Description
Italian Lemon Spread Delight is a bright, tangy, and creamy homemade lemon spread inspired by traditional Italian citrus desserts. This luscious spread bursts with fresh lemon flavor combined with a silky texture from butter and egg yolks. Perfect for toast, pancakes, or as a cake filling, it delivers a fresh Mediterranean twist that’s simple to make and irresistibly satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3–4 fresh lemons (for zest and juice, approx. 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest (avoid white pith)
Instructions
- Prepare the lemons: Thoroughly wash the lemons. Carefully zest the skin, avoiding the bitter white pith. Juice enough lemons to yield about half a cup of fresh lemon juice. Freshly squeezed juice is essential for vibrant flavor.
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar: In a heatproof bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened. This ensures a smooth, creamy spread without graininess.
- Cook the lemon mixture gently: Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water to create a double boiler. Slowly whisk in the lemon juice and zest. Cook gently for about 10 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, avoiding curdling.
- Add butter for richness: Remove the bowl from heat. Whisk in the butter pieces gradually until fully melted and incorporated, giving the spread a silky texture and rich flavor.
- Cool and store: Transfer the spread to a clean jar or container. Let it cool completely before sealing and refrigerating. The spread will thicken further as it chills.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for better blending and smoother texture.
- Constant stirring prevents lumps and ensures perfect custard consistency.
- The double boiler method provides gentle heat to cook eggs evenly without scrambling.
- Always use freshly grated lemon zest for the best citrus aroma and flavor.
- Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep freshness and flavor for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Double Boiler
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: lemon spread, Italian lemon spread, citrus spread, creamy lemon spread, lemon curd alternative, breakfast spread, dessert filling, gluten free, homemade lemon spread