If you are looking for the ultimate creamy, tangy, and effortlessly elegant dessert, this Lemon Posset Recipe has you covered. It’s a classic British treat that beautifully balances luscious smoothness with bright citrus notes, making it perfect for any occasion. The simplicity of just a few ingredients transforms into a rich, dreamy pudding that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Once you make this, it’s sure to become one of your favorite desserts to impress friends or enjoy as a personal treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Lemon Posset Recipe truly shine is the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the creamy texture to that irresistible lemon punch—ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced and satisfying.
- Heavy cream (2 cups / 500 ml): This thick, rich cream is the base that makes the posset so luxuriously smooth and velvety.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup / 150 g): Sweetens the dessert while helping to create its delicate set texture.
- Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Adds a bright, fragrant aroma to lift the flavors and give that fresh citrus boost.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice (1/3 cup / 80 ml): The key acidic component that sets the cream perfectly and gives the posset its signature tang.
How to Make Lemon Posset Recipe
Step 1: Combine Cream and Sugar
Start by pouring the heavy cream and granulated sugar into a medium saucepan. Stir them together gently so the sugar begins to dissolve before you turn on the heat. Getting this mix uniform early on helps everything cook evenly.
Step 2: Bring to a Gentle Boil
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously as the mixture warms. The goal is to reach a gentle boil without scorching the cream. As it heats, the sugar dissolves fully, creating a smooth, sweet base.
Step 3: Simmer for Perfect Texture
Once boiling, lower the heat slightly and let the cream-sugar blend simmer for exactly 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid any sticking or burning. This simmer is crucial for achieving the luscious, silky texture of the posset.
Step 4: Add Lemon Zest and Juice
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The acidity from the lemon juice will instantly begin to thicken the cream, while the zest infuses its citrus oils and aroma.
Step 5: Cool Slightly
Allow the mixture to rest at room temperature for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice it starts to thicken as it cools, a lovely sign you’re on your way to that perfect set.
Step 6: Pour into Serving Dishes
Divide the posset mixture evenly into pretty glasses or ramekins. This is when the creamy texture really takes center stage, and presentation can make it extra special.
Step 7: Chill Until Set
Cover each serving with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until completely set and chilled. Patience here pays off with that delightful, custard-like wobble you want.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, add a bit of flair by topping with extra lemon zest, fresh berries, or even a sprig of mint. These little touches complement the bright flavor and elevate the look beautifully.
How to Serve Lemon Posset Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of lemon zest on top is classic, but fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries add a lovely pop of color and a slight tartness that pairs perfectly with the creamy posset. A small mint leaf can also introduce freshness and sophistication.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own, but if you want to complement it, consider serving alongside simple shortbread cookies or delicate almond biscuits. Their crumbly texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth posset, