Description
This vibrant Lime Curd recipe offers a smooth, tangy spread perfect for desserts, breakfast treats, or as a zesty addition to your favorite dishes. Made with fresh lime juice, zest, egg yolks, sugar, and butter, it’s cooked gently over a double boiler to achieve a creamy, luscious texture.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 large egg yolks (80g or 2 large whole eggs)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar (133g)
- 1/3 cup fresh lime juice or bottled key lime juice (80g)
- 1 Tbsp lime zest - zest of about 2 key limes or 1 large lime (6g)
- 1/4 tsp fine salt (2g)
- 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (70g)
Instructions
- Prepare the double boiler: Fill a saucepan with 2 inches of water and heat over medium-low heat until it begins to simmer, ensuring gentle heat for cooking the curd.
- Mix ingredients: In a medium-sized, heat-proof metal bowl, combine 4 large egg yolks, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/3 cup lime juice, 1 Tbsp lime zest, and 1/4 tsp fine salt. Whisk the mixture until smooth and fully combined.
- Cook the curd: Place the bowl on top of the simmering water, creating a double boiler setup. Ensure the bowl bottom does not touch the water. Continuously whisk the mixture over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to a custard-like consistency.
- Incorporate butter: Remove the bowl from the heat and turn off the stove. Stir in 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, until the lime curd becomes thick and smooth.
- Optional coloring: If desired, add a small drop of green gel food coloring to achieve a green hue instead of the natural yellow from the egg yolks. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Store the curd: Transfer the lime curd into an airtight container such as a jam jar or mason jar. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing with a lid.
- Refrigerate: Place the sealed jar in the refrigerator. The lime curd can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for maximum flavor; key limes can be substituted for a more authentic tart profile.
- Continuous whisking during cooking prevents eggs from scrambling and ensures a smooth custard.
- To test thickness, the curd should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- For a greener color, use gel food coloring as liquid can affect texture.
- Keep the lime curd refrigerated and use clean utensils to avoid contamination.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Sauce/Spread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
