Vegan Lemon Curd

5 from 38 votes

This easy Vegan Lemon Curd is a zesty delight, perfect for adding a burst of citrusy goodness to many dishes, from morning toast to desserts.

Prep Time5

Cook Time5

Total Time10

Course: Condiments, Dessert, Sweets

Cuisine: British

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Servings: servings

Calories: 193kcal

Author: Kristen Wood

Ingredients

1 cup lemon juice fresh or bottled
1 cup milk of choice I like to use oat milk
½ cup granulated white sugar
⅓ cup tapioca starch or arrowroot starch
1 tablespoon lemon zest optional, but will give a much nicer lemon flavor
pinch ground turmeric optional, but will enhance the yellow color further
2 tablespoons vegan butter or any plant-based spread

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the lemon juice, milk, sugar, and starch, as well as the lemon zest and turmeric (if using).
Whisk everything until smoothly combined, and continue whisking until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
Once the curd has visibly thickened and is the texture of a creamy curd, turn off the heat, and then add the vegan butter, mixing until fully melted and well incorporated.
Serve the curd right away or keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Enjoy!

Video

Notes

Sugar: Any granulated sugar can be used, but white sugar will result in that classic yellow color, whereas coconut or brown sugar will result in a much darker curd.

Whisk Constantly: To prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture, keep whisking the mixture as it cooks.

Adjust the Thickness: If your curd is too thick, you can thin it out by whisking in a little more plant-based milk. If it's too runny, cook it for a few minutes longer.

Balance Sweet and Tart: Adjust the amount of sugar and lemon juice to strike the perfect balance between sweetness and tartness according to your taste.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a significant difference in flavor. Whenever possible, opt for fresh lemons.

Experiment with Citrus: You can try this recipe with other citrus fruits like lime, orange, or grapefruit for a different flavor profile.

Add Aromatic Herbs: Infuse the curd with herbs like thyme or basil for a unique twist.

Storage

In the Refrigerator: Store the lemon curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to one week. The cool temperature helps preserve its texture and tanginess.

Freezing: This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Nutrition