Lime Curd
When I think of summer, one of the first things that comes to mind is Lime Curd. The bright, zesty flavor of fresh limes can instantly transport me to sun-soaked days, where the tangy sweetness dances on my taste buds. I remember the first time I made Lime Curd—the air filled with the citrusy aroma was nothing short of intoxicating. I was in the kitchen, whisking away, and as the curd heated in the microwave, anticipation grew. It felt like a cherished secret, something special just waiting to be shared. The way the curd thickens and transforms into a velvety smooth treat is truly magical. Whether I’m spreading it over warm scones or using it as a filling for pastries, Lime Curd brings a delightful brightness to any dish. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brightens up my kitchen and my day!
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
10 mins
5 mins
Easy
120 kcal
1 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
6 g
Citrus Squeezer
Why This Lime Curd Shines
Versatile Culinary Delight
One of the things I adore about Lime Curd is its versatility. It can be used in various ways beyond just a simple topping. Spread it on toast, dollop it on yogurt, or swirl it into ice cream for a refreshing treat. You can even use it as a filling for cakes or tarts, transforming any ordinary dessert into something extraordinary. The bright flavor complements so many dishes, making it a must-have in your kitchen.
Easy to Make
Don’t let the idea of making Lime Curd intimidate you. The process is incredibly easy and requires minimal ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. I love that it’s made in the microwave, eliminating the hassle of double boilers or constant stirring over the stove. It’s a quick and efficient way to enjoy this delectable treat!
Fresh and Flavorful
Using fresh ingredients is key to making the best Lime Curd. The taste of freshly squeezed lime juice and zest is unmatched. It’s what gives the curd its bright, zesty flavor that you simply can’t replicate with store-bought versions. Every bite bursts with freshness, making it a delightful addition to any dish.
Perfect for Summer Gatherings
Summer is all about gatherings, and Lime Curd is the perfect dish to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or a barbecue, serving this tangy treat will undoubtedly wow your guests. It pairs beautifully with seasonal fruits, making it a refreshing addition to any dessert table.
Great for Gifting
Homemade gifts are always cherished, and Lime Curd makes a fantastic gift. I love packaging it in pretty jars, tying a ribbon around the top, and sharing it with friends. It’s a personal touch that shows you care, and who wouldn’t appreciate a jar of sunshine?
Long Shelf Life
Another reason to love Lime Curd is its shelf life. Once you’ve made it, it can be stored in the refrigerator for about two weeks. This makes it perfect for preparing in advance for events or simply to have on hand for a quick snack or dessert. Knowing that I can whip up something delicious whenever the craving strikes is a real treat!
What to Gather for Lime Curd

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making a delicious Lime Curd. Each ingredient plays a significant role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The key players here are the fresh limes, which provide the signature flavor, and the unsalted butter, which adds richness and creaminess. Together, these simple ingredients come together to create a zesty treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This is the base sweetness for the curd, balancing the tartness of the limes.
- 3 eggs (yolks and whites): They help thicken the curd and give it a silky texture.
- 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 12 limes): The star ingredient that provides the bright, tangy flavor!
- 1 tablespoon lime zest (from about 4 to 6 limes): Adds an extra punch of lime flavor and enhances the aroma.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted): Contributes creaminess and richness, making the curd smooth and luscious.
How to Assemble Lime Curd

