Easy Lemon Curd Recipe

3.66 from 38 votes

Smooth, creamy and bursting with citrus goodness, this homemade lemon curd recipe is perfect for adding a refreshing twist to cakes, cookies, and more. Makes approximately 3/4 cup.

Course Dessert

Prep Time 12

Cook Time 8

Total Time 20

Servings

Calories 295kcal

Author Heather Dessinger

Equipment

small pot
whisk
medium mixing bowl
strainer
spoon
glass jar

Ingredients

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1½ tsp lemon zest
½ cup light colored honey
½ tsp vanilla extract (how to make vanilla extract)
2 tbsp butter (or coconut oil if dairy-free)
2 large eggs

Instructions

Combine the lemon juice, zest and honey in a small pot and heat over low heat until the mixture is steaming. Whisk everything together until it is well-combined.
In a medium size bowl, whisk together the eggs.
Gradually, pour the warmed lemon/honey mixture into the bowl with the eggs, whisking constantly.
Rinse out the pot to wash away any pieces of lemon zest, then place a fine mesh strainer over the top. Pour the honey/lemon/egg mixture through the strainer back into the pot.
Place the pot on the stove and set the burner to medium heat. Cook - whisking occasionally - for 6-8 minutes or until the mixture is thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. It should take about 3-5 minutes for the mixture to start simmering - that's what it's supposed to do.
You'll know the curd is ready when you can run a finger across the back of your spoon and the little line that forms doesn't immediately fill in. Don't worry if it's not as thick as you want - it will continue to thicken as it cools.
Once it's ready, give it one last good stir for 15-20 seconds, then remove it from heat and whisk in the vanilla and butter.
Pour into a clean jar and refrigerate until chilled, then serve.

Notes

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