Sweet Spread, Dessert Component | Vegetarian

Lemon Curd

N/A (Sweet Spread) Allergens: Eggs, Milk
Lemon Curd

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rutaceae (lemon)
  • Primary Cuisine British, European
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Lemons, Eggs, Sugar, Butter

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A thick, sweet, and tangy fruit spread made from lemon juice, zest, eggs, sugar, and butter, cooked until creamy.

Sensory Profile

TasteTangy, Sweet, Buttery, Citrusy
TextureSmooth, Creamy, Thick, Velvety
AromaBright, Zesty, Lemon
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 30g (2 tbsp)
Calories350
Total Fat18
Saturated Fat10
Trans Fat0.5
Cholesterol180
Protein4
Total Carbohydrate45
Dietary Fiber0
Total Sugars40
Calcium20
Iron0.5
Potassium80

Chef’s Secret

For the smoothest lemon curd, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after cooking to remove any bits of cooked egg or zest.

Substitutions

Best Match

Lime Curd

1:1

Similar texture and tanginess, offering a slightly different citrus flavor profile.

Passion Fruit Curd

1:1

Provides a tropical, tangy, and sweet profile with a similar creamy consistency.

Pastry Cream (Crème Pâtissière) + Lemon Zest

Variable

Good for filling tarts and pastries, less intense lemon flavor, can be customized.

Apple Butter (tart variety)

1:1

Provides a thick, sweet-tart fruit spread, though flavor profile is different, good for toast.

Buying Guide

Look for natural ingredients, avoid artificial colors/flavors. Refrigerate after opening.

Flavor Pairings

Scones Toast Tarts Meringue Cheesecake Yogurt Fresh Berries.