Easy Vegan Lemon Curd

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This Easy Vegan Lemon Curd is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, making it an ideal addition to your favorite desserts or simply spread on toast for a refreshing treat. With fresh lemon juice and zest, this recipe captures the brightness of citrus while remaining completely plant-based.

Whether you’re making it to fill a cake, drizzle over pancakes, or enjoy on its own, this vegan lemon curd offers a versatile option that will impress even non-vegans. The rich coconut cream adds a velvety texture, and the turmeric gives it that familiar sunny hue without any artificial coloring. It’s simple to prepare and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Full Recipe:

1 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed

2 tablespoons lemon zest
1 cup sugar
5 tablespoons cornstarch

1 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk)
1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color, optional)
1/2 cup coconut cream

Pinch of salt

Directions:

In a medium saucepan, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.

Gradually whisk in the plant-based milk and coconut cream. Add the pinch of salt and optional turmeric for color.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, whisking constantly, until it thickens and reaches a custard-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
Once thickened, remove from heat and pour the lemon curd into a glass container or jar.

Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: 120 kcal | Servings: 8 servings

About the Recipe:

Lemon curd is a classic citrus spread traditionally made with butter and eggs, but this vegan version is a perfect alternative for those who follow a plant-based diet or have dairy and egg allergies. This recipe relies on simple ingredients like fresh lemon juice, plant-based milk, and coconut cream to achieve the same creamy and tangy result, without the use of animal products.

What makes this recipe special is its vibrant lemon flavor, with just the right amount of sweetness and tartness. The combination of lemon zest and juice brings out the natural brightness of the lemons, while the coconut cream adds a silky texture that mimics traditional curd. Turmeric is optional but gives the lemon curd that iconic yellow color without altering the flavor.

Uses for Vegan Lemon Curd:

This lemon curd is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:

Spread: Enjoy it on toast, scones, or muffins for a bright and zesty morning treat.
Filling: Use it as a filling for vegan cakes, tarts, or cupcakes for a refreshing, citrusy kick.
Topping: Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, or vegan yogurt for a delicious breakfast or dessert option.

Layering: Add it to parfaits or layer it with fruit for a light, healthy dessert.

Why You’ll Love It:

Easy to make: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a quick and effortless addition to your meal prep.
No fancy equipment needed: You only need a saucepan and a whisk to make this lemon curd.

Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free: It’s suitable for various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegan diets.
Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness to your taste, or even swap the lemon for other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a different twist.

Tips for Success:

Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make all the difference in flavor. Bottled lemon juice won’t have the same bright, zesty taste.

Whisk constantly: As the lemon curd thickens, whisking prevents it from clumping or burning. Keep an eye on the heat and remove it from the stove as soon as it reaches the desired thickness.
Storing: Store the vegan lemon curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, and just thaw in the fridge when you need it.

Nutrition Information:

This recipe is lower in calories compared to traditional lemon curd, thanks to the absence of butter and eggs. It also provides a healthier, cholesterol-free option. Coconut cream adds richness, but in moderation, it keeps the recipe light. The curd is perfect for anyone looking for a flavorful and health-conscious dessert or spread.

History and Background of Lemon Curd:

Lemon curd originated in England as early as the 19th century and was traditionally used as a spread for bread or scones. It’s often enjoyed with afternoon tea or used as a filling in cakes, tarts, and pastries. While the traditional recipe calls for butter, eggs, and sugar, this vegan version is a modern twist, allowing people with dietary restrictions to enjoy its rich, tangy flavor. Lemon curd has evolved to become a global favorite, with many variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Health Benefits of Vegan Lemon Curd:

This Vegan Lemon Curd not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides some health benefits:

Rich in Vitamin C: Lemons are packed with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system, helps in collagen production, and promotes healthy skin.

