What is the standard ratio for lemon curd?

The standard ratio per 100ml of lemon juice is 2 eggs, 100g caster sugar, and 50g butter. This produces approximately 300ml of lemon curd. The zest of the lemons is also added for extra flavour.

How many lemons do I need for lemon curd?

An average lemon yields about 45ml of juice. For a standard batch using 100ml of juice, you need approximately 3 lemons (2-3 for juice, with zest from all of them). Larger, juicy lemons may yield more.

How long does homemade fruit curd keep?

Fruit curd should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 2-3 weeks. Unlike jam, curd contains eggs and butter which means it does not have the same long shelf life. It can be frozen for up to 3 months — freeze in small portions.

Can I use whole eggs or just yolks?

The standard recipe uses whole eggs, which gives a lighter, slightly less rich curd. For a richer, more velvety curd, use 3 egg yolks in place of 2 whole eggs per 100ml juice. The colour will also be deeper with yolks only.

Why did my curd go lumpy?

Lumps usually mean the eggs have scrambled from too much heat. Cook curd gently over a low heat or in a bain-marie (heatproof bowl over simmering water), stirring constantly. Never let it boil. If lumps do form, strain through a fine sieve immediately.

BakeCalcs

Fruit Curd Calculator

Calculate egg, butter, and sugar quantities for fruit curd based on juice volume and fruit type.

Juice Volume

Fruit Type

How We Calculate This

This calculator uses the classic fruit curd ratio, scaling from the juice volume you enter. The ratio ensures the right balance of acid (juice), richness (eggs and butter), and sweetness (sugar) for a smooth, spoonable curd.

Ratio per 100ml Juice

Eggs: 2 whole eggs
Sugar: 100g caster sugar
Butter: 50g unsalted butter
Yield: approximately 300ml curd

Juice per Fruit (approximate)

Lemon: ~45ml per fruit
Lime: ~30ml per fruit
Orange: ~80ml per fruit
Passion fruit: ~15ml per fruit

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Jam Sugar Ratio Calculator

Calculate the sugar quantity needed for jam based on fruit weight and pectin level.

Jam Jar Quantity Calculator

Calculate how many jars a batch of jam will fill based on total yield and jar size.

Marmalade Calculator

Calculate fruit, sugar, and water quantities for marmalade by batch size.

Chutney Calculator

Calculate vinegar, sugar, and spice quantities for chutney based on fruit or vegetable weight.

Pickling Brine Calculator

Calculate vinegar, salt, sugar, and water quantities for pickling brine by jar volume.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are based on standard ratios and conversions. Results may vary with specific ingredients, equipment, and conditions.