Making Lime Curd is a delightful process that’s both interactive and rewarding. You’ll love seeing how simple ingredients transform into a luscious curd. Just follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a bright and tangy treat ready in no time!
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until the mixture is smooth and combined. The sugar should dissolve a bit, creating a lovely base for your curd.
- Next, whisk in the freshly squeezed lime juice and the lime zest. This is where the magic happens—the bright citrus aroma will fill your kitchen and get your taste buds tingling with excitement.
- Now, add the melted butter into the mixture. Stir it in gently until everything is fully incorporated. You should see a nice, smooth consistency that looks glossy and inviting.
- Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on full power for one-minute intervals. After each minute, give the mixture a good stir. Keep an eye on the curd as it cooks; this process usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your microwave’s strength.
- You’ll know the Lime Curd is ready when it thickens enough to coat the back of a metal spoon. This is a crucial step—don’t rush it! Allow it to reach that perfect consistency.
- Once thickened, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it’ll be hot!). To ensure a silky texture, push the curd through a fine mesh sieve into a sterile jar or container. This step will remove any lumps or bits of cooked egg, ensuring your curd is smooth.
- Let the curd cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will thicken even more, so be patient! You can speed up the cooling process by placing it in the fridge, but I recommend letting it sit out for a bit to enhance the flavors.
- Once cooled, cover the jar with a lid and store it in the refrigerator. The Lime Curd will keep for about two weeks, but trust me, it won’t last that long!
- Enjoy your Lime Curd as a spread, filling, or delightful addition to any dessert. Every spoonful is a burst of sunshine!
Things Worth Knowing
- Ensure freshness: Always use fresh limes for the best flavor. The zest and juice should be bright and fragrant.
- Storage: Store your Lime Curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about two weeks.
- Avoid overcooking: Cooking time may vary based on microwave strength. Keep stirring and checking the consistency to avoid overcooking.
- Use a sieve: Straining the curd helps achieve that smooth, velvety texture that makes it so enjoyable.
How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to get creative with Lime Curd, there are plenty of ways to switch it up! Here are some fun ideas to try:
- Make it Citrus: Experiment with other citrus fruits like lemon or orange to create a unique curd flavor.
- Add Herbs: Try infusing your Lime Curd with fresh herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for an unexpected kick!
- Pairing: Serve with fresh fruits or alongside scones for a delightful afternoon tea experience.
- Use in Desserts: Incorporate Lime Curd into cakes, cupcakes, or cheesecakes for added flavor and moisture.
- Cocktail Rim: Use the Lime Curd as a rim for cocktails for an exciting flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Lime Curd opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to indulge your creativity and taste buds:
- Spread on Toast: Use Lime Curd as a delicious spread on your morning toast or bagels—it’s a delightful way to start your day!
- On Scones: Pair your Lime Curd with freshly baked scones for a classic afternoon tea experience.
- Dessert Topping: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a refreshing dessert option.
- Cake Filling: Use Lime Curd as a filling between cake layers to add a zesty surprise to your dessert!
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a platter of fresh seasonal fruits—it’s a match made in heaven.
- For Special Occasions: Lime Curd is perfect for summer gatherings, parties, or brunches, bringing a bright touch to your table.
- Gift Idea: Consider putting it in a decorative jar as a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.
FAQ
Conclusion
The vibrant and tangy flavor of Lime Curd makes it a standout recipe that you’ll want to make time and again. Its versatility allows you to use it in so many ways, transforming simple dishes into something special. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t be disappointed. It’s a refreshing treat that is bound to brighten your day!

Lime Curd
Equipment
- Citrus Squeezer
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 eggs eggs
- 1 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- ½ cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until smooth and thoroughly combined. Whisk in lime juice, lime zest, and melted butter.
- Cook in the microwave on full power for one-minute intervals, stirring after each minute. This process will take about 3 to 5 minutes depending on the strength of your microwave.
- You will know the Lime Curd is done cooking when it coats the back of a metal spoon.
- Remove from the microwave, push through a fine mesh sieve and pour into a sterile jar or container.
- Once the curd has cooled to room temperature, cover it with a lid and store it in the refrigerator for about two weeks.
- The curd will thicken as it cools.
Notes
- Storage: Keep your Lime Curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: While freezing is not recommended, you can store it in the fridge for freshness.
- Pairing: It goes beautifully with fresh fruits and desserts.
- Gifting: Package in a jar for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Variations: Feel free to try other citrus fruits!


