How Long Does Lemon Curd Last in the Fridge? Does Lemon Curd Go Bad?
Lemon curd is a delicious and versatile condiment. It can be used to top off cakes or cupcakes, stirred into yogurt or oatmeal, or simply eaten by the spoonful. However, because it is made with fresh lemons,sugar, butter, and eggs, it doesn’t last as long as some other pantry staples.
So, how long does lemon curd last in the fridge? The answer may surprise you – with proper storage, lemon curd can last up to two weeks in the fridge!
In this post, we will take a look at how to store lemon curd to prolong its shelf life. Of course, the ideal way to store it is by putting it in the fridge or freezing it. But you may also keep it at room temperature and maintain its freshness for a few days. In addition to that, we will look for some ideas to use leftover lemon curd, so it will not get wasted.
How Long Does Lemon Curd Last in the Refrigerator?
Lemon curd will last for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This is due to the high acidity level of lemon curd, which acts as a natural preservative. However, after two weeks, the lemon curd may begin to lose its flavor and texture.
If you’re looking to enjoy your lemon curd at its best, it’s best to use it within 2-3 weeks of making it. The shelf life of lemon curd depends on how it’s stored and how fresh the ingredients are.
For example, if you store it in a closed container in the refrigerator, your lemon curd can last up to two weeks. If you store it in an open container under refrigeration, it may only last 5-7 days. Also, the fresher your lemon curd is, the longer it will last.
If you plan to store lemon curd for a longer period of time, freeze it. To freeze lemon curd, pour the lemon curd into an airtight container and let the lemon curd cool completely before freezing. Then, thaw the frozen lemon curd in the refrigerator before using it.
So next time you’re craving something sweet and citrusy, whip up a batch of lemon curd and enjoy it while it lasts!
Unopened vs. Opened Lemon Curd Shelf Life
While lemon curd typically has a long shelf life, there are some things to keep in mind when storing lemon curd.
One important factor to consider is whether the lemon curd is open or unopened. Unopened lemon curd can be stored in the pantry for up to six months. However, once it’s been opened, it should be stored in the fridge and used within 3-4 weeks.
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| Another thing to keep in mind is that homemade lemon curd will generally have a shorter shelf life than store-bought varieties. This is because store-bought brands often contain preservatives that help extend their shelf life. |
Another thing to keep in mind is that homemade lemon curd will generally have a shorter shelf life than store-bought varieties. This is because store-bought brands often contain preservatives that help extend their shelf life.
How Do You Keep Lemon Curd Fresh in the Fridge?
Keeping lemon curd in the fridge will definitely prolong its shelf life, keep it fresh and maintain its flavor. But how do you store it in the fridge so that it stays fresh and delicious?
Here are a few tips to store them:
- Store lemon curd in a tightly sealed plastic container. This will prevent the lemon curd from drying out or absorbing any unwanted aromas from the fridge.
- Lemon curd will keep for up to 2 weeks in the fridge. After that, it may start to lose its flavor and texture.
- If you want to extend the shelf life of your lemon curd, you can freeze it. Frozen lemon curd will last for up to 6 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
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| If you’re not planning to use the newly cooked lemon curd right away, you can just keep it in the refrigerator where it will continue to thicken. |
How Do You Store Lemon Curd in Room Temperature?
While it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, sometimes you just need to store it at room temperature. Lemon curd can also be kept at room temperature for a few days if the weather is cool and the room is not too humid.
What is the proper way to store lemon curd at room temperature? Here are a few tips:
- Lemon curd can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.
- If your lemon curd starts to look dry or forms a skin, simply stir in a little bit of fresh lemon juice or water.
- If you’re planning on storing your lemon curd for longer than one week, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months.
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| Once the jar is opened, it is the same as handmade lemon curd and has to be chilled in the fridge. |
Does Lemon Curd Go Bad? (How Can You Tell?)
If you’ve had your curd for a while and are worried it might be bad, don’t worry. It’s likely fine because lemon curd is made with lemons. These fruits don’t spoil easily.
You could even eat them after they’ve softened. For some, this is a reason to replace lemon curd in the fridge every few weeks.
Even if it’s not spoiled, you might notice that the curd becomes less flavorful over time. Here are some guidelines to test if your lemon curd has gone bad:
- If the curd is moldy or smells bad, it’s a good idea to throw it out.
- If the curd is still good and you’ve had it for a while, try tasting it again. If it tastes weak and doesn’t have much flavor, toss it out.
- Make sure to taste your lemon curd before using it in lemon curd recipes.
The fact that lemon juice contains citric acid makes it a natural preservative. Lemon curd and other prepackaged foods frequently contain citric acid to increase their shelf life even after they have been opened.
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| Citric acid is a natural preservative, but it’s only safe for consumption in small quantities. – Citric acid can be dangerous if consumed in large doses since it’s not easily digestible. It can cause bloating, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. |
What To Do With Leftover Lemon Curd?
There are few things more satisfying than a tart made with leftover lemon curd. This recipe is simple and delicious, and can be easily adapted to whatever you have on hand.
Below are some ideas to use what leftover lemon curd you have in your possession.
Sandwich Filling
If you have leftover lemon curd, don’t let it go to waste! Use it to make a delicious sandwich filling.
To make the sandwich filling, start by spreading thick lemon curd on one slice of bread. Add your favorite toppings, such as sliced fruit or nuts. Then add another slice of bread on top.
This sandwich is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. The tart lemon flavor pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings. So get creative and enjoy your leftover lemon curd in a new way!
Lemon Curd Tarts
If you have some leftovers from making scones or pies, this tart is the perfect way to use them up. The bright flavor of lemon pairs well with the creamy lemon curd filling, and the flaky pastry crust is the perfect base for this dessert.
This tart can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. It’s the perfect treat to have on hand for when unexpected guests drop by or when you need a quick dessert. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream, and enjoy!
Spread over Cookies and Cakes
Lemon curd is a delicious, tart spread that can be used on all sorts of baked goods. Cookies, cakes, scones, and biscuits are all fair game for this bright and flavorful topping. If you find yourself with some leftover lemon curd, don’t let it go to waste – put it to good use by spreading it over your favorite desserts. You’ll be glad you did!
Conclusion
In conclusion, lemon curd can last up to two weeks in the fridge when stored correctly. To extend its shelf life, make sure to keep it in an airtight container and away from direct sunlight. With a little bit of care, you can enjoy this delicious spread for weeks to come.
