Lemon Curd

This lemon curd is absolutely fantastic.  It has an intense lemon flavor and could be used on crepes, tarts, or on toast.  I used it as a filling in this cake and was happy to have a little left after to eat with a spoon.  This is one situation where homemade definitely blows store-bought out of the water.

LEMON CURD

• 12 large egg yolks
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• zest of 4 lemons
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into 1 tablespoon pieces, at room temperature

In a saucepan over medium heat, bring 2 to 3 inches of water to a simmer.

            

In a heatproof medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until thoroughly combined.

Whisk in the lemon juice and zest and set the bowl on the saucepan, making sure the bottom does not touch the simmering water.

Cook, whisking occasionally, until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and the temperature registers 180°F, 20 to 30 minutes.

           

Strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve set over a clean medium bowl.

Add the butter a few pieces at a time, stirring with a rubber spatula.

When all the butter has been incorporated, blend with an immersion blender (or hand mixer) until the curd is completely smooth, about 30 seconds.

           

Strain the curd once again, this time into a storage container.

Press plastic wrap onto the surface and refrigerate until chilled and set, 3 to 4 hours.

Do  Ahead: Stored in an airtight container, the lemon curd can be held for up to 1 week in the refrigerator or for 4 months in the freezer.

Source:  Caitlin Freeman