*Lemon Custard (curd)

I'm not sure where to begin with this delicious treat. This is a lemon custard thats just spectacular. Its so wonderful and delightfully creamy. I can't help but to steal spoonfuls time and again just to go Woo hoo! How spectacular is this!? Its really a great reminder of the best things in life. Something as simple as a lemon can really brighten up your day. Citrus is such a happy, crisp and bright flavor that I often over look unfortunately.  This recipe is multi-purpose according to your needs you can use it however you'd like. You can serve it over scones with butter (such as Irish soda farls), put it into a tart and top with fresh fruit, top with whipped cream and serve as a pudding, or even serve it over pound cake as I planned with this. Ultimately though, I like stealing it in the middle of the night huddled up with a spoon. 

Its really wonderful and easy to make. In fact I made mine in the microwave in ten minutes. While it may be frowned upon to make something so delightful in the microwave I've come to really appreciate my microwave as a sacred appliance. For various reasons really,  mainly I'm still adjusting to having an electric stove top. I really do despise electric ranges, but living in seclusion has its rewards...affordable gas ranges is not one of them. You can do this on the stove top in a pan or just microwave it. Its a great treat that will surely satisfy any cravings for comfort. The hardest part is sharing.

Lemon Custard (curd):
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
1 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup butter (melted)

Zest of 1 lemon (or 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a microwave safe bowl or in a small sauce pot combine sugar, eggs, lemon juice and butter. Stir to combine well.

For the stove:
Place over medium low heat and very very slowly heat until thick. (you don't want your custard to burn at the bottom of the pot)

For the microwave:
Microwave at 1 minute intervals stirring in between. Mine took 10 minutes but this may vary according to your microwave. It will be a rapid boil, stir for a few minutes.

The custard is done when its thick enough to coat a spoon. If you can run your finger over the the spoon and theres clearly definition where you slid your finger then your custard should be finished. Keep in mind it will get thicker as it rests. Refrigerate for 2-6 hours before serving.

If you find your having trouble getting a thick custard you could combine 1-2 tablespoons of corn starch with lemon juice, heavy cream/milk or even water. Combine this mixture and bring to a slow boil again either by microwave or stove top.