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Lime Curd Recipe


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4 from 58 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: about 1 cup (serves 1 as written; can be adjusted)

Description

This Lime Curd is a tangy, smooth spread made from fresh lime juice, zest, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Perfect for spreading on toast, filling pastries, or adding a burst of citrus flavor to desserts, this bright and creamy curd is cooked gently over simmering water to achieve the perfect silky texture.


Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed


Instructions

  1. Mix sugar and lime zest: Combine the lime zest and granulated sugar in a bowl. Massage them together with your fingers for 1-2 minutes to release the lime’s essential oils, enhancing the flavor of the curd.
  2. Combine lime juice and egg yolks: Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and egg yolks to the sugar and zest mixture. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
  3. Cook over simmering water: Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method). Cook the mixture, whisking occasionally, until it thickens considerably and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 10 minutes. This gentle heat prevents curdling and ensures a smooth consistency.
  4. Strain and cool: Remove the bowl from heat and strain the curd through a fine mesh sieve to remove any cooked egg bits. Let the curd cool for about 10 minutes to slightly thicken before adding butter.
  5. Add butter: Add the cubed unsalted butter to the warm curd and stir until completely melted and fully incorporated, giving the curd a rich and creamy texture.
  6. Add optional coloring: If desired, add a drop or two of green food coloring to enhance the lime color without affecting the flavor.
  7. Transfer and cover: Transfer the curd to a clean jar. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the curd to prevent a skin from forming while it cools completely.
  8. Refrigerate until use: Chill the curd in the refrigerator until ready to use. It will thicken more as it cools and should be used within one to two weeks.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best bright and authentic flavor.
  • Cooking over simmering water ensures gentle heat and prevents curdling of the eggs.
  • The curd can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, be sure to strain the curd thoroughly.
  • Great as a spread on toast, scones, or as a filling for cakes and pastries.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Sauce/Spread
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American