Why You’ll Love Homemade Microwave Lemon Curd Recipe
• Ready in about 11 minutes, including cooking time, with simple steps that mostly take place in the microwave
• Uses just a handful of everyday ingredients — lemons, sugar, eggs, and butter — with bright fresh lemon flavor
• Silky texture that spreads easily and can be stored in the fridge for weeks
• Versatile: great on baked goods or as a filling for tarts and cookies
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 egg yolk, room temperature
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest from 3 lemons
Directions
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Melt the butter in the microwave and set aside to cool slightly.
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In a medium microwave‑safe bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk until smooth.
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Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest.
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Whisk in the melted butter until fully incorporated.
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Microwave the mixture at 50% power for 1 minute, then stir.
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Continue microwaving at 100% power in 1‑minute intervals, stirring after each, until the curd has thickened and coats the back of a spoon. (It will continue to thicken as it cools.)
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Strain the curd through a fine‑mesh sieve to remove the zest for an extra smooth texture.
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Pour into sterilized jars and let cool; refrigerate.
Servings and timing
• Servings: Makes about 24 servings (approximately 2 cups)
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: Around 6 minutes in the microwave
• Total time: About 11 minutes
Variations
• Lime Curd: Swap lemons for limes for a slightly different tangy flavor
• Orange Curd: Use orange juice and zest for a sweeter, milder version
• Mixed Citrus: Combine lemon, lime, and orange juice for a complex, vibrant curd
• Herb-Infused: Add a sprig of thyme or basil while cooking, then strain it out for a subtle herbal note
• Honey Lemon Curd: Replace some or all of the sugar with honey for a richer, more floral taste
Storage/Reheating
• Refrigerator: Store in airtight jars or containers in the fridge for up to three weeks
• Freezing: You can freeze lemon curd in freezer‑safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using
• Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until smooth — don’t boil to avoid curdling
FAQs
How long does homemade lemon curd last in the fridge?
Homemade lemon curd will last up to three weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze lemon curd?
Yes — lemon curd freezes well for about 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Why is my lemon curd runny?
If it’s too runny, it may need a bit more cooking time until it thickly coats a spoon, or let it cool fully to finish setting.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice gives the best bright flavor, but bottled can be substituted in a pinch.
What can I do with leftover lemon curd?
Spread it on toast, swirl into yogurt, fill cakes or cupcakes, or use it as a dip for fruit.
Is microwave lemon curd safe?
Yes — as long as the eggs reach safe temperatures during cooking and the curd thickens properly.
Can I make this without a microwave?
Yes — you can make lemon curd on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until thickened.
How do I know the curd is done?
It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and hold a line when you run your finger through it.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes — you can slightly reduce sugar for a tarter curd, but balance with lemons for flavor.
Can I add other citrus?
Absolutely — try orange or lime for a different citrus curd variation.
Conclusion
This microwave lemon curd is a fast, simple way to enjoy fresh lemon flavor with minimal fuss and maximum versatility. Whether you’re topping baked goods, filling desserts, or simply spreading it on your favorite snack, it’s a bright and delicious addition to your kitchen. Make a batch — you’ll want to keep it on hand for all kinds of treats.
Homemade Microwave Lemon Curd
This homemade microwave lemon curd is a quick and easy recipe that delivers smooth, creamy, and tangy lemon curd in just minutes. Perfect for spreading on toast, filling cakes, or enjoying by the spoonful.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until smooth and combined.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and melted butter.
- Microwave the mixture on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring well after each minute.
- Repeat for about 4-6 minutes or until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Once thickened, pour the lemon curd through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove zest and any cooked egg bits.
- Let cool slightly, then transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Notes
- Lemon curd will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Microwave times may vary depending on the power of your microwave.
- Stirring frequently helps prevent the eggs from curdling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
