Creamiest Lemon Curd Recipe

The Creamiest Lemon Curd Recipe is a delightful and luxurious dessert spread, renowned for its rich, velvety texture and vibrant, tangy flavor. This recipe is an artful blend of simple ingredients: fresh lemons, sugar, butter, and eggs.

The process begins by zesting the lemons, ensuring to capture the bright, aromatic oils from their skins while avoiding the bitter white pith. This zest, along with freshly squeezed lemon juice, imparts the curd with its signature, zesty lemon flavor. The juice and zest are then gently warmed, melding their acidic brightness.

In a separate bowl, eggs and sugar are whisked until they transform into a pale, fluffy mixture. This step is crucial, as it introduces air into the eggs, aiding in achieving the curd’s creamy consistency. The eggs and sugar are then gradually combined with the warm lemon mixture, creating an emulsion that balances the tartness of the lemons with the sweetness of the sugar.

The mixture is returned to a low heat, where the magic of transformation occurs. Here, patience is key. Constant stirring prevents the eggs from curdling while the mixture slowly thickens to a lush, spreadable consistency. The moment it coats the back of a spoon marks the perfect thickness.

Finally, cubes of unsalted butter are whisked in off the heat. The butter melts, lending an opulent richness and a silky-smooth texture that makes this lemon curd stand out. This final addition of butter also gives the curd a glossy sheen, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

The resulting lemon curd is a harmonious balance of sweet and tart, with a luxurious texture that feels indulgent on the palate. It’s versatile, perfect as a spread for scones, a filling for cakes and tarts, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful. The creamiest lemon curd is not just a recipe but an experience, a testament to the culinary magic that can be created from the simplest of ingredients.

Ingredients:

3 large eggs

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1/4 cup butter, room temperature, cut into pieces

Preparation:

Whisk eggs and sugar in a medium saucepan until well combined.

Mix in lemon juice and zest until smooth.

Add butter and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).

Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl.

Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the curd surface to prevent skin formation.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.

This Creamiest Lemon Curd recipe is versatile. Spread it on scones, toast, or muffins for a delightful breakfast, or use it as a filling in cakes, tarts, or macarons. Its rich, creamy texture and vibrant flavor are sure to make it a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and discover the many delicious ways to enjoy this classic spread.

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