Lemon Custard Filling

A creamy, tangy lemon custard filling perfect for cakes, tarts, and pastries.

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon custard filling is a delightful addition to many desserts. Its creamy texture and bright, tangy flavor can elevate cakes, tarts, and pastries. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is easy to follow and produces a delicious result that everyone will love.

How to Make Lemon Custard Filling

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  1. In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Gradually add the milk while whisking until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  4. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks, then slowly add some of the hot mixture to temper the yolks.
  5. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
  6. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, butter, and vanilla extract.
  7. Cook for an additional minute.
  8. Remove from heat and let cool before using as a filling for cakes.

How to Serve Lemon Custard Filling

Lemon custard filling works well in many desserts. You can use it as a filling for layered cakes, tarts, or even as a topping for pancakes and waffles. It adds a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or fresh fruit.

How to Store Lemon Custard Filling

Store any leftover lemon custard filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.

Tips to Make Lemon Custard Filling

  • Make sure to whisk constantly while cooking to prevent the custard from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  • To avoid curdling, temper the egg yolks slowly with the hot mixture.
  • Taste the custard before using and adjust the lemon juice if you want it more tangy.

Variation

You can customize this lemon custard filling by adding different flavors. Try incorporating some lime juice and zest for a citrus twist or a touch of almond extract for a nutty flavor.

FAQs

What can I use lemon custard filling for?
Lemon custard filling is great for cakes, cookies, tarts, and pastries. It can also be served as a dip or topping for fruits.

Can I freeze lemon custard filling?
Yes, you can freeze lemon custard filling. Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

What if my custard does not thicken?
If the custard doesn’t thicken, it might need more cooking time. Make sure you’re cooking over medium heat and stirring constantly until it reaches the desired thickness.

Lemon Custard Filling

A creamy, tangy lemon custard filling perfect for cakes, tarts, and pastries.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dessert, Filling
Cuisine American, French
Servings 8 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  • Gradually add the milk while whisking until the mixture is smooth.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  • In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks, then slowly add some of the hot mixture to temper the yolks.
  • Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
  • Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, butter, and vanilla extract.
  • Cook for an additional minute.
  • Remove from heat and let cool before using as a filling for cakes.

Notes

Make sure to whisk constantly while cooking to prevent the custard from sticking to the bottom of the pan. To avoid curdling, temper the egg yolks slowly with the hot mixture. Taste the custard before using and adjust the lemon juice if you want it more tangy. Store leftover lemon custard filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 150mgSugar: 30g
Keyword Baking, Citrus, Custard Filling, Dessert Filling, Lemon Custard
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