Description

This Easy Orange Curd recipe delivers a vibrant, tangy-sweet spread made from fresh orange juice and zest, eggs, sugar, and butter. Thickened gently on the stovetop, this luscious curd is perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on desserts, or incorporating into baked goods. Ready in just 17 minutes with minimal ingredients, it’s a fresh and zesty treat that brightens any meal.

Ingredients

Orange Curd Ingredients

1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3–4 oranges)
2 teaspoons orange zest
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, granulated sugar, eggs, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Cook the Curd: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to prevent any eggs from scrambling. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, which should take about 10 to 12 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture boil to avoid curdling.
Incorporate Butter: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the unsalted butter pieces, adding them one at a time. Stir continuously until every piece is fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
Strain the Curd: For an ultra-smooth consistency, strain the orange curd through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits or zest.
Cool and Store: Allow the orange curd to cool slightly at room temperature, then transfer it into a jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least one hour to let it thicken fully before serving.

Notes

Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor and brightness.
Constant stirring during cooking is essential to prevent eggs from curdling.
Do not allow the curd to boil; keep heat medium-low for gentle thickening.
Straining is optional but recommended for a silky smooth texture.
The curd can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Feel free to adjust sugar according to your preferred sweetness.