Yuzu Curd Recipe
Introduction
Yuzu curd is a bright, tangy spread that perfectly balances sweet and citrusy flavors. Made with fresh yuzu juice, eggs, and butter, it’s a delightful twist on classic lemon curd. This silky curd is perfect for toast, desserts, or as a filling.

Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup yuzu juice (bottled is great, such as YuzuCo)
- Pinch of salt
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Instructions
- Step 1: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, yuzu juice, and salt until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 2: Set the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler style). Whisk constantly for 10–12 minutes, or until the curd thickens and reaches about 170°F (77°C). It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Step 3: Remove from heat and whisk in the butter, a few pieces at a time, until the curd becomes silky and glossy.
- Step 4: Strain the curd through a fine mesh sieve for an extra smooth texture.
- Step 5: Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to set.
Tips & Variations
- Using a double boiler prevents the eggs from overcooking and curdling, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Swap yuzu juice for lemon or lime juice if yuzu isn’t available, though the flavor will be different.
- For a zestier curd, add a teaspoon of finely grated yuzu zest along with the butter.
Storage
Store the yuzu curd in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To use, bring it to room temperature or gently warm it before spreading or filling. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make yuzu curd without a double boiler?
You can cook the curd directly in a saucepan, but it requires careful attention and constant whisking to avoid curdling. The double boiler method is safer and gives better results.
What can I use yuzu curd for?
Yuzu curd is versatile—it’s delicious on toast, as a filling for pastries and cakes, swirled into yogurt or ice cream, or dolloped onto pancakes and waffles for a refreshing citrus kick.
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Yuzu Curd Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 22 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup (240 ml) of yuzu curd 1x
Description
This Yuzu Curd recipe delivers a tangy, silky citrus spread made using fresh yuzu juice, eggs, sugar, and butter. Perfect as a topping or filling for desserts, it’s prepared gently over a double boiler to achieve a smooth, luscious texture without curdling.
Ingredients
Yuzu Curd Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup yuzu juice (bottled, such as YuzuCo)
- Pinch of salt
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, yuzu juice, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Cook Using Double Boiler: Set the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, creating a double boiler. Whisk the mixture constantly for 10 to 12 minutes, or until it thickens and reaches about 170°F (77°C). The curd should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Avoid Direct Heat Cooking: While it’s possible to cook the curd directly in a saucepan, using a double boiler helps prevent overcooking or scrambling the eggs, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Incorporate Butter: Remove the bowl from heat and gradually whisk in the butter pieces, a few at a time, until the curd becomes silky and glossy.
- Strain the Curd: Pour the curd through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps and achieve an extra-smooth consistency.
- Chill to Set: Cover the surface of the curd with plastic wrap pressed directly onto it to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate and let it set for at least 1 hour before using.
Notes
- Using a double boiler is key to preventing the eggs from scrambling and ensures smooth curd.
- Pressing plastic wrap directly on the surface avoids a thick film forming as it chills.
- Bottled yuzu juice like YuzuCo offers convenience and consistent flavor when fresh yuzu is unavailable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
Keywords: Yuzu curd, citrus curd, yuzu juice recipe, Japanese dessert spread, homemade curd

