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Simple Lemon Curd Frosting

Zesty Simple Lemon Curd Frosting to Brighten Your Bakes

This Simple Lemon Curd Frosting is a tangy, creamy delight perfect for enhancing your baked treats.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Lemon Curd
  • 4 pieces Egg Yolks Essential for making homemade lemon curd, providing structure and richness.
  • 6 tbsp Granulated Sugar Adjust the sweetness for balance in the curd.
  • 2 tsp Lemon Zest Adds a vibrant citrus aroma; lime or orange zest works beautifully too!
  • 0.25 cup Lemon Juice Fresh juice ensures the best flavor with its tanginess.
  • 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter Helps emulsify the curd; cold butter is key to creaminess.
For the Frosting
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Main ingredient, giving the frosting its rich, creamy texture.
  • 3.5 cups Powdered Sugar Sweetness and structure; sift it for a perfectly smooth frosting.
  • 3 tbsp Lemon Curd Enhances the flavor and creaminess; store-bought is fine too!
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Additional zing of citrus flavor for that delightful burst.
  • 2 tsp Cream or Milk Adjusts the consistency for spreading or piping.
  • 0.25 tsp Kosher Salt Amplifies the frosting's flavor; omit if you're watching your salt.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 4 egg yolks, 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, and ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 20 minutes before using.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter. Beat the butter on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Gradually sift in 3 ½ cups of powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once incorporated, increase speed to medium and beat until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Carefully fold in 3 tablespoons of the cooled lemon curd and 1 tablespoon of additional lemon zest until well combined.
  5. If the frosting is too thick, add 2 teaspoons of cream or milk and blend on low speed until the desired consistency is reached.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 1gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgSugar: 28gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 10mg

Notes

Ensure egg yolks are beaten until pale yellow for proper thickening. Sift powdered sugar to avoid lumps. Let frosting sit at room temperature if firm, and avoid freezing for best texture.

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