Instant Pot Lemon Curd Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Lemon Curd is a game-changer! Unlike traditional stovetop methods, this hands-off recipe delivers fresh, tangy, and silky lemon curd without constant stirring. The Instant Pot’s consistent heat ensures a smooth texture every time, and the process is simple, mess-free, and foolproof. Whether you use it for filling tarts, spreading on toast, or dolloping on desserts, this lemon curd is irresistibly bright and refreshing.

Instant Pot Lemon Curd Recipe

Fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly made in the Instant Pot, this lemon curd is perfect for every occasion. It’s tangy, creamy, and the ideal balance of sweetness and zest.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Additional Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• ¼ cup (57g) salted butter, melted
• ½ cup (106g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1–2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 3–4 lemons)

Instructions

Step 1: Blend the Ingredients

1. In a blender, combine melted butter, sugar, egg, egg yolk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Prepare the Instant Pot

1. Pour 1½ cups of water into the Instant Pot. Place the trivet inside.
2. Transfer the lemon curd mixture into a heatproof bowl or liquid measuring cup. Cover tightly with foil to prevent condensation.
3. Place the covered bowl on the trivet.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

1. Secure the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing, and select Pressure Cook (High Pressure) for 10 minutes.
2. Once the cook time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes (this helps the curd set properly).
3. Perform a quick release for any remaining pressure, then carefully remove the lid.

Step 4: Whisk Until Smooth

1. Remove the bowl from the Instant Pot and discard the foil. The curd will look set, almost like custard or gelatin.
2. Whisk the curd vigorously until creamy and smooth. It may look slightly curdled at first, but keep whisking—it will come together beautifully.

Step 5: Cool and Store

1. Transfer the curd to an airtight container and refrigerate until fully chilled. It will thicken further as it cools.
2. If the curd appears split or separated after refrigeration, simply whisk it again to recombine.

Tips and Tricks

1. Zest First: Always zest the lemons before juicing them. It’s much easier and ensures you don’t waste any of the flavorful zest.
2. Double the Batch: This recipe can easily be doubled. Add 2–3 extra minutes to the cooking time for a larger batch. Ensure the heatproof bowl fits comfortably in your Instant Pot.
3. Thicker Curd: For thicker lemon curd, reduce the lemon juice to 1/3 cup or add an extra egg yolk.
4. No Blender? If you don’t have a blender, whisk the ingredients together in a mixing bowl until smooth.

FAQs

1. Why does my lemon curd look curdled?
This can happen after cooking or chilling. Simply whisk the curd vigorously, and it will smooth out beautifully.

2. Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, unsalted butter works just as well. Add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors if using unsalted butter.

3. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
For the best flavor, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended. Bottled lemon juice can taste less vibrant and slightly metallic.

4. How long does lemon curd last?
Homemade lemon curd can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

5. Can I freeze lemon curd?
Yes! Lemon curd freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store lemon curd in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Reheating: Warm slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat if needed, and whisk to smoothen before use.

This Instant Pot Lemon Curd is perfect for spreading on scones, pancakes, or toast. It’s also a delightful topping for cakes, tarts, or yogurt. The zesty lemon flavor brightens up any dessert and adds a touch of sunshine to your day