Easy Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Curd is a splendid concoction, blending the zesty punch of fresh lemons with the creamy richness of butter and eggs to create a spread that’s both luxurious and comforting. Perfect for brightening up your breakfast toast or adding a citrusy twist to your desserts, this homemade delight surpasses any store-bought version. Serving as a versatile ingredient in your culinary arsenal, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to add a burst of flavor to their dishes.

This recipe yields about 2 cups of lemon curd and takes roughly 30 minutes to prepare, plus chilling time.

What is Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd?

Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd is a luscious, buttery lemon spread, thickened with eggs and enriched with a tangy lemon flavor. It embodies a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a favorite for spreading on scones, filling cakes, or simply enjoying by the spoonful.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Lemon Curd
• Mary Berry Lemon Curd Cake
• Delia Smith Lemon Curd

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful & Versatile: Elevates everything from breakfast pastries to desserts.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday kitchen staples.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in a flash, with minimal fuss.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd

You need following ingredients to make this recipe:

• 4 large, fresh lemons (for zest and juice)
• 200g (1 cup) of granulated sugar
• 100g (about 7 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 3 large eggs, plus 1 egg yolk
• A pinch of salt (optional, for balancing flavors)

Equipment

• 1 medium-sized heatproof bowl
• 1 saucepan (for creating a double boiler)
• 1 fine mesh strainer
• 1 whisk or spatula
• 1 grater or zester
• 1 juicer
• Jars with lids for storing

Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Zest and Juice the Lemons: Begin by thoroughly washing the lemons. Zest them finely, avoiding the bitter white pith. After zesting, halve and juice the lemons, straining to remove any seeds.

Step 2: Creating the Curd

• Combine Lemon Zest and Sugar: In a medium-sized, heatproof bowl, mix the lemon zest with the granulated sugar. This process helps release the oils from the zest, infusing the sugar with a robust lemon flavor.
• Add Other Ingredients: To the lemon-sugar mixture, add the butter pieces, lemon juice, eggs, and egg yolk. If you’re using a pinch of salt, add it now to enhance the flavors.
• Cooking the Mixture: Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Cook, constantly whisking, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, typically taking about 10-15 minutes.
• Strain for Smoothness: Once thickened, remove the bowl from heat and strain the lemon curd through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl or jar. This step ensures a silky-smooth texture by removing any cooked egg bits or larger zest pieces.
• Cool and Store: Allow the curd to cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will continue to thicken. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate. The lemon curd will further set and develop its flavors while chilling.

What Do I Serve With Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd?

The vibrant zest and creamy texture of Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd make it an exceptional complement to a wide range of dishes.

Here’s how you can incorporate this citrus delight into your meals and desserts:

• On Toast: Begin your day with a burst of citrus by spreading lemon curd over a warm slice of toast.
• Dessert Companion: Elevate simple desserts by using them as a topping for cheesecake or pavlova.
• Scones and Pastries: Transform afternoon tea by serving lemon curd with fresh scones or croissants.
• Layer in Parfaits: Add a tangy layer to yogurt or custard parfaits for a refreshing snack.
• Cake Filling: Make your cakes unforgettable by using lemon curd as a filling between layers.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd

Achieving the perfect balance of tangy and sweet in your lemon curd is an art. Here are some pro tips to help you master this delectable spread:

• Fresh Lemons Are Key: The freshest lemons yield the brightest flavor. Always zest and juice your own.
• Stir Constantly: Prevent curdling by stirring continuously while the mixture thickens and overheats.
• Strain for Silkiness: To ensure a smooth texture, always strain your curd through a fine-mesh sieve.
• Cooling Process: Allow the curd to cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent skin from forming.
• Jar Preparation: Sterilize your jars before filling them to extend the shelf life of your lemon curd.

Variations of Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd

Lemon curd is just the beginning. With a few simple adjustments, you can explore a whole new world of flavors:

• Lime Curd: Swap out lemons for limes to create a curd with a tropical twist.
• Orange Curd: For a sweeter, milder curd, use oranges instead of lemons.
• Mixed Citrus Curd: Combine lemon, lime, and orange for a complex, multi-citrus flavor.
• Raspberry Lemon Curd: Stir in some raspberry puree for a fruity, pink-hued variation.
• Vanilla Bean Lemon Curd: Add the seeds from a vanilla bean for a subtle warmth and fragrance.

How do I Store Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd Leftovers?

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd.

Here are effective ways to keep your lemon curd delicious for later use:

• Refrigerate in Airtight Containers: Transfer the lemon curd to airtight containers or jars to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
• Press Plastic Wrap on Surface: To avoid skin forming on top, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the curd before sealing the container.
• Label with Date: Mark your containers with the date of storage to keep track of freshness. Lemon curd typically lasts up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
• Consider Small Batches: Store in smaller containers if you won’t use a large quantity at once, making it easier to enjoy portion by portion.

How do I Reheat Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd Leftovers?

While Hairy Bikers Lemon Curd is usually enjoyed cold or at room temperature, there might be times when you prefer it warm, especially if you’re using it as a sauce or filling.

Here’s how to gently reheat it:

• Use Low Heat: Warm the lemon curd over low heat in a saucepan, stirring constantly to prevent it from curdling or burning.
• Microwave with Care: If using a microwave, heat in short, 10-second bursts, stirring in between each burst to ensure even warming.
• Avoid Boiling: Never bring the lemon curd to a boil when reheating, as this can affect its texture and flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Once warmed to your liking, use the lemon curd immediately for the best taste and consistency.

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