Best Microwave Lemon Curd + VIDEO Recipe: Perfect For Cakes & More (2024)

This microwave lemon curd is such a popular and easy treat to whip up that you'll have no excuse not to find a million ways to use it. Eat it as-is, use it as a cake filling, spread it over cheesecake, or use it to make a pie. As an added bonus, it is ready in only ten minutes.

I also have easy recipes for making pineapple curd and apple curd!

Lemon curd is, by far, my favorite cake filling, but I also love a dollop of lemon curd on pancakes, crepes, or waffles for breakfast. It's also perfect for lemon bars and thumbprint cookies.

The usual method for making lemon curd involves a lot of stirring over a pot of boiling water on the stove. I switched to this microwave method and have never gone back!

🥘 Ingredients

• Lemon - I always try to make this using fresh lemon juice because I feel like it really makes a difference. You'll need the zest, too, so it works out really well.
• Butter - Some melted butter. I've used both salted and unsalted with good results.
• Sugar - Enough white granulated sugar can sweeten the curd nicely.
• Eggs - Eggs are the binding ingredient that helps the curd to thicken.

*Be sure to see the free printable recipe card below for ingredients, exact amounts & instructions with tips!*

🔪 How To Make Microwave Lemon Curd

Making lemon curd in the microwave has never been easier. You'll need a small bowl, a whisk, and your measuring utensils.

This recipe will make about two cups of lemon curd.

Mix the Ingredients

Step 1: Whisk. In a small to medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup (200 grams) of sugar and 3 large eggs until smooth.

Step 2: Add. Add 1 cup (237 milliliters) of lemon juice, ½ cup (113.5 grams) of melted butter, and lemon zest (if desired). Stir to combine.

Heat & Stir

Step 3: Heat. Microwave the lemon curd mix in 30-second to 1-minute increments (I like to microwave it in shorter increments, but it will take a bit longer to get your desired consistency). Stir between each microwave heating.

Step 4: Repeat. Repeat the heating and stirring steps until your lemon curd sticks to the back of your spoon and begins to hold the stirred shape in your bowl (it will set up more when cooled and refrigerated).

Step 5: Chill. Stir and then transfer to a storage container, then refrigerate until your lemon curd is firm.

💭 Tips & Notes

• Check the temperature. All microwaves are different, so it could take between 4-10 minutes, depending on your microwave's power. When done, the lemon curd should have an internal temperature of 185°F (85°C).
• Smooth it out. If your lemon curd has any small lumps, it may have been overcooked. You can press it through a fine mesh sieve and it will be perfectly smooth again.
• Use it as a gift. Pour your lemon curd into cute jars and add a fun label for the perfect gift.
• Let it cool. Keep in mind that your lemon curd will continue to thicken as it cools.

🥡 Storing

Lemon curd will be stored, refrigerated, for up to three weeks and can be frozen for longer storage.

Freezing

Place into a storage container, making sure to leave some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to a year, but mine has never lasted that long!

When ready, move it to the fridge to thaw.

📖 Recipe Card

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