Are you a dessert lover looking for a burst of citrus flavor in your sweet treats? Look no further! Lemon curd is a classic ingredient that adds a tangy and creamy twist to any dessert. From tarts and cakes to cookies and meringues, lemon curd can elevate even the simplest desserts into something truly special.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 zesty lemon curd recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new way to use up some fresh lemons, these recipes have got you covered. So grab your mixing bowls and preheat your ovens – it’s time to get baking!
Read on to discover the perfect recipe for your next dessert adventure…
Classic Lemon Curd Tart
A tangy and sweet tart that’s perfect for springtime celebrations or a simple dessert any time of the year. This classic lemon curd tart is a timeless favorite that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, sugar, egg yolks, and lemon zest.
7. Pour curd mixture into baked tart crust and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies
Add a burst of citrusy sunshine to your cookie jar with these Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies. The tangy lemon curd filling perfectly balances the sweetness of the buttery cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation in each cookie.
7. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of lemon curd into each indentation.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Curd Cheesecake
Brighten up your dessert table with this tangy and sweet Lemon Curd Cheesecake, featuring a velvety lemon curd swirled throughout a creamy cheesecake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Dollop lemon curd on top of the cheesecake and use a knife to create a swirly design.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Curd Pavlova
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing twist on the classic pavlova recipe. A delicate meringue shell is filled with a tangy and sweet lemon curd, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour and salt over egg mixture and gently fold until no streaks remain.
4. Spoon meringue onto prepared baking sheet in a round shape.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until crisp and dry.
6. While pavlova is cooling, prepare lemon curd by whisking together softened butter, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and thick (about 10-12 minutes).
7. Assemble pavlova by spreading lemon curd on top of cooled meringue. Top with whipped heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Lemon Curd Mousse
Brighten up any occasion with this light and airy Lemon Curd Mousse, featuring the tangy flavor of fresh lemons and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) heavy cream
• 2 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold the egg mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Stir in lemon juice and melted butter.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (whipping time included)
Lemon Curd Cupcakes
Elevate your baking game with these moist and tangy lemon curd cupcakes, perfect for any occasion. The combination of a tender vanilla cake and a rich, citrusy lemon curd filling is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Lemon curd filling (recipe below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Lemon Curd Filling:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and whisk until just combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before filling with lemon curd.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Curd and Blueberry Parfait
Brighten up your morning with a refreshing and tangy Lemon Curd and Blueberry Parfait! This delightful dessert combines the sweetness of blueberries with the zesty zip of lemon curd, all nestled between layers of creamy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 pint fresh blueberries
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg yolks until fully incorporated.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. In a separate bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
7. Layer cooled lemon curd, whipped cream, and blueberries in a glass or parfait dish. Repeat for desired layers.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Curd Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a bright and tangy twist on classic French toast. This sweet and citrusy treat is perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup lemon curd
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
– Fresh fruit, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Spread about 1/4 cup of lemon curd onto one half of each toasted bread slice.
6. Fold the other half over to enclose the filling.
7. Serve warm, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy with fresh fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for all four slices.
Lemon Curd Macarons
Elevate your baking game with these delicate, citrusy macarons filled with a tangy lemon curd. Perfect for springtime celebrations or any occasion that calls for a burst of sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Lemon curd filling (recipe below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar, cream of tartar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until combined.
4. Fold the sifted dry ingredients into the egg mixture until well combined.
5. Pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet. Tap gently to remove air bubbles.
6. Allow macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before baking for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
Lemon Curd Filling:
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Lemon Curd Swirl Ice Cream
Brighten up your summer with this tangy and sweet ice cream recipe, featuring a swirl of homemade lemon curd throughout. This creamy treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and stir in the lemon curd.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Cooking Time: None required (uses ice cream maker)
Lemon Curd Crepe Cake
A refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of crepes with the tanginess of lemon curd, topped with a lightly sweetened whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Lemon Curd (recipe below)
– Whipped Cream (heavy cream and sugar to taste)
Lemon Curd:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add melted butter and mix until smooth.
3. Cook crepes in a small non-stick pan over medium heat, about 2 minutes per side.
4. Spread lemon curd on top of each crepe, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Roll up crepes and place seam-side down in a serving dish.
6. Top with whipped cream and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (including lemon curd preparation)
Lemon Curd Donuts
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet Lemon Curd Donuts! Infused with the zesty flavor of lemon curd, these donuts are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, melted butter, egg, and lemon curd; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe dough into donut shapes and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Curd Eclairs
Elevate your pastry game with these tangy and sweet lemon curd eclairs. By combining the brightness of lemon with the richness of buttery pastry, you’ll create a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup (120g) lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in long, thin strips.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow the eclairs to cool completely before filling with lemon curd.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Curd Layer Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is elevated by a tangy lemon curd filling, creating a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• Lemon curd filling (recipe below)
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, butter, lemon juice, and milk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; whisk until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans; bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with lemon curd filling.
Lemon Curd Filling:
• 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large egg yolks
Combine sugar and lemon juice in a saucepan; cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat; whisk in butter and egg yolks.
Assembly:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate; spread with lemon curd filling. Repeat with remaining layers, finishing with a layer of cake. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including baking time)
Lemon Curd Shortbread Bars
These buttery shortbread bars are elevated by a tangy and sweet lemon curd filling, perfect for a bright and citrusy dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow shortbread to cool completely before spreading lemon curd over the top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-27 minutes
Lemon Curd Pancakes
Elevate your pancake game with these tangy and sweet Lemon Curd Pancakes, perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch. The combination of fluffy pancakes, zesty lemon curd, and toasted sugar creates a delightful flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Toasted sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your griddle or non-stick pan to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop 1/4 cup batter onto the griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a dollop of lemon curd and toasted sugar (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes per batch.
Lemon Curd Meringue Pie
Brighten up any occasion with this tangy and sweet Lemon Curd Meringue Pie, featuring a velvety lemon curd filling, topped with a fluffy meringue topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– 3 large egg whites
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
5. Pour the filling into a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish and bake for 15 minutes.
6. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Spread the meringue over the filling and return to oven for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Curd Trifle
Lemon Curd Trifle: A Layered Delight
This classic dessert combines the tangy sweetness of lemon curd with the lightness of whipped cream and the crunch of cookies, creating a show-stopping trifle that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lemon curd
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Fresh raspberries or blueberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together crushed vanilla wafers and granola.
3. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of lemon curd in a 9×13 inch dish. Top with a layer of whipped cream, followed by a layer of crumb mixture.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Dust the trifle with confectioners’ sugar and garnish with fresh raspberries or blueberries if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on whipping time)
Lemon Curd Danish Pastries
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with these flaky, buttery pastries filled with a tangy and sweet lemon curd.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares, approximately 3 inches per side.
3. Place a small spoonful of lemon curd in the center of each square. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle, pressing edges together to seal.
4. Brush tops with a little water and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Allow pastries to cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Curd Chia Pudding
This recipe combines the creamy richness of chia pudding with the tangy sweetness of homemade lemon curd, perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, honey, and salt. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the lemon curd by whisking together lemon juice, melted coconut oil, and grated lemon zest in a separate bowl.
3. Once the chia pudding has set, give it a good stir and fold in the lemon curd until well combined.
4. Spoon into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chia pudding requires refrigeration time)
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 zesty lemon curd recipes that are sure to brighten up any dessert lover’s day. From classic tart and cheesecake to creative twists like stuffed French toast and meringue pie, these mouthwatering treats showcase the tangy, citrusy goodness of homemade lemon curd. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and sour or rich and creamy, there’s something for everyone in this collection of innovative and delectable desserts.