What is curd?

Ever wanted to know more about this bold and fruity cupboard staple? We’re all used to spreading it on our buttery toast every morning but the origins of this fruity dessert spread are fascinating. So squeeze the day, read on to become a curd nerd and understand where it originates, the different types, how to make it and how best to eat this yummy sweet treat!

What is curd?

Fruit curd is a dessert spread and topping usually made with citrus fruit. The basic ingredients are beaten egg yolks, sugar, fruit juice, and zest, which are gently cooked together until thick and then allowed to cool, forming a soft, smooth, flavourful spread. Curd has a thicker texture similar to custard. ‘Lemon Curd’ is originally English in origin dating back to the early 1800’s. The recipe back then was rather literal — lemon acidulating cream to form curds then separated from the whey through a cheesecloth. Long time Cottage Delight fans may remember our Lemon Curd as ‘Lemon Cheese’.

Types of fruit curd

While there’s almost no limit to the options you can try when it comes to varieties of fruit curd, the most popular are Berry, Citrus and Tropical.

Citrus is a perfect option thanks to natural flavours that range from sweet and tangy to sour and bitter. Drizzle our Lemon & Lime All Butter Curd over natural yoghurt and fresh berries or create a zesty mousse. Berry flavoured curds are easily some of the most versatile flavours for cooking. Finally there are tropical flavoured curds, exotic and unique, these offer a twist which you may not have tried before. Our Passion Fruit & Mango All Butter Curd is perfect for adding a tropical twist to freshly baked scones for afternoon tea.

How to make lemon curd

When life gives you lemons, make Lemon Curd. Lemon Curd is a super easy recipe to try at home. You will only need a few ingredients and around 10 minutes to make this tasty dessert accompaniment,

Ingredients:

2 lemons, zest and juice
50g butter
100g caster sugar
2 eggs, beaten

Method:

Put the lemon zest, juice, sugar and butter in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water. Stir occasionally until the butter has melted. Then, using a small whisk, stir in the beaten egg. Keep gently whisking the mixture over the heat for around 10 mins until thickened.
Pour the cooked curd through a sieve into a jug to remove the zest, then pour into jars. Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
If you prefer to stay out of the kitchen, why not try Cottage Delight Lemon Curd, made using our own traditional home made recipe.

Common questions about fruit curd

What is fruit curd made from? The basic ingredients are beaten egg yolks, sugar, fruit juice, and zest, which are gently cooked together until thick and then allowed to cool, forming a soft, smooth, flavourful spread.
What is the difference between curd and jam? Fruit curds are distinctly different from jams, since curds are made by cooking down fruit juice with sugar rather than the whole fruit. The result is a creamier spread.
What is fruit curd used for? If you’ve made or been gifted some lemon curd and aren’t sure where to start, here are some basic ideas of how to use it. It’s so versatile!

As a topping: on scones, toast, crumpets, waffles, ice cream, cheese cake or cookies
As a filling: between cake layers, in a tart, in macaroons or inside a crepe
In a recipe: if you need some more inspiration, we have dozens of curd recipes!

Our curd selection

Our delicious collection of dreamy curds boasts both traditional flavours and vibrant combinations to please even the pickiest of palates. They’re carefully crafted for great taste in our kitchens in the Staffordshire Moorlands, then delivered straight to your table.

Our curds are: