That’s my lemon tree, brimming with juicy, ripe lemons. The tree is so laden with fruit right now that its branches are bent low from the weight. Not only are there lemons galore, but this year, the fruit is perfect. So wonderfully juicy and brightly flavored. So as the saying goes “When life gives you lemons…”
I say “Make Lemon Curd!”
Lemon curd is such a simple treat to whip up and really a perfect condiment to keep in your fridge. Top fresh berries with lemon curd and whipped cream and you have an instant dessert. Swirl it into some sweetened mascarpone cheese and you have a luscious frosting for cupcakes. Spread it on your morning muffin or scone. Top pancakes or waffles with it. Use it to make lemon sandwich cookies out of sugar cookies. The possibilities are endless!
Going to a party? It makes a wonderful hostess gift. Put it into a small jar, add a ribbon and a tag and your party host will be thrilled!
Lemon Curd
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 6 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 stick butter
• 3/4 cup sugar
• Pinch of salt
In a medium saucepan, melt butter. Remove from heat. Add sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest and pinch of salt. Whisk to combine. Add egg yolks and whisk until smooth. Return to stove, and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly. Cook until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 10 minutes. Remove from heat and immediately pour through a fine strainer. Let the curd cool on the counter top, whisking occasionally. The curd will continue to thicken as it cools. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Heidi
April 20th, 2010 at 12:27 pm
I am eating lemon curd on toast right now, it’s my favorite breakfast treat.
I always enjoy the tj brand but yours looks infinitely better!
April 20th, 2010 at 1:23 pm
I didn’t know that sisters were the heart of rsp. Indeed, it is a happy world and I love the fb posts. I’ll give the recipe a try Heidi–thx!
April 22nd, 2010 at 7:25 pm
Trader Joe’s lemon curd is quite good; I’ve bought many a jar myself! But homemade is totally worth it and really not difficult or time consuming at all! Just some patient whisking.
I was having a “moment” last night and needed some sugar and ended up standing at my kitchen sink eating some lemon curd straight out of the jar. Shh! Don’t tell!
April 26th, 2010 at 6:35 am
Oh I love lemon curd! Would you mind if I put this recipe on my site (with full attribution to you of course)?
April 26th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
Krissy
Go for it!
(thanks for checking first and I’m glad you liked the post!)
- Heidi
April 29th, 2010 at 6:10 pm
[...] so happen to have a whole pile of lemons sitting on the counter – ready to be used! Thanks to Heidi who gave me permission to include this recipe on my [...]