This creamy vanilla ice cream swirled with tangy lemon curd is the perfect treat to brighten any occasion. The combination of sweet, smooth vanilla and the tartness of lemon curd creates an irresistible flavor balance that will become a year-round favorite.
Lemon Curd Ice Cream: The Perfect Fusion
When I first experimented with this ice cream, I tried using freshly churned lemon ice cream. While it was tasty, it ended up being too strongly lemon-flavored and didn’t highlight the curd as I had envisioned. Next, I tried incorporating it into cheesecake ice cream, which was also delicious but didn’t let the lemon curd shine as the main flavor.
Eventually, I turned to a classic vanilla ice cream base—a simple combination of heavy cream, milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla—that lets the subtle brightness of the lemon curd take center stage.
For an extra indulgence, drizzle some warm lemon curd over each scoop of this creamy ice cream. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Making Lemon Curd in the Microwave
I used to be skeptical about microwave lemon curd, but now I swear by it! I love lemon curd but hated standing over the stove to make it. The microwave method is not only faster but surprisingly effective. The hardest part is juicing the lemons—everything else is a breeze!
Ingredients:
- Heavy cream
- Milk
- Sugar
- Kosher salt
- Vanilla extract
- Lemon curd (either homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
Whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s directions. -
Make the Lemon Curd:
While the ice cream is churning, prepare the lemon curd (either microwave it or use your favorite recipe). If you’re using store-bought curd, simply stir it until smooth and heat it slightly in the microwave if needed. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature before adding it to the ice cream. -
Assemble the Ice Cream:
Once the ice cream has finished churning, scoop half of it into a freezer-safe container. Drizzle half of the lemon curd over the ice cream. Repeat with the remaining ice cream and curd, creating layers. -
Freeze and Serve:
Freeze the layered ice cream until firm. When serving, warm up the remaining lemon curd and drizzle it over each scoop for an extra burst of flavor.
No Ice Cream Maker? No Problem!
You can still enjoy this treat without an ice cream machine! Check out the full directions for making ice cream by hand and indulge in this delicious creation regardless of your equipment.
Pro Tips for Ice Cream Lovers
- If you need more ice cream inspiration, check out over 100 other ice cream recipes on my site, including a simple, easy-to-make vanilla ice cream.
- I highly recommend using these affordable, reusable containers for storing your homemade ice cream. They make great gifts too!
- For a perfectly smooth scoop, this budget-friendly ice cream scoop works wonders—even with firm ice cream!
Lemon Curd Inspired Desserts
If you love lemon curd, try out these other lemon-inspired desserts:
- Baked Peaches with Lemon Curd
- Lemon Cheesecake with Curd Drizzle
- Berry Cheesecake Mousse Cups
- Mixed Berry Ice Cream with Lemon Curd
- Lemon Bars with Chocolate Ganache
And if you still have some lemon curd left, drizzle it over this original lemon ice cream or any of your favorite treats!
Conclusion
This creamy, tart, and utterly refreshing lemon curd ice cream is perfect for anyone who loves a sweet and tangy dessert. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a treat any time of year, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
This creamy vanilla ice cream swirled with tart lemon curd is the perfect dessert for any time of year. It brings the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it a must-try for lemon lovers!
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1½ cups milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
-
Make the Ice Cream Base:
Whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract in a bowl until well combined. -
Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. -
Prepare the Lemon Curd:
While the ice cream is churning, prepare your lemon curd (either homemade or store-bought). Ensure the curd is smooth and at room temperature before adding it to the ice cream. -
Layer the Ice Cream and Curd:
Once the ice cream has finished churning, scoop half of it into a freezer-safe container. Drizzle with half of the lemon curd. Repeat the layers with the remaining ice cream and curd. -
Freeze and Serve:
Freeze until the ice cream is firm. Serve with a drizzle of warm lemon curd on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes:
- Homemade lemon curd is recommended for the best flavor, but store-bought lemon curd can be used as well. If using store-bought, heat it in the microwave in short intervals until it’s smooth and pourable.
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 400kcal
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 145mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Fiber: 0.04g
- Sugar: 41g
- Vitamin A: 973IU
- Vitamin C: 0.4mg
- Calcium: 115mg
- Iron: 0.1mg
Enjoy this tangy, creamy lemon curd ice cream as a refreshing treat anytime you need a sweet escape!
