An easy, delicious, and versatile spread that can be used on (and in) everything!

Ingredients
- 1cupgranulated sugar
- 2large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2tspkosher salt
- 2/3cupfresh lemon juice, from 4 to 5 lemons
- 8tbsproom temperature unsalted butter, cubed, divided
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
145.5kcal (7.27%)
Protein
0.5g (1%)
Carbs
22.1g (8.05%)
Sugars
21.6g (43.26%)
Healthy Fat
4.0g
Unhealthy Fat
7.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Homemade Lemon Curd
Whisk together sugar, eggs, salt, and lemon juice in a microwave-safe bowl.
Add 4 tablespoons of butter.
Microwave the mixture in 1-minute intervals, stirring after each, until the curd thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This will take between 4 and 6 minutes.
Remove from microwave and add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter, stirring to combine.
Strain if lumps occur, then store uncovered in the fridge until cool. If not using right away, keep covered in the fridge.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
145.5kcal (7.27%)
Protein
0.5g (1%)
Carbs
22.1g (8.05%)
Sugars
21.6g (43.26%)
Healthy Fat
4.0g
Unhealthy Fat
7.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
For a smoother texture, strain the lemon curd before storing.
Use the freshest lemons for the best flavor.
FAQS
How do I make homemade lemon curd in the microwave?
To make homemade lemon curd in the microwave, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 0.5 tsp of kosher salt, and 0.66 cup of fresh lemon juice in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 4 tablespoons of cubed unsalted butter and microwave the mixture in 1-minute intervals, stirring after each, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which usually takes about 4 to 6 minutes.
Can I make lemon curd without eggs for a vegan option?
Yes, you can make a vegan lemon curd by substituting the eggs with a combination of cornstarch and plant-based milk. Use 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 4 tablespoons of water to replace each egg. This will help achieve a similar thickening effect while keeping the recipe egg-free.
What is the best way to store homemade lemon curd?
Store your homemade lemon curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 1 week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in small portions. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
What can I pair with lemon curd for a delicious dessert?
Lemon curd pairs wonderfully with a variety of desserts. You can spread it on scones, use it as a filling for cakes or tarts, or mix it into yogurt for a refreshing treat. It's also great as a topping for pancakes or waffles!
What are some substitutions for ingredients in lemon curd?
If you don't have granulated sugar, you can use brown sugar for a richer flavor. For the butter, coconut oil can be a good dairy-free alternative. Additionally, if fresh lemons are not available, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh juice will yield a brighter flavor.
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sheri silver
(@sherisilver)
Sheri's passion for sharing the tips and techniques she's acquired after more than 40 years in the kitchen comes to life in her delicious recipes – both savory and sweet - that she likes to describe as “aspirational but always attainable". A lifelong New Yorker, Sheri loves to spend her free time exploring her beloved city (and likely eating a cheeseburger) with her husband and 3 kids. Sheri's passion for sharing the tips and techniques she's acquired after more than 40 years in the kitchen comes to life in her delicious recipes...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia