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A vibrant jar of homemade zesty lemon curd garnished with lemon zest and surrounded by fresh lemons on a rustic wooden table.

Irresistible Zesty Lemon Curd: Your New Favorite Italian Dessert!

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Discover the irresistible charm of Zesty Lemon Curd, an authentic Italian dessert that combines vibrant citrus flavor with smooth, velvety texture. Perfect for topping tarts, spreading on scones, or enjoying straight from the spoon, this lemon curd elevates any sweet treat with its bright, tangy profile. Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, this recipe embodies the essence of traditional Italian dessert craftsmanship, offering a versatile and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: about 1 cup

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Start by zesting the lemons thoroughly and then juice them. Set aside the lemon juice and zest for the subsequent steps.
  2. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This forms the base of your lemon curd.
  3. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method). Gradually add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and cubed butter, stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture thickens and reaches a custard-like consistency—about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Pour the hot curd through a fine sieve to ensure a silky smooth texture. Let it cool and then transfer to sterilized jars for storage.

Notes

  • Always use fresh lemons for vibrant flavor and aroma.
  • Whisk continuously during cooking to prevent curdling and overheating.
  • Keep the heat low and slow for a smooth, velvety texture.
  • Store your lemon curd in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop, Double boiler
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 80 Kcal
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 0.3g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg