Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd is a zesty, smooth, and silky lemon spread that combines a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The Hairy Bikers, a beloved British duo of chefs, are known for creating delicious, comforting recipes that are both accessible and mouthwatering. Their version of lemon curd offers a rich and vibrant flavor profile, thanks to fresh lemon juice, zest, butter, and sugar, all gently cooked together to create a velvety consistency.

Lemon curd is a versatile treat, perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping over scones, using as a filling for cakes, or even mixing into yogurt for a refreshing dessert. The Hairy Bikers’ version stands out for its simplicity and the incredible depth of citrus flavor. It’s a recipe that speaks to the joy of home cooking, providing a taste of homemade goodness with every bite.

Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients, many of which you might already have in your kitchen. The recipe is straightforward, and the result is a luxurious and tangy curd that’s perfect for any occasion.

Here’s What You’ll Need

• 4 large lemons – You’ll need both the zest and the juice from these lemons. Fresh lemons give the curd its bright, citrusy flavor.
• 200g caster sugar – This helps to balance the tartness of the lemon juice and creates the perfect sweetness.
• 100g unsalted butter – Butter adds richness and a smooth texture to the curd, making it luxuriously velvety.
• 3 large eggs – Eggs help thicken the curd and give it that lovely, creamy consistency.
• Pinch of salt – Just a small amount of salt enhances the overall flavor and adds a slight savory depth to counter the sweetness.

Equipment Needed

Making lemon curd requires just a few essential pieces of kitchen equipment to ensure that the curd comes out perfectly smooth and luscious.

Here’s What You’ll Need

• Zester or Grater – To zest the lemons and extract their fragrant, flavorful peel.
• Juicer – To extract the fresh juice from the lemons.
• Mixing bowl – For whisking the eggs and combining the ingredients.
• Saucepan – A heavy-bottomed saucepan is ideal for gently cooking the curd mixture over low heat.
• Whisk – A good whisk is essential to constantly stir the mixture and prevent it from curdling as it cooks.
• Fine mesh sieve (optional) – If you prefer an ultra-smooth curd, straining the mixture through a fine mesh sieve will remove any bits of zest or egg that didn’t fully incorporate.
• Storage jars or airtight containers – To store the finished lemon curd and keep it fresh.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to dive into the process of making this tangy and sweet lemon curd.

Step 1: Prepare The Lemons

Start by zesting the lemons to extract the aromatic peel. You’ll need about two teaspoons of zest.

Then, cut the lemons in half and juice them, ensuring you remove any seeds. You should aim for about 150ml of lemon juice.

Step 2: Mix The Eggs And Sugar

In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and caster sugar together until well combined. You want to ensure the sugar is fully dissolved in the eggs before moving to the next step.

Step 3: Melt The Butter And Combine

Place the butter into a saucepan over low heat, letting it melt gently. Once melted, add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the pan, stirring well.

Step 4: Cook The Curd Mixture

Slowly pour the egg and sugar mixture into the saucepan with the lemon and butter. Stir constantly with a whisk to ensure everything is well combined.

Continue to cook the curd over low heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens to the consistency of double cream. Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as this can cause the eggs to scramble.

Step 5: Strain The Curd (Optional)

If you want a silky-smooth curd, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any pieces of zest or egg that may have curdled.

Step 6: Cool And Store

Let the curd cool to room temperature before transferring it into jars or airtight containers. Once cooled, store the curd in the fridge for up to two weeks. You can also use it immediately if you can’t resist its delicious flavor!

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

Here are some expert tips from the Hairy Bikers themselves, to ensure your lemon curd turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use fresh lemons: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh lemons rather than bottled lemon juice. The zest and juice from freshly picked lemons will provide a depth of flavor that bottled versions just can’t match.
2. Stir constantly: It’s important to keep stirring the mixture while it’s cooking. This prevents the eggs from curdling and ensures a smooth texture.
3. Don’t rush the cooking process: Cook the curd on low heat. If the heat is too high, the eggs can curdle, ruining the texture of the curd. Patience is key when it comes to this recipe.
4. Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer your lemon curd a little sweeter or more tart, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. Remember that the curd will be slightly sweeter once it cools, so taste-testing along the way is always a good idea.
5. Make it your own: Feel free to add a little twist to your lemon curd. For example, a splash of vanilla extract or a little ginger could provide an interesting variation to the traditional recipe.

Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd is a perfect treat that combines tangy lemon flavors with smooth, creamy sweetness. The simplicity of the ingredients and the process makes it a joy to prepare, while the end result is a luxurious, versatile spread that can be used in so many different ways.

Whether you’re slathering it on toast, spooning it over pancakes, or using it to fill a cake, this lemon curd is sure to impress your taste buds and anyone who gets a taste. The Hairy Bikers have once again created a timeless recipe that brings the bright flavor of lemons into your kitchen in the most delightful way. Enjoy!.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd recipe is a classic, tangy delight that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. However, you can take this simple recipe and add a few twists to elevate the flavor profile or personalize it to suit your tastes.

