Lemon Curd with Kiwi: A Bright and Refreshing Dessert

Lemon curd is a beloved treat known for its rich, velvety texture and its tangy, citrus-forward flavor. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of desserts, from tarts and cakes to simple spoonfuls enjoyed on their own. But what happens when you add a tropical twist to this already delicious dessert? Enter lemon curd with kiwi—a vibrant, refreshing combination that takes the classic lemon curd to new heights.

The addition of kiwi not only adds a burst of bright green color but also introduces a unique balance of sweet and tangy flavors that perfectly complement the citrusy richness of lemon curd. This delightful dessert is incredibly easy to make and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you're using it as a filling for pastries, pairing it with shortbread, or simply enjoying it on its own, lemon curd with kiwi is sure to be a hit.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this irresistible lemon curd with kiwi, share tips for perfecting the recipe, and offer serving suggestions to inspire your next dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this tangy, creamy lemon curd with kiwi, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 large lemons (for juice and zest)
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 whole egg
• 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cubed)
• 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
• 2 ripe kiwis (peeled and sliced)
• A pinch of salt (optional)

These ingredients come together to create the luxurious lemon curd base, while the fresh kiwi adds a pop of color and a sweet, tart contrast to the richness of the curd. If you prefer, you can use a bit of honey instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness, but granulated sugar is traditional in this recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Lemons

Start by zesting the lemons. Use a microplane or zester to carefully remove the yellow zest from the lemons, being sure not to include any of the bitter white pith. After zesting, juice the lemons to get about 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice. Set both the zest and juice aside for later use.

2. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating the smooth texture of the curd.

3. Heat the Lemon Juice and Zest

In a medium saucepan, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer, but don’t let it come to a full boil. Stir occasionally to ensure the zest and juice don’t scorch.

4. Temper the Eggs

Once the lemon mixture is simmering, it’s time to temper the eggs. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot lemon mixture into the egg and sugar mixture while whisking constantly. This gradual introduction of heat helps prevent the eggs from curdling. After a few tablespoons of lemon liquid have been added, you can pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining lemon juice and zest.

5. Cook the Lemon Curd

Return the saucepan to the stove and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula. Continue cooking for about 8-10 minutes, or until the curd thickens and coats the back of the spoon. Be sure not to let it boil, as this can cause the eggs to scramble.

6. Add the Butter

Once the curd has thickened, remove it from the heat and add the cubed butter. Stir until the butter has completely melted into the curd, giving it a smooth, glossy texture. The butter adds richness and helps stabilize the curd.

7. Strain the Curd (Optional)

For an ultra-smooth lemon curd, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any bits of zest or egg. This step is optional but will result in a silky-smooth curd.

8. Cool the Lemon Curd

Let the lemon curd cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set. The curd will continue to thicken as it chills.

9. Prepare the Kiwi

While the lemon curd is chilling, peel and slice the kiwis. You can slice them into thin rounds or cut them into small chunks, depending on how you want to serve the curd. If you prefer, you can also puree the kiwi for a smoother texture.

10. Serve the Lemon Curd with Kiwi

Once the lemon curd has fully chilled and set, it’s ready to be served. Spoon the curd into individual serving bowls or glasses, then top with fresh kiwi slices. The contrast between the creamy, tangy curd and the sweet, juicy kiwi is absolutely delightful.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Filling: Use the lemon curd with kiwi as a filling for tarts, pastries, or cakes. It pairs perfectly with buttery shortbread or a crisp pastry shell.
• With Biscuits or Scones: Serve the lemon curd with kiwi alongside freshly baked biscuits or scones for a sophisticated afternoon tea treat.
• As a Parfait: Layer the lemon curd with kiwi slices and granola in a parfait glass for a refreshing breakfast or dessert.
• On Toast or Pancakes: Spread the lemon curd on warm toast or pancakes for a delightful breakfast treat.

Health Benefits of Lemon Curd with Kiwi

While lemon curd with kiwi is undoubtedly a sweet indulgence, it also has some health benefits due to the nutritious ingredients. Here’s how this dessert can contribute to a healthier lifestyle:

1. Vitamin C Boost: Both lemons and kiwis are excellent sources of vitamin C, which is essential for boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin.
2. Antioxidants: Kiwi is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals in the body, reducing inflammation and supporting overall health.
3. Digestive Health: Lemons contain citric acid, which can aid digestion and detoxification, while kiwi is a great source of fiber, which supports a healthy digestive system.
4. Low in Calories: If you opt for a lower-sugar version of this lemon curd, it can be a relatively low-calorie dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without too much guilt.

Tips for Perfecting Your Lemon Curd with Kiwi

• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste preferences and the sweetness of your fruit, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar used in the lemon curd. If you like it less sweet, reduce the sugar by half.
• Use Fresh Kiwi: Fresh kiwi provides the best texture and flavor. However, if kiwi isn’t in season, you can substitute it with other tropical fruits like mango or passion fruit.
• Serve Cold or Room Temperature: The lemon curd can be served chilled for a refreshing treat or at room temperature for a softer, more velvety texture.

Conclusion

Lemon curd with kiwi is a delightful, tangy dessert that combines the brightness of lemon with the tropical sweetness of kiwi. This creamy curd is simple to make and offers a variety of ways to enjoy it—whether spooned into a tart, served as a parfait, or simply enjoyed on its own. The fresh kiwi not only adds a vibrant color and flavor but also provides health benefits that make this dessert both indulgent and nourishing.

With just a few ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a stunning dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summertime treat or a way to elevate your next gathering, lemon curd with kiwi is an easy yet sophisticated choice. Enjoy!