I’ve been making lemon curd in the microwave for years, and it’s become a staple in our household. It’s a classic British dessert that’s been around for centuries, but I’ve adapted it to make it quick and easy to prepare in the microwave. The result is a tangy and sweet spread that’s perfect for topping toast, using as a cake filling, or serving as a dessert on its own. My kids love helping me make lemon curd, and they’re always excited to taste the final product.
They love the way the lemon zest adds a burst of citrus flavor to each bite. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good excuse to use up lemons? We always have a bunch on hand, and this recipe is a great way to use them up. I’ve experimented with different variations of this recipe over the years, but I always come back to this basic one.
It’s simple, yet delicious. And the best part is that it’s ready in just 10-15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dessert or snack. One of the things I love about lemon curd is its versatility. You can serve it on its own, use it as a filling for cakes and pastries, or even mix it with whipped cream for a delicious topping.
And if you’re feeling fancy, you can always add some fresh berries or nuts to give it an extra boost of flavor. As for the health benefits of lemon curd, I’m happy to report that it’s not as bad for you as you might think. While it does contain sugar and butter, the lemons add a nice dose of vitamin C and antioxidants. And if you’re using fresh lemons, you’ll get even more health benefits from the citrus juice.
I’ve also experimented with using different types of sugar in this recipe. Some people swear by using honey or maple syrup for their sweetness fix. But I prefer to stick with good old-fashioned granulated sugar – it adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
Microwave Lemon Curd
4.6 from 1310 votes
This quick lemon curd is made entirely in the microwave, saving time and effort. It has a bright, tangy flavor and a smooth, creamy texture perfect for tarts, scones, or as a spread.
Servings: 1 cupCuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal per tablespoon
🥘Ingredients
For the Lemon Curd
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 pinch salt
👨🍳Directions
1In a large microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and salt until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
2Whisk thoroughly to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated, which prevents scrambling during cooking.
3Add the butter pieces to the bowl and microwave on high power for 1 minute.
4Remove the bowl and whisk vigorously until the butter is melted and the mixture looks smooth again.
5Continue microwaving on high in 30-second intervals, whisking well after each interval.
6After about 3 to 4 total minutes of cooking, the curd will thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon and leave a clear trail when you drag your finger through it.
7The temperature should reach about 170°F if measured with a thermometer.
8Immediately pour the hot curd through a fine-mesh strainer set over a clean bowl or glass jar to remove any cooked egg bits and the lemon zest.
9Press gently with a spatula to extract all the curd, then discard the solids.
10Let the curd cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
11Once cool, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set and chilled.
For a smoother curd, use a fine-mesh strainer after cooking. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This curd also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Watch Video Of How Microwave Lemon Curd Works
I love how versatile lemon curd is – whether you’re serving it as a dessert on its own or using it as a cake filling, there are countless ways to enjoy this delicious spread. One of my favorite ideas is to serve lemon curd alongside some fresh fruit or whipped cream – not only does it look pretty on the plate, but the contrasting textures and flavors add an extra layer of enjoyment to each bite.
If you do end up with leftover lemon curd (which is rare!) , consider storing it in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to use it again.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Microwave Lemon Curd
Q: What type of lemons should I use for this recipe?
A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use fresh lemons that are heavy for their size and have a bright yellow color. The most commonly available varieties are Eureka or Lisbon lemons – they’re both great options.
Q: Can I make this recipe without using butter?
A: While butter does add a richness and depth of flavor to this recipe, you can definitely make it without using any dairy products at all. Simply substitute in some vegan butter or margarine instead.
Q: How do I store leftover lemon curd?
A: Leftover lemon curd can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you don’t plan on using it within that time frame, consider freezing it instead – simply scoop out small portions into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid.
Q: Can I make this recipe with bottled lemon juice?
A: While bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch, I highly recommend using fresh lemons instead whenever possible. The flavor just isn’t the same when you’re using bottled juice – plus, there are no preservatives added!
Q: Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
A: Yes – this recipe is completely gluten-free! Just be sure to check your ingredients carefully if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease or another gluten intolerance condition.
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