Silky Lemon Curd Delight
Indulge in the tangy sweetness of this Silky Lemon Curd Delight. This versatile lemon curd recipe is perfect for adding a zesty kick to your favorite desserts. Made with fresh lemon juice and zesty lemon rind, this curd balances brightness and sweetness, resulting in a smooth texture that's heavenly. Use it as a luscious topping for pancakes, as a filling for tarts or pastries, or simply enjoy it on its own. Impress your friends and family with this delightful treat, perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing addition to your dessert table.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh lemon juice
1 cup (Juiced from fresh lemons)
Lemon zest
Zest of 2 lemons (Finely grated)
Granulated sugar
1 cup (No preparation needed)
Large eggs
6 (Beaten)
Unsalted butter
12 tablespoons (Cut into small pieces)
Instructions
1
In a 2-quart heavy saucepan, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, and beaten eggs until fully combined.
2
Add the cut pieces of unsalted butter to the mixture, and place the saucepan over moderate-low heat.
3
Continuously whisk the mixture as it heats, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the saucepan. Cook until the curd thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
4
Once thickened, remove the curd from heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to eliminate any pieces of cooked egg.
5
Cover the surface of the strained lemon curd with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until it is completely cold.
6
Once chilled, the lemon curd is ready to serve. Use it as a filling for tarts, spread it over scones or toast, or layer it in cakes or pastries for a delightful citrus burst.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Silky Lemon Curd Delight?
It is a versatile and smooth dessert curd that balances tangy lemon brightness with sweetness, perfect as a topping or filling.
How much lemon juice is required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, juiced from fresh lemons.
How much lemon zest should I use?
You should use the finely grated zest of 2 lemons.
How many eggs are needed for the lemon curd?
The recipe calls for 6 large eggs that have been beaten.
What type of butter is used in this recipe?
Use 12 tablespoons of unsalted butter, cut into small pieces.
What kind of sugar is recommended?
1 cup of granulated sugar is used to provide the perfect amount of sweetness.
What size saucepan is best for cooking the curd?
A 2-quart heavy saucepan is recommended for whisking the ingredients together.
At what heat should the lemon curd be cooked?
The curd should be cooked over moderate-low heat.
How long does it take for the curd to thicken?
It typically takes approximately 6 to 8 minutes of continuous whisking.
How can I tell when the lemon curd is finished cooking?
The curd is ready when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Why do I need to strain the lemon curd?
Straining the curd through a fine-mesh sieve helps eliminate any small pieces of cooked egg for a smooth texture.
How long does the curd need to chill before serving?
It should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until it is completely cold.
Why should I cover the curd with plastic wrap while chilling?
Covering the surface directly with plastic wrap prevents a skin from forming on the curd.
Can I use this lemon curd as a topping?
Yes, it makes a luscious topping for pancakes, scones, or toast.
Is this curd suitable for filling tarts?
Absolutely, it is perfect for filling tarts, pastries, or layering in cakes.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 8 servings.
Is this a good recipe for summer events?
Yes, its zesty and refreshing flavor makes it an ideal addition to summer gatherings.
What is the texture of this lemon curd?
The curd has a smooth, silky, and heavenly texture.
What are the primary flavor notes?
The curd features a balance of bright citrus tartness and sweet granulated sugar.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
The recipe specifies fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and brightness.
What should I do while the curd is heating?
You must continuously whisk the mixture, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the pan.
Is there any preparation needed for the granulated sugar?
No preparation is needed for the sugar; it is whisked directly into the liquid ingredients.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized as a Dessert.
What ingredients are combined first?
Whisk together the lemon juice, zest, sugar, and beaten eggs before adding the butter.
Can I use this for breakfast items?
Yes, it is excellent spread over scones or toast for a citrus burst.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and butter.
Is the lemon zest finely grated?
Yes, the recipe specifies finely grated lemon zest.
What makes the curd 'silky'?
The combination of constant whisking, adding butter, and straining the final mixture results in a silky texture.
Can this be used in pastries?
Yes, it is specifically noted as a great filling for various pastries.
Is this a homemade recipe?
Yes, it is a zesty homemade lemon curd delight.