Plant-Based Fats: The use of coconut cream provides healthy fats that are easier for the body to digest compared to dairy-based creams. Coconut cream contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known to support metabolism and energy levels.
Low in Cholesterol: Unlike traditional lemon curd, which contains eggs and butter (both high in cholesterol), this vegan version is completely free of cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy alternative.
Natural Sweeteners: If you prefer, you can substitute regular sugar with a healthier alternative such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or even coconut sugar. These options give a more natural sweetness without spiking blood sugar levels as much as refined sugars.

Customization Ideas:

This lemon curd recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can modify it in various ways to suit your preferences:

Swap the Citrus: For a unique twist, try using lime juice, orange juice, or grapefruit juice in place of lemons. Each will offer a slightly different flavor, and you can even mix and match to create a citrus blend.
Add a Flavor Boost: For a more complex flavor profile, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to your lemon curd. This will introduce a subtle sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon.

Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of ginger or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the citrus flavors. This works especially well when using the curd as a topping for desserts.
Lemon-Lavender Curd: For a more floral and aromatic version, infuse the lemon curd with dried culinary lavender while it cooks. Just be sure to strain it out before storing.

Pairing Suggestions:

This Vegan Lemon Curd pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some creative ways to use it:

As a Cake Filling: Use the curd as a layer in sponge cakes or between vegan lemon cupcakes for a refreshing surprise.
Top Pancakes and Waffles: A dollop of lemon curd on top of a stack of pancakes or waffles adds a burst of citrusy goodness that brightens up breakfast.
Vegan Cheesecake: Swirl it into a homemade vegan cheesecake or use it as a glaze on top for a sweet, tangy finish.

Fruit Tarts: Spoon the curd into a pre-baked vegan tart shell, and top it with fresh berries for a light, elegant dessert.
Dairy-Free Yogurt: Stir the lemon curd into dairy-free yogurt for a quick, tasty snack or breakfast option.

Recipe Variations:

Sugar-Free Option: You can substitute the sugar with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or erythritol for a sugar-free version of this recipe, ideal for those monitoring their sugar intake.

Gluten-Free Lemon Curd Tart: If you’re looking for a gluten-free dessert, combine this lemon curd with a gluten-free crust for a delicious lemon tart that’s suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Coconut-Free: If you’re avoiding coconut products, you can replace the coconut cream with another plant-based alternative like cashew cream or soy cream. Both provide a similar creamy consistency.

Serving Tips:

Presentation is key when serving vegan lemon curd, especially when it’s used in desserts or as a spread. Garnish with a sprig of mint, fresh berries, or even a thin slice of lemon to add a pop of color and freshness.

Storage: Always store your lemon curd in an airtight glass jar to preserve its freshness. It keeps for about a week in the refrigerator, but if you need to store it longer, consider freezing it. To use frozen lemon curd, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Fun Fact:

Did you know that lemons were once so rare in Europe that they were considered a luxury? During the Renaissance, they were used not only for culinary purposes but also as medicine and as a status symbol due to their high value. Today, however, lemons are a kitchen staple worldwide, and this easy vegan lemon curd allows everyone to enjoy their zesty flavor in a modern, cruelty-free way.

Lemon Curd Through the Seasons:

Lemon curd is a wonderful recipe for all seasons:

In summer, it’s perfect for topping fresh fruit or ice cream.
In spring, it works wonderfully as a filling for light desserts like pavlova or lemon meringue tarts.
In fall or winter, you can use it to add brightness to heavier, richer desserts like cakes or warm puddings.

Conclusion:

This Easy Vegan Lemon Curd is a simple, versatile, and delicious alternative to traditional lemon curd, making it perfect for those following plant-based or dairy-free diets. With its tangy, sweet flavor and smooth, creamy texture, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a refreshing citrus twist to their favorite dishes. Whether used as a spread, filling, or topping, this lemon curd is sure to impress with its vibrant flavor and ease of preparation. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, customizable, and packed with the bright, zesty goodness of fresh lemons!