Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lemon Butter
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (adds extra citrus punch)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for the right balance of sweet and tart)
- 8 large egg yolks (gives the curd its smooth texture)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (richness and creaminess)
- Pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)
How to Make Slow Cooker Lemon Butter (Curd)
Making lemon butter in a slow cooker is as easy as it gets. Here’s your step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Whisk the Base
In the bowl of your slow cooker, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, and egg yolks until well combined. You want the mixture to be smooth and free of lumps before adding the butter.
Step 2: Add the Butter and Salt
Next, toss in the small pieces of unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt. Stir to incorporate everything together.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to the low heat setting. Let the mixture cook for 1 to 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. As it cooks, the butter will melt and the mixture will thicken. Be patient and let the slow cooker work its magic!
Step 4: Check the Consistency
Once the curd has thickened to a spreadable consistency and coats the back of a spoon, it’s ready to be strained. Don’t skip this step—straining it through a fine mesh sieve ensures a perfectly smooth texture without any lumps.
Step 5: Strain the Curd
Carefully strain the curd into a bowl using a fine mesh sieve to remove any bits of egg or zest. This step ensures your curd will have that silky smooth consistency that makes it so irresistible.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Pour the strained lemon butter into sterilized jars and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the jars and place them in the refrigerator. The lemon butter will continue to thicken as it chills, reaching the perfect spreadable consistency.
How to Store Lemon Butter
- Refrigerate: Your homemade lemon butter will last in the fridge for 2-3 weeks. Keep it in an airtight jar, and it’ll stay fresh and ready for use.
- Freeze: If you want to keep your lemon butter for longer, you can freeze it. Simply store it in freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
What to Do With Your Lemon Butter
This slow cooker lemon butter curd is incredibly versatile and can be used in so many ways. Here are a few ideas:
- Spread on Toast or Muffins: Lemon butter makes the perfect topping for your morning toast or muffins. The zesty tang and creamy texture will make your breakfast shine.
- Fill Cakes and Tarts: Use it as a filling for lemon tarts, cakes, or pastries. It’s a delicious way to add a burst of citrus to your desserts.
- Top Pancakes or Waffles: Skip the syrup and drizzle your lemon butter over pancakes or waffles for a fresh twist on a classic breakfast.
- Swirl into Yogurt: For a refreshing snack, swirl some lemon butter into your favorite yogurt.
- Serve with Scones or Biscuits: Lemon butter is a fantastic addition to freshly baked scones or biscuits, giving them a zesty upgrade.
- Simply Enjoy it on its Own: It’s so delicious that you might find yourself enjoying it straight from the spoon!
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Lemon Butter (Curd)
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients, you can make something that tastes like it took hours of effort.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Set it and forget it! The slow cooker makes it super easy to prepare, so you can focus on other things.
- Endlessly Versatile: Lemon butter works in so many dishes, making it a must-have staple in your kitchen.
- Perfect Texture: The slow cooking method ensures a creamy, smooth texture that’s hard to beat.
- Gift-Worthy: Packaged in cute jars, this lemon butter makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family.
Fun Facts About Lemon Butter
Did you know that lemon curd was originally a British dessert? It was often used as a filling for cakes and tarts, and it quickly became a beloved treat. The addition of butter gives it that extra creamy richness, making it a more luxurious version of traditional lemon curd. It’s been a favorite in kitchens for centuries and continues to be one of the most popular citrus-based spreads today.
Quick Recap
- Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, egg yolks, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt.
- Cooking Time: 1-2 hours on low heat, with stirring every 30 minutes.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 2-3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
- Uses: Spread on toast, drizzle over desserts, fill cakes, or enjoy straight from the spoon.
This slow cooker lemon butter curd is perfect for adding a bit of sunshine to your day. Whether you’re enjoying it on your morning toast or using it as a cake filling, its creamy texture and tangy sweetness are sure to delight. So, grab your slow cooker, and get ready to make this irresistible treat. Your taste buds will thank you!