How to Make Chef Johns Lighter Lemon Curd in 15 Minutes

Updated
2 min read

Chef johns lighter lemon curd –Discover the delightful recipe for lemon curd, a bright and zesty dessert that adds a burst of sunshine to your day. Perfect for spreading over toast, filling pastries, or even enjoying by the spoonful, this lemon curd is a must-try! Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to bring this vibrant treat to life.

Lemon Curd – A Zesty Delight

This lemon curd recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you can create a creamy and tangy treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Lemon Curd - Once Upon a Chef

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Instructions

  1. Begin by whisking together the sugar, eggs, and egg yolks in a medium saucepan until well combined. This mixture should look smooth and light in color.
  2. Next, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest (if using). Keep stirring until the mixture is evenly blended.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat, and continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly. You want to cook it until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, as that could cook the eggs too quickly and ruin the curd.
  4. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the pieces of unsalted butter. Stir until the butter is completely melted and incorporated into the lemon mixture.
  5. Pour the lemon curd through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any bits of cooked egg or zest, ensuring a silky-smooth texture.
  6. Let the lemon curd cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the curd to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using, allowing it to firm up.

Once chilled, your lemon curd is ready to be enjoyed! Use it as a spread, in desserts, or simply savor it on its own. This tangy treat is versatile and will elevate any dish it graces. Enjoy your homemade lemon curd!