This Pioneer Woman Lemon Curd Recipe is smooth and tangy, which includes fresh lemon juice and real butter. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just 25 minutes.
Pioneer Woman Lemon Curd Recipe Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 3 lemons)
- 3 large eggs + 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt

How To Make Pioneer Woman Lemon Curd
- Melt the base: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sugar, butter, and lemon juice. Whisk continuously until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the eggs: Remove the pan from heat briefly. Quickly whisk in the beaten eggs, egg yolk, and salt until fully blended.
- Thicken the curd: Return the saucepan to low heat. Cook while stirring constantly with a rubber spatula until the curd thickens and coats the back of the spoon, about 10–12 minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Strain and chill: Immediately pour the curd through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface and chill until firm.

Recipe Tips
- Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
- How do I know it’s thick enough? It should coat the back of a spoon without sliding off quickly.
- Can I make it in the microwave? Yes, use short intervals and stir often, but stovetop provides better control.
- Why strain the curd? It ensures the smoothest texture by removing any lumps or zest.
- How long will it last? Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in an airtight jar.
What To Serve With Lemon Curd
Lemon curd adds a burst of citrus to many dishes. Try it with:
- Scones or English muffins
- Yogurt parfaits
- Cheesecake topping
- Pancakes or waffles
- Filling for lemon bars or cupcakes

How To Store Lemon Curd
Refrigerate: Store in a glass jar or sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Freeze: Lemon curd freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Lemon Curd Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 1124 kcal
- Total Fat: 72g
- Saturated Fat: 41g
- Cholesterol: 711mg
- Sodium: 693mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 105g
- Sugars: 102g
- Protein: 20g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just be sure to stir constantly and use low heat to avoid curdling.
Is it supposed to be very tart?
Yes, lemon curd is naturally tart, but the sugar balances it well.
Why is my curd too thin?
It may not have cooked long enough. Make sure it thickens before removing from heat.
Can I use it as a pie filling?
Absolutely. Chill it well before spreading into a pre-baked crust.
What’s the best way to zest lemons?
Use a microplane zester for fine, even zest without bitter white pith.
Try More Recipes:
Pioneer Woman Lemon Curd Recipe
Description
This silky lemon curd is made with eggs, butter, and fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy spread perfect for desserts and breakfast.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, butter, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Whisk over medium-low heat until melted.
- Remove from heat. Whisk in eggs and salt.
- Return to low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10–12 minutes.
- Strain through a sieve. Cover and chill until firm.
