Spring Meyer Lemon Curd Recipe – A Sweet Homemade Hostess Gift

This easy Meyer lemon curd recipe is bright and creamy. Package it as a sweet spring hostess gift and download our free printable gift tag.

Spring is the perfect time for simple homemade treats, and this Meyer lemon curd is one of my favorites. It’s bright, creamy, and full of fresh lemon flavor—like a little bit of sunshine in the kitchen.

I love making a small batch to enjoy with toast, croissants, or biscuits for a sweet springtime treat. Spoon some into a small jar, tie on a ribbon, and it also becomes the sweetest little hostess gift for spring gatherings. It’s such a thoughtful homemade touch.

A Sweet Homemade Hostess Gift Idea

If you’re visiting family for Easter or going to a spring gathering with friends, a small jar of homemade lemon curd makes such a delightful hostess gift. 

Spoon the lemon curd into a small glass jar and tie a ribbon or piece of twine around the lid. I’ve included a free printable tag below that you can attach to the jar. 

For an extra sweet touch, pair the jar with:

• Fresh scones or biscuits
  
• A small loaf of pound cake
  
• A tea towel or wooden honey dipper
  
• A basket with a few lemons for a cheerful spring look
  

Free Printable Tag 

I just love a free printable, so I am including a printable tag below to add to the hostess gift.  It can be uploaded to Walgreens and printed to wallet size (2×3 in) to fit right on a jar. So cute!!

It’s one of those little gifts that feels personal and thoughtful, and it’s perfect for spring entertaining. Download it here

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Yield: About 1½ cups

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
  
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (I use 2 meyer lemons)
  
• 6 large egg yolks
  
• 7 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about ½ cup)
  
• ½ cup salted butter, cold and cubed
  

How To Make Lemon Curd

1. Zest the lemons.
   I use a food processor and pulse the lemon zest with the sugar for a few seconds. This helps release the lemon oils and gives the curd even more flavor, but it’s completely optional.
   
2. Juice the lemons.
   Squeeze the lemons until you have about ½ cup of juice, then strain out any seeds.
   
3. Prepare the egg mixture.
   In a saucepan, whisk the egg yolks until lightly blended. Add the sugar and whisk until the mixture looks slightly lighter in color. Slowly stir in the lemon juice.
   
4. Cook the curd.
   Place the saucepan over low heat and cook while whisking consistently with a wire whisk. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, begins to bubble slightly, and coats the back of a spoon.
   
5. Add the butter.
   Remove the pan from the heat and add the cold butter cubes. Stir until the butter melts and the curd becomes smooth and glossy.
   
6. Optional step for extra smoothness.
   For a silky finish, strain the curd through a fine mesh strainer to remove any zest or small bits.
   
7. Cool and store.
   Transfer the lemon curd to a jar or container to prevent a skin from forming. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Expert Tips

• The lemon curd will thicken as it cools, so be sure to let it chill completely.
• I like to make it a day or two ahead of time so it’s ready to go when I need it.
• Stir it in your yogurt or oatmeal for a healthy snack.
• Mix one container of whipped topping for a quick fruit or dessert dip.
• If you’re short on time, store-bought lemon curd works just as well—simply add the printable tag and you still have a charming little hostess gift.

Love Lemon? Try my Lemon Loaf Recipe. So delicious! Easy Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf

Meyer Lemon Curd Recipe

Let me know in the comments if you try this recipe or give it as a gift!