If you’re craving a dessert that is effortlessly elegant and bursting with bright, zesty flavor, you absolutely must try this Lemon Posset Recipe. This classic British treat is marvelously simple, using just a few basic ingredients to create a silky smooth, creamy pudding that perfectly balances tart lemon with rich cream. It’s a delightful finale that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light, an absolute crowd-pleaser and a total kitchen win every time.
Lemon Posset Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Lemon Posset Recipe shines because of its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that luscious texture and vibrant lemon punch that make this dessert so memorable. You’d be amazed how a handful of staples can come together to create such a showstopper.
- Heavy whipping cream: Provides the rich, velvety base that sets into a smooth, luscious posset.
- Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the tang of the lemon juice.
- Lemon juice: Infuses the dessert with fresh, lively citrus flavor that brightens up every bite.
- Lemon slices or berries (optional): Ideal for garnish, adding a pop of color and refreshing contrast.
How to Make Lemon Posset Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Cream and Sugar
Start by gently heating the heavy cream and sugar in a small saucepan. Stir constantly as the sugar dissolves to ensure it blends smoothly with the cream. Once it reaches a boil, turn the heat slightly down to maintain a medium boil for five minutes. This step is essential—it thickens the cream and caramelizes the sugar just enough to create that rich, silky body that defines a perfect posset.
Step 2: Stir in the Lemon Juice
Remove your saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the fresh lemon juice. The citrus reacts with the hot cream, helping it set into the delicate custard texture we’re aiming for. Let this mixture cool for about 15 minutes, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve to ensure your posset is impeccably smooth, free from any pulp or zest.
Step 3: Fill Your Serving Dishes
Carefully pour the strained lemon cream mixture into ramekins or, for a charming presentation, hollowed-out lemon halves. Filling your containers about three quarters full gives the posset just the right thickness once chilled. This is where the magic starts to set, transforming your creamy concoction into a spoonable delight.
Step 4: Chill until Set
Refrigerate your possets for at least two hours. Patience pays off here, as chilling lets the dessert fully firm up into that signature silky custard. When ready to serve, sprinkle a dollop of whipped cream or garnish with a bright lemon slice or fresh berries to elevate the presentation and add extra flavor harmony.
How to Serve Lemon Posset Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes really make this dessert pop. A thin curl or slice of fresh lemon on top enhances the vibrant citrus notes, while a few fresh berries add color and a sweet-tart counterpoint. A light dusting of grated lemon zest or a sprig of fresh mint also elevates the look and aroma beautifully.
Side Dishes
Lemon Posset pairs wonderfully with crunchy shortbread cookies or light, buttery biscuits to contrast its smooth texture. For a fresh twist, serve alongside a mixed green salad with herbs or a fruit compote, turning it into a delightful, balanced summer treat that’s both refreshing and decadent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow-factor, try serving the Lemon Posset Recipe in hollowed lemon halves, making each portion a natural bowl that’s both pretty and practical. Layer with crushed biscotti for texture, or build a parfait with alternating layers of posset and macerated berries in clear glasses. This lends an elegant flair, perfect for intimate dinners or festive gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Lemon Posset keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Cover your ramekins tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent odors from permeating. This makes it an ideal dessert to prepare ahead of a dinner party or family meal.
Freezing
While this posset is best enjoyed fresh for ultimate creaminess, you can freeze it if needed. Place in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. When thawed, the texture may be a bit less silky but still delicious and refreshing.
Reheating
This dessert is designed to be served chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended as it could break the delicate texture. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge for that perfect cool, creamy consistency that makes the Lemon Posset Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
What makes a posset different from other desserts?
A posset is uniquely creamy and simple, relying on the thickening power of cream and citrus without eggs or gelatin. Its light yet rich texture sets it apart from custards or puddings that use more complex thickening agents.
Can I use lime or other citrus juices instead of lemon?
Absolutely! While lemon is classic, lime or orange juice can be swapped for a delightful twist. Just ensure you use fresh juice to keep that bright, natural flavor.
Is it possible to make this dessert dairy-free?
This recipe traditionally depends on heavy cream, which provides its signature texture. For a dairy-free version, experimenting with full-fat coconut cream might work, though the flavor and texture will be different but still delicious.
How long does it take for the posset to set?
Typically, chilling the posset for at least two hours is necessary for it to fully set into a silky, spoonable consistency. Overnight chilling yields the best texture and flavor.
Can I make Lemon Posset Recipe ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Lemon Posset holds up very well when made in advance, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert. Just prepare and refrigerate, then garnish just before serving for a stress-free party treat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about enjoying a dessert that’s both simple and sophisticated, and that’s exactly what this Lemon Posset Recipe delivers. It’s a brilliant way to impress guests or treat yourself without fuss. Whip up a batch, savor each tangy, creamy bite, and watch it become your new favorite go-to dessert in no time.
Print
Lemon Posset Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings (makes about 2 1/2 cups total)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Posset is a luscious and creamy British dessert that combines the rich flavor of heavy cream with the bright, tangy freshness of lemon juice. This simple no-bake dessert sets into a smooth, silky custard-like texture with just three main ingredients, making it an elegant yet easy sweet treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Posset Base
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 5 Tbsp lemon juice (from about 3 lemons)
Optional Garnish
- Lemon slice or fresh berries
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Boil: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture continuously over medium heat to fully dissolve the sugar. Bring the cream to a gentle boil, then maintain a medium boil for 5 minutes while being careful that it does not boil over.
- Add lemon: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the lemon juice thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cool for 15 minutes. After cooling, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup with a pouring lip to ensure a smooth texture.
- Fill: Portion the strained mixture into 6 ramekins or alternatively into 10 to 12 hollowed-out lemon halves for a creative presentation. Fill each container approximately 3/4 full to allow the posset to set properly.
- Refrigerate: Chill the filled ramekins or lemon shells in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the posset is fully set and firm. Just before serving, top with optional whipped cream and garnish with lemon slices or fresh berries for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor and natural acidity.
- Heavy cream must reach a boiling point for the posset to set correctly.
- The straining step ensures a perfectly smooth and silky texture.
- Serving in lemon halves adds a beautiful and natural presentation.
- This dessert should be kept refrigerated and consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
