Lemon Curd

This classic lemon curd recipe has fans. Some say it delivers “perfect lemon curd every time.” Others call it “so easy and so good.” One reviewer summed it up best: “This is how lemon curd should be—lemony and tart, not overly sweet.” We’re not going to argue: This bright, glossy lemon curd has been a favorite of both staff and readers since its first printing in Gourmet more than 25 years ago.

Unlike versions that rely on egg yolks alone, this one uses whole eggs, giving it a lighter texture and letting the citrus flavor shine. It comes together in minutes, delivering silky homemade lemon curd with the sweet-tart balance reviewers consistently rave about. Serve it warm on toast or spoon it over blueberry scones or shortcakes; chill it to layer into cakes, fill cupcakes or tarts, or swirl into yogurt—or, as more than a few readers admit, enjoy it straight from the spoon.

Tips for the best lemon curd

Don’t rush it. Whisking the curd over gentle heat allows the mixture to thicken gradually. Higher heat invites the possibility of scrambling.

Should you strain the lemon curd? Straining isn’t strictly necessary, but passing the hot curd through a fine-mesh sieve removes zest and any tiny bits of cooked egg, yielding an extra-silky texture.

Why use whole eggs? Whole eggs reduce waste and create a curd with a lighter texture and brighter flavor—the extra fat in yolks alone can mute some of the lemon’s brightness.

How to know when the curd is done. Look for clear signs of thickening. The finished curd will coat the whisk or the back of a spoon, and bubbles will just begin to break the surface—don’t let it boil. For precision, the curd should reach about 170°F on an instant-read thermometer.

Store for later. Lemon curd keeps for about 1 week in an airtight container in the refrigerator and freezes well for 2–3 months (thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then whisk briefly to re-emulsify).