If you’re looking for a dessert that feels both luxuriously creamy and refreshingly tangy, you are going to adore this Lemon Posset Recipe. This classic British treat is incredibly simple to make yet delivers on taste with its delicate balance of zesty lemon brightness and rich, velvety creaminess. It’s the kind of dessert that feels special but comes together effortlessly, perfect for surprising friends or treating yourself to something truly delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Lemon Posset Recipe is how few ingredients it requires. Each element plays a crucial role, contributing to the silky texture, sweetness, and that signature burst of lemon zing.
- Heavy whipping cream: The star of the dessert, providing the luscious, smooth base that transforms into a creamy pudding.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tartness without overpowering the lemon.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best to deliver bright, natural acidity and depth of flavor.
- Lemon slice or berries: Optional, but perfect for adding a pop of color and extra freshness when serving.
How to Make Lemon Posset Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Cream and Sugar
Begin by combining the heavy whipping cream and sugar in a small saucepan. Stir continuously as you bring the mixture to a boil. It’s important to keep an eye on the heat to prevent the cream from boiling over, but maintaining a steady medium boil for five minutes is key — this step thickens the cream perfectly to give your posset its signature rich texture.
Step 2: Add the Lemon Juice
Once your cream and sugar have boiled adequately, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. This is where the magic happens — the acid in the lemon curdles the cream just enough, creating a silky, slightly set mix. Let it cool for about 15 minutes before straining it through a fine mesh sieve. This removes any lumps and creates that perfectly smooth consistency.
Step 3: Fill Your Serving Containers
Whether you choose charming ramekins or even hollowed-out lemon halves for a whimsical touch, pour the strained mixture until it is about three-quarters full. This allows the posset room to set properly for that delightful, jiggly firmness.
Step 4: Refrigerate and Set
Pop your possets into the refrigerator and let them chill for at least two hours. During this time, they’ll firm up into the velvety texture that makes this dessert stand out. Once set, they’re ready for the finishing touches and serving.
How to Serve Lemon Posset Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a thin lemon slice elevate the posset’s visual appeal and add delightful contrast. Bright berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, introduce a juicy tang and vibrant color that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
Side Dishes
Because Lemon Posset is light and refreshing, it pairs wonderfully with crisp, buttery cookies like shortbread or delicate meringues. You could even serve it alongside a subtly sweet almond cake to round out a more substantial dessert course without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, try serving your posset in hollowed lemon halves or clear shot glasses layered with crushed biscotti or cookie crumbs. These presentations add texture and make your Lemon Posset Recipe feel even more special when entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, Lemon Posset keeps beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to use airtight containers to protect the delicate flavors and creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing posset isn’t usually recommended as the texture can suffer, becoming grainy or separated upon thawing. This dessert shines best when enjoyed fresh and chilled.
Reheating
Since posset is a cold-set dessert, reheating isn’t necessary or advisable. Instead, allow refrigerated portions to come to a gentle room temperature if you prefer it slightly less chilled before serving.
FAQs
Can I use lemon juice from a bottle for this Lemon Posset Recipe?
While fresh lemon juice provides the brightest and most natural flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just make sure it’s pure lemon juice without additives to maintain the dessert’s authentic taste.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
This recipe relies on the richness of heavy cream for its creamy texture, so using alternatives like half-and-half or milk will affect the final consistency and flavor. For best results, stick to heavy whipping cream.
How long does the Lemon Posset need to chill?
At minimum, allow at least two hours for chilling in the refrigerator. This gives the posset enough time to fully set into its characteristic silky firmness.
Is this recipe suitable for making in advance for parties?
Absolutely! Lemon Posset is a great make-ahead dessert because it stores well in the refrigerator and can be prepared a day or two before your event.
Can I add other flavors to the Lemon Posset?
Yes, you can experiment by adding a splash of vanilla extract or infusing the cream with herbs like lavender for a unique twist. However, the classic lemon flavor is delightfully bright and satisfying on its own.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Posset Recipe is going to become one of your go-to desserts because it combines simplicity, elegance, and satisfying flavor in one little creamy cup. Give it a try next time you want to wow someone with a dessert that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
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Lemon Posset Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings (about 2 1/2 cups total)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Description
Lemon Posset is a classic British dessert featuring a rich, creamy custard with a bright lemony tang. Made with just three main ingredients—heavy cream, sugar, and fresh lemon juice—this no-bake treat is delightfully simple to prepare. It sets into a silky, luscious pudding that’s perfect for any occasion, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Posset
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 5 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 3 lemons)
For Serving (optional)
- Whipped cream
- Lemon slices or fresh berries
Instructions
- Boil: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar completely. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then adjust to maintain a gentle boil for 5 minutes, being careful to prevent it from boiling over.
- Add lemon: Remove the saucepan from heat. Slowly stir in the fresh lemon juice until fully incorporated. Let the mixture cool at room temperature for 15 minutes. Then, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup with a pouring lip to remove any lumps or zest remnants.
- Fill: Pour the strained mixture evenly into 6 ramekins or alternatively into 10 to 12 hollowed-out lemon halves if you prefer a charming presentation. Fill each container about three-quarters full to allow the posset to set properly.
- Refrigerate: Place the filled containers into the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours until the possets are fully set and firm to the touch.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top each posset with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a lemon slice or fresh berries for added freshness and visual appeal.
Notes
- Heavy cream is essential as it provides the rich texture and helps the posset to set properly.
- Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and acidity.
- The posset thickens as it cools, so do not overfill the containers to ensure proper setting.
- You can prepare the possets a day ahead for convenience.
- If desired, add a little lemon zest to the mixture for extra citrus aroma.
