A luscious and tangy dessert spread that fits perfectly into any vegan diet, Easy Vegan Lemon Curd is a refreshing treat that brings the bright, zesty flavors of fresh lemons to your table. This creamy condiment is not only rich in citrus goodness, but it also serves as an ideal filling for pastries, a topping for pancakes, or even a delightful addition to a jar of yogurt. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can master this delectable vegan alternative.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 80
- Protein: 0.5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Fat: 3.5 grams
- Fiber: 0.3 grams
- Sugar: 15 grams
- Sodium: 5 mg
Why Make This Easy Vegan Lemon Curd
Easy Vegan Lemon Curd offers a delightful balance between sour and sweet, making it an excellent choice for those looking to brighten up their vegan desserts. This recipe uses simple plant-based ingredients, making it easy to whip up without any fancy equipment. The vibrant yellow hue, enhanced by turmeric, not only gives it an inviting look but also ensures that your lemon curd is as appealing as it is flavorful. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—use it in tarts, on toast, or drizzled over desserts like vegan cheesecake.
How to Make Easy Vegan Lemon Curd
Making Easy Vegan Lemon Curd is a straightforward process that can be broken down into just a few simple steps. Each step is easy to follow and requires minimal fuss, making it an excellent recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup plant-based milk
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, cornstarch, and turmeric over medium heat until the mixture thickens. This initial combination sets the flavor base for your lemon curd.
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Step 2: Mixing
Slowly add in the coconut oil and salt, stirring until well combined. The coconut oil not only adds richness but also helps achieve that smooth texture you desire.
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Step 3: Cooking
Keep stirring until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). You want to achieve a pudding-like consistency that will hold up well without being overly firm.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in plant-based milk for creaminess. Let the lemon curd cool before transferring to a jar. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while cooling down to a spreadable consistency. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
How to Serve Easy Vegan Lemon Curd
Serve your Easy Vegan Lemon Curd as a delectable topping for scones, pancakes, or waffles. Spread it on toast with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant breakfast. It also makes a fantastic filling for vegan tarts or cakes. You can even use it as a refreshing filling in vegan desserts like cupcakes or cheesecakes.
How to Store Easy Vegan Lemon Curd
To keep your Easy Vegan Lemon Curd fresh, store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. This way, it will stay good for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just portion it in smaller containers, and it should be good for up to three months.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Vegan Lemon Curd
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be a convenient substitute, but it lacks the vibrant taste of fresh juice.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet curd, feel free to reduce the sugar to your taste.
- Thickness Check: If your curd isn’t thickening as you like, just keep it on the heat a little longer—it should thicken as it approaches a boil.
- Stir Constantly: Keep stirring throughout the cooking process to avoid lumps and ensure even cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair it with coconut yogurt for a refreshing dessert or drizzle it over chia pudding for added tang.
Delicious Variations
- Herbal Hint: Add a teaspoon of chopped fresh mint or basil for a refreshing herbal twist.
- Berry Bliss: Mix in some pureed berries for a berry-flavored lemon curd.
- Spiced Delight: Incorporate a pinch of ginger or cinnamon for an added depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this lemon curd without sugar? Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave, but the texture might vary slightly.
- Is there a substitute for coconut oil? Yes, you can use vegan butter or any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil if you prefer.
- What can I use lemon curd for? You can use it in various ways, including filling for cakes, topping for pancakes, or spread on toast.
- How do I know when my lemon curd is done cooking? It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and hold a line when you run your finger through it.
- Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure you adjust your cooking time accordingly, checking for thickness as it cooks.
Conclusion
Easy Vegan Lemon Curd is an incredibly simple yet irresistible recipe that brightens up any dish. With its tangy flavor and creamy texture, it’s a perfect addition to your vegan repertoire. Whether you enjoy it spread on bakery treats, swirled into desserts, or straight from the jar, this lemon curd is bound to please. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the vibrant flavor of homemade lemon curd. You’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Easy Vegan Lemon Curd
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A luscious and tangy dessert spread that brings the bright, zesty flavors of fresh lemons to your table, perfect for vegan diets.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup plant-based milk
Instructions
- In a saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, cornstarch, and turmeric over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
- Slowly add in the coconut oil and salt, stirring until well combined.
- Keep stirring until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes) to achieve a pudding-like consistency.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in plant-based milk for creaminess. Let it cool before transferring to a jar.
Notes
Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing in smaller containers for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
