Learn how to make a refreshing and perfectly tart homemade Lemon Curd with this easy to follow recipe. With only 5 simple ingredients you can make your very own lemon curd right from scratch. This curd comes together so quickly and so easily you’ll never go back to store bought again!

A spoon covered in creamy yellow lemon curd hovers over an open mason jar filled with the curd. The jar sits on a beige plate with lemon wedges and a checkered cloth in the background.

How To Make Homemade Lemon Curd

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Zest your lemons first, then squeeze out the fresh lemon juice. In total I used about 4 lemons. I zest 2 of them then use the 3-4 to squeeze the juice out of! Fresh lemons are so superior to the already squeezed lemon juice you can find at the store.
Separate the egg yolks from the whites and set them aside. Save the egg whites for a swiss meringue buttercream or egg white omelets :) Whatever use you can get out of egg whites so nothing goes to waste :)

Step 2: Infuse the Sugar with Lemon Zest

In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and lemon zest.
Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar—this helps release the natural lemon oils, creating a stronger, more vibrant and oh so delicious flavor! You can also use a food processor for this step :)

Step 3: Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar

In a small saucepan, whisk the egg yolks and lemon-infused sugar for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes lighter in color and smooth.
Add the fresh lemon juice and whisk to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Lemon Curd

Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk. If you don’t mix constantly you risk the mixture at the bottom of the pan burning.
Gradually increase the heat to medium-low (never go higher, or the eggs might scramble).
Keep whisking until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble slightly.

A glass jar filled with creamy lemon mousse, topped with a lemon wedge and a spoon. In the background, three lemon wedges are placed on a checkered cloth. The scene is bathed in natural sunlight.

Step 5: Add the Butter

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in cold, cubed butter.
Whisk until the butter melts and blends into the curd, creating a silky smooth consistency.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Transfer the warm lemon curd into a glass jar or airtight container.
Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Let it cool in the fridge for at least 1 hour before using.

How to Store Homemade Lemon Curd

To keep your lemon curd fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Refrigerate: Store in a sealed glass jar or airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Prevent Skin Formation: Always press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the jar.
Freeze for Longer Storage: Lemon curd freezes super well! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge.

A jar filled with creamy orange mousse is topped with orange slices. A metal spoon is inside the jar. In the background, more orange slices rest on a checkered cloth. The jar sits on a round tray.

Recipe Tips for Perfect Lemon Curd

Use fresh lemons – Bottled lemon juice won’t give you the same bright, fresh flavor.
Low heat is key – Cooking too quickly can cause the eggs to scramble. Be patient – it’s worth the wait!
Keep whisking – This ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
Use cold butter – It helps emulsify the curd, making it extra silky but not necessary :)
Strain if needed – If you notice small egg bits, strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve before storing.

Biscuits dusted with powdered sugar and filled with lemon curd are arranged in front of a jar filled with lemon curd. A spoon is inside the jar, and there are lemon slices nearby. A plaid cloth is in the background.

Ways to Use Homemade Lemon Curd

Need ideas on how to enjoy your lemon curd? Here are a few delicious ways to use it:
Spread on toast, scones, or biscuits
Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal
Fill cakes, cupcakes, or tarts
Drizzle over pancakes or waffles
Use as a macaron filling
With its bright citrus flavor and velvety texture, homemade lemon curd is a game-changer adding to any dessert!