; ensure it is fully cooled for best consistency when used in cakes or desserts.
- For best flavor and texture, prepare the lemon curd a day or two ahead to allow it to cool and set properly without rush.
- Store lemon curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Once fully cooled, plastic wrap pressed on the surface is unnecessary if the container has an airtight lid.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
