This microwave lemon curd recipe is the best way to make a homemade lemon curd in the shortest amount of time. Made with all of the same simple ingredients as a normal lemon curd recipe, this easy microwave recipe gets it done in a fraction of the time and effort.
Now that it’s starting to heat up again, lemon desserts are back in full swing! But at the same time turning on the stove can be so daunting because it will make your house insanely hot!
So that’s why I had to share with you this delicious lemon curd recipe that doesn’t require you to turn on the stove. Everything is done in the microwave and it’s so easy!
It’s time to go to the store and grab yourself some fresh lemons and get to baking some refreshing lemon recipes to enjoy during the summer heat.
Since you are here looking for lemon dessert recipes, check out this Easy Lemon Blondies Recipe or this Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf Cake.
Ingredients for this microwave lemon curd recipe
Here are the ingredients you will need to make this easy lemon curd recipe. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements.
- Sugar: sweetens the curd and balances ou the sour and tartness of the lemon juice.
- Lemon Zest: brings a deep lemon flavor without the extra acidity and moisture. You will need to zest about 2 lemons for this recipe.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: is the base of this recipe’s flavor. To get the right amount of juice, you will need about 2-3 lemons.
- Large Eggs: combines with the lemon juice to create the structure of the curd and allows it to hold its shape once it’s cooked and cooled.
- Butter: You will want to use unsalted for this recipe. And you will want it to be cold so don’t pull it out of the fridge until you’re ready.
How to make this easy microwave lemon curd recipe
Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step instructions!
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the sugar and lemon zest. Rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers to release the oils.
- Whisk in the lemon juice and whole eggs until well combined. Make sure that you whisk the mixture until you don’t see any more egg whites. I like using an immersion blender for this as well to make it easier.
- Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals at full power, stirring well after each interval, for about 2 minutes total, or until the mixture has reached 160F and has thickened. Add in the cold unsalted butter and mix vigorously or use the immersion blender again.
- Strain the curd through a fine sieve to remove any cooked egg bits.
- Transfer the curd to a jar or container and let it cool to room temperature. Then, cover and refrigerate until chilled and set, about 1-2 hours.
Why do you need to make this recipe!
- This easy recipe only requires a few simple ingredients that you can easily find at any grocery store.
- This is the quickest sweet treat for any fan of lemons.
- It’s very versatile and can be used a number of different ways.
- You will find it a whole lot more enjoyable to make homemade lemon curd rather than getting the store bought version.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
How to store leftover lemon curd?
Once you’ve microwaved your lemon curd, it should already be in the base of an airtight container such as a mason jar or glass food storage container. To store, simply close the airtight lid and put it in the fridge. It should last for at least 3 or 4 days.
Can I Freeze it?
Of course. If you do so, I suggest laying a sheet of plastic wrap snug and flush on top of the curd in the container and up the inside walls to keep out any air. Then seal it with the lid. This will ensure that your curd does not get freezer burn while being stored. It should last for up to a month or so like this.
Can I try other flavors of this microwave lemon curd recipe?
Definitely! You can easily swap out the lemon for any other citrus fruit and get the same result.
Just make sure you use the same measurements with the zest and juice. Have fun with it and try to make a lime curd, orange curd, or grapefruit curd.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Of course. Fresh lemon juice will always have a way better flavor but there’s no problem in using bottled juice if you can’t find fresh lemons.
It definitely helps when you’re running short on time which is what this recipe is specifically good for. The only thing that you need to keep in mind is that the flavor won’t be as good as the one made with fresh lemons!
How can I use this microwave lemon curd recipe?
- Combine it with fresh berries and use it as a topping for a bowl of ice cream or lemon cheesecake.
- Use it as layers in cake filling when making a birthday cake or wedding cake.
- Make a shortbread crust and make a classy and elegant lemon tart.
- Use it as a topping for your lemon bar cookies!
The Best Microwave Lemon Curd Recipe
The Best Microwave Lemon Curd Recipe
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice about 2-3 lemons
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter unsalted, cold, cubed
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine sugar and lemon zest. Rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers to release the oils.⅔ cup sugar, Zest of 2 lemons
- Whisk in the lemon juice and eggs until well combined. Make sure that you whisk the mixture until you don't see any more egg whites. I like using an immersion blender for this as well to make it easier.½ cup fresh lemon juice, 4 large eggs
- Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, for about 4 minutes total, or until the mixture has reached 160F and has thickened completely. Add in the cold butter and mix vigorously or use the immersion blender again.¼ cup unsalted butter
- Strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any cooked egg bits.
- Transfer the curd to a jar or container, cover the top with plastic wrap making sure the plastic wrap touches the curd, and let it cool to room temperature. Then, cover and refrigerate until chilled and set, about 1-2 hours.
Leave a Comment