If you are craving a dessert that is delightfully creamy, refreshingly tangy, and effortlessly elegant, then this Lemon Posset Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. This classic British treat boasts a silky texture that melts in your mouth, perfectly balanced by the bright, zesty punch of real lemon juice. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dessert comes together quickly yet feels like a special indulgence, making it an ideal choice whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this Lemon Posset Recipe is incredibly simple, relying on just a few essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering that luscious flavor and texture. Choosing quality elements will truly elevate the final dessert.
- Heavy whipping cream: The rich foundation of the posset, providing a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemons.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brings freshness and that unmistakable citrus zing that defines this dessert.
- Lemon slice or berries (optional for serving): Simple garnishes that add a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.
How to Make Lemon Posset Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Cream and Sugar
Start by combining the heavy cream and granulated sugar in a small saucepan. Stir occasionally as you gently heat the mixture, ensuring the sugar fully dissolves. Once it reaches a boil, keep it at a steady medium boil for 5 full minutes. This crucial step deepens the cream’s flavor while thickening it just enough to set beautifully.
Step 2: Add Fresh Lemon Juice
Remove the pan from the heat and immediately whisk in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. The citrus acidity will cause the cream to thicken further, creating that signature velvety texture. Let the mixture cool for about 15 minutes, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve to ensure a perfectly smooth posset without any lumps.
Step 3: Pour into Ramekins or Lemon Halves
Divide this luscious mixture between 6 ramekins or use lemon halves for a fun and natural serving option. Fill each container about three-quarters full, giving the posset the right thickness as it sets. This small detail will make your dessert firm yet velvety delicious.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
Place your filled ramekins or lemon halves into the fridge and let them chill for at least 2 hours. Patience here rewards you with a perfectly set, silky dessert. Before serving, you can adorn each posset with a dollop of whipped cream and a bright lemon slice or some fresh berries for that finishing touch.
How to Serve Lemon Posset Recipe
Garnishes
Simple touches like a thin lemon slice or a handful of vibrant fresh berries can add visual appeal and a burst of freshness that complements the rich creaminess of the posset. A light dusting of lemon zest can also elevate the aroma and flavor profile beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines as a standalone treat, but pairing it with a crisp shortbread cookie or some buttery biscotti adds a pleasant crunch. A small scoop of berry sorbet alongside can also introduce a refreshing contrast to the decadent creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try serving the Lemon Posset Recipe in hollowed-out lemon halves for an eye-catching presentation. Alternatively, layer the posset in clear glasses with crushed meringue or fresh berries to create a stunning layered dessert that’s as tasty as it is beautiful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Lemon Posset can be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Its delicate texture remains intact, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for dazzle without stress.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it may slightly alter the creamy texture upon thawing. If you must freeze it, transfer the posset to airtight containers and use within a month for the best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge rather than at room temperature.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a warmer treat, consider another lemon-flavored dessert, but savor the posset straight from the fridge to appreciate its silky, refreshing qualities.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
For the best flavor and brightness, fresh lemon juice is always recommended in this Lemon Posset Recipe. Bottled juice tends to lack the fresh, vibrant notes and can affect the dessert’s texture slightly.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
The heavy cream is essential for the rich, creamy texture of the posset. Low-fat creams or milk will not set properly and will change the taste and consistency entirely.
Can I make Lemon Posset Recipe vegan?
Traditional posset relies on dairy cream, but you might experiment with full-fat coconut cream. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ, and the citrus reaction that sets the posset might not work the same way.
How long does it take for the posset to set?
The posset needs at least 2 hours in the fridge to set firmly, but you can leave it longer if you like, even overnight, which often improves the flavor melding.
Can I add other flavors to the posset?
Absolutely! While lemon is classic, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or infuse the cream with herbs like lavender for a unique twist on this Lemon Posset Recipe. Just be careful not to overpower the lemon’s brightness.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you’re inspired to make this Lemon Posset Recipe soon because it’s one of those desserts that feels like a little celebration every time you take a bite. Its simplicity is deceptive, as the flavor is remarkably rich and elegant. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner or a weekend treat, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite. Trust me, once you experience that creamy, lemony bliss, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.
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Lemon Posset Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Posset is a classic British chilled dessert that’s creamy, tangy, and incredibly easy to make with just three main ingredients: cream, sugar, and fresh lemon juice. This luscious, silky pudding sets beautifully in the fridge and can be served in elegant ramekins or lemon halves for a charming presentation. It’s perfect for a refreshing treat or a simple yet sophisticated dessert at any gathering.
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)
- Lemon slice or fresh berries
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Boil: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Stir continuously over medium heat to fully dissolve the sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle medium boil for 5 minutes, ensuring it does not boil over.
- Add lemon: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the fresh lemon juice. Allow the mixture to cool for about 15 minutes. Next, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup with a pouring lip to remove any curdled bits, resulting in a smooth custard.
- Fill: Pour the lemon posset mixture evenly into 6 ramekins or, if preferred, into 10-12 hollowed-out lemon halves. Fill each container approximately three-quarters full to allow the dessert to set properly.
- Refrigerate: Place the filled containers in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until the posset is fully set and chilled. Before serving, optionally garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a lemon slice or fresh berries for a vibrant presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best tartness and flavor.
- Be careful to maintain a steady medium boil to prevent the cream from boiling over.
- Straining the mixture ensures a silky smooth texture, removing any curdled bits formed during the lemon juice addition.
- Serving in lemon halves adds a beautiful and natural presentation for special occasions.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
