Homemade Key Lime Curd is a tangy, creamy treat made with fresh key limes, butter, eggs, and sugar. This easy-to-make curd is perfect for spreading on toast, filling tarts, or drizzling over desserts. Its vibrant flavor and smooth texture make it a delightful addition to any dish.

Homemade Key Lime Curd with fresh key limes, creamy texture, and tangy flavor.
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This homemade Key Lime Curd recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, made with fresh key limes for a vibrant, citrus-packed flavor.

Its creamy texture and zesty taste make it a versatile treat – perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over desserts, or filling pies.

Easy to make and bursting with tropical flavor, this key lime curd will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

  • Bright and Tangy Flavor: This key lime curd offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a refreshing treat.
  • Versatile: It’s great for spreading on toast, topping desserts, or filling tarts and pies—there’s no limit to how you can enjoy it!
  • Made with Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh key limes gives this curd a vibrant, natural flavor that stands out from store-bought options.
  • Simple to Make: This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients and can be whipped up in no time.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a special dessert, this key lime curd adds a tropical touch to any dish.

Ingredients Needed

Ingredients needed for Homemade Key Lime Curd on kitchen table.
  • Fresh key limes: For a vibrant, tangy citrus flavor.
  • Sugar: To add sweetness and balance the tartness.
  • Eggs: To provide a smooth, creamy curd texture.
  • Butter: For richness and a silky, velvety finish.
  • Lime zest: For extra depth and aromatic lime flavor.
  • Salt: To enhance sweetness and bring out flavors.

How To Make Homemade Key Lime Curd

Whisking eggs, sugar, salt, key lime juice, and zest in a saucepan.

Step One: Zest and juice the key limes to get both lime zest and fresh lime juice.

Step Two: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Stir in the freshly squeezed key lime juice and lime zest into the egg mixture.

Step Three: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the curd thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and whisk in the cold butter, one tablespoon at a time, until fully melted and incorporated.

Step Four: For a smooth texture, strain the curd through a fine mesh sieve to remove the zest and any bits of egg.

Homemade Key Lime Curd made with fresh key limes, eggs, and butter.

Expert Tips

  • Use Fresh Key Limes: For the best flavor, always use fresh key limes. They provide a more vibrant and tangy taste compared to regular limes.
  • Don’t Overcook: When cooking the curd, make sure not to overcook it. If it becomes too thick or starts to curdle, it may lose its smooth texture.
  • Strain for Smoothness: Straining the curd through a fine mesh sieve removes any zest or egg bits, giving you a silky-smooth result.
  • Cool Before Storing: Let the curd cool completely before transferring it to a jar or container for storage. This helps maintain its texture and prevents condensation.
  • Storage: Homemade Key Lime Curd can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
  • Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter curd, you can increase the sugar slightly. Just be careful not to overpower the tartness of the key lime juice.
  • Butter for Richness: Always use cold, unsalted butter to create a smooth, rich texture that complements the tanginess of the lime.

Storing

  • Refrigeration: After the curd has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freezing: If you want to store it longer, you can freeze key lime curd for up to 3 months. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and thaw it in the fridge overnight when ready to use.
  • Serving Tips: Before serving, give the curd a quick stir to smooth it out, especially if it’s been refrigerated or frozen.
Homemade Key Lime Curd made with fresh key limes, butter, and eggs.

Key Lime Custard Recipe Easy Faqs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes? Yes, you can substitute regular limes if key limes aren’t available, though key limes offer a more intense and tangy flavor.

How do I know when the custard is done? The custard is ready when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. It should not be too runny, but still smooth.

Can I make the custard ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the custard ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.

Can I freeze Key Lime Custard? While custard can technically be frozen, it may alter the texture. If freezing, place it in an airtight container, leaving space for expansion, and thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the custard? Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more sugar, but be careful not to overpower the tangy lime flavor.

Homemade Key Lime Curd made with fresh key limes, butter, and eggs.

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Homemade Key Lime Curd with fresh key limes, creamy texture, and tangy flavor.

Homemade Key Lime Curd

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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings

Description

Make a delicious Homemade Key Lime Curd with fresh key limes, butter, and eggs. This easy, tangy curd is perfect for spreading on toast, filling tarts, or adding to desserts.

Ingredients 

  • 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice, about 10-12 key limes
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Instructions

  • Zest and juice the key limes to get the zest and fresh juice.
  • In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, salt, lime juice, and lime zest.
  • Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  • Once the mixture thickens, remove from heat and whisk in the cold butter pieces until fully melted and smooth.
  • For a smooth texture, strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve to remove zest and any bits of egg.
  • Let the curd cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 233kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 2gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 132mgSodium: 104mgPotassium: 39mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 606IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 19mgIron: 0.3mg

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