1. Herb-Infused Lemon Curd: For an herbal twist, consider adding a touch of rosemary or thyme to the lemon curd. Simply infuse the herbs into the butter before combining it with the eggs and lemon juice. This gives the curd a fragrant, slightly earthy undertone that pairs wonderfully with scones or shortbread.
2. Ginger Lemon Curd: Adding finely grated fresh ginger can give the lemon curd a spicy, zesty kick. Ginger and lemon are a classic combination in many desserts, and the heat from the ginger will balance out the sharp acidity of the lemon, making it a perfect topping for cakes, tarts, or even pancakes.
3. Vanilla Bean Lemon Curd: For a richer, smoother texture, incorporate the seeds from a vanilla bean into your lemon curd. The natural sweetness of vanilla works beautifully with the tartness of the lemon, creating a well-rounded curd that’s silky and aromatic. This makes an excellent filling for pastries or as a topping for yogurt.
4. Lemon and Raspberry Curd: If you’re looking for a burst of color and flavor, consider folding in fresh raspberry puree once the lemon curd has been made. This creates a stunning pink-hued curd with a sweet, fruity note. It’s perfect for spreading on toast or as a topping for cheesecakes.
5. Lemon Curd with a Splash of Liqueur: Adding a splash of Limoncello or Grand Marnier brings a delightful adult twist to the curd. These citrus-based liqueurs enhance the lemon flavor while adding depth. This variation is especially lovely when served with desserts like tarts, fruit salads, or panna cotta.

These small tweaks will give your lemon curd a unique flair while staying true to the essence of the classic recipe. Experiment with different variations based on what you’re serving, and let the curd shine as a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Once you’ve made your delicious lemon curd, it’s important to store it properly to preserve its freshness and avoid any spoilage. Here’s how to ensure your curd stays at its best for as long as possible:

1. Use Airtight Containers: The key to keeping lemon curd fresh is to store it in an airtight container. Glass jars or containers with tight-fitting lids work best because they don’t impart any odors or chemicals like plastic can. Ensure there’s no air inside the jar when closing it.
2. Refrigeration: Lemon curd must be stored in the refrigerator due to its egg content. Ideally, you should refrigerate it as soon as it cools down to room temperature, which prevents the growth of bacteria and maintains the curd’s texture. Store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.
3. Freezing (If Needed): If you’ve made a large batch and don’t think you’ll finish it within two weeks, you can freeze lemon curd. Transfer it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a small space at the top to allow for expansion. Lemon curd can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, defrost it in the fridge overnight and give it a good stir to restore its creamy consistency.
4. Check for Signs of Spoilage: Although lemon curd is highly perishable, it can last for a while if stored correctly. Before using any leftovers, always check for changes in smell, color, or texture. If the curd has become too watery or has developed any mold, discard it immediately.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy your homemade lemon curd over multiple uses without compromising on flavor or safety.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd?

Lemon curd is incredibly versatile and can complement many different dishes, both sweet and savory. Here are some fantastic pairings that will enhance your enjoyment of Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd:

1. Scones: A traditional British pairing, scones and lemon curd are a match made in heaven. The rich, buttery scones act as the perfect vehicle for the tangy, smooth curd. Serve them during afternoon tea for an authentic experience.
2. Pancakes and Waffles: Drizzle lemon curd over freshly made pancakes or waffles for a light, citrusy contrast to the sweetness of syrup or fruit. It adds brightness and zest, making your breakfast or brunch feel extra special.
3. Yogurt: Stir some lemon curd into Greek yogurt for a quick and delightful dessert or snack. The creamy yogurt balances the tartness of the lemon curd, and the combination is light yet satisfying. You could also add some granola and fresh berries for extra texture.
4. Shortbread Cookies: A rich, buttery shortbread cookie is another perfect partner for lemon curd. The crumbly texture of the shortbread contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the curd, making for a delicious bite-sized treat.
5. Tarts and Pastries: Lemon curd is an excellent filling for tarts, éclairs, and pastries. You can pipe it into pre-baked tart shells or top a fruit-filled pastry for an added layer of citrus flavor. The tartness pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pastry dough.
6. Cheesecake: For a delightful contrast in flavor, top a classic cheesecake with a layer of lemon curd. The citrusy curd complements the rich, creamy cheese, creating a balanced and sophisticated dessert.
7. Fruit Salads: Spoon some lemon curd over fresh fruit salad for an easy and refreshing dessert. It pairs wonderfully with berries, citrus fruits, or even stone fruits like peaches and nectarines.
8. Toast and Muffins: For a simple, quick treat, spread lemon curd on toast or muffins for breakfast or a mid-day snack. Its tangy sweetness will make your toast feel like a gourmet experience.

Lemon curd is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite pairing. Whether it’s a light snack, a decadent dessert, or a part of a fancy brunch spread, this delicious treat will elevate any meal.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd is a fantastic, versatile recipe that offers endless possibilities. By adding a few twists, you can personalize the curd to suit your preferences, whether that’s with herbs, spices, or even a splash of liqueur.

Proper storage ensures that your curd stays fresh, allowing you to enjoy it over time. And when it comes to serving, lemon curd can be paired with a variety of dishes, from scones and pancakes to cheesecakes and fruit salads.

With its rich, tangy flavor and silky smooth texture, lemon curd is a timeless treat that never fails to impress. Whether you’re using it in a quick snack or as part of a special dessert, this sweet-and-tart delight is sure to shine in your culinary creations.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For The Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd Recipe?

The Hairy Bikers’ lemon curd recipe requires the following ingredients: fresh lemons (zest and juice), caster sugar, eggs, butter, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients come together to create a smooth, tangy lemon curd with a rich, buttery flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Make Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd From Start To Finish?

The preparation time for the Hairy Bikers’ lemon curd is relatively quick, taking about 10-15 minutes. The cooking time is around 20-25 minutes on low heat, ensuring the curd thickens properly without curdling. The total time from start to finish is approximately 35-40 minutes.

Can I Store Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd, And If So, How Long Does It Last?

Yes, you can store Hairy Bikers’ lemon curd in a sterilized jar. Once sealed, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. If you want to extend its shelf life, it can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but it’s best to enjoy it fresh for the most vibrant flavor.