Wheat Free Cornstarch Lemon Curd
Bright, tangy, and silky-smooth, this lemon curd hits every note you want — sharp citrus up front, a buttery richness that lingers, and a glossy texture that looks almost too pretty to spread. The secret to getting that perfect set without flour or any grain-based thickener is cornstarch, which creates a clean, translucent curd that's every bit as luscious as the classic version. Constant whisking over medium heat is the move here — it keeps lumps from forming and lets you watch the mixture transform from cloudy to glossy right before your eyes. Finishing with cold butter pieces whisked in one at a time gives the curd its velvety body, while fresh zest stirred in at the end keeps the flavor vibrant and aromatic. Straining the finished curd through a fine-mesh sieve is a small extra step that makes a big difference, leaving you with something impossibly smooth. Spoon it over yogurt, swirl it into whipped cream, dollop it onto scones, or eat it straight from the jar — no judgment here.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 3–4 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ tsp fine salt
- ½ cup water
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
- 1
Whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a small saucepan until evenly combined. Add the water and lemon juice and whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved with no lumps visible.
- 2
Set the saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns from cloudy to translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Once it begins to bubble, continue whisking for 1 full minute — the curd should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and hold a clear line when a finger is drawn through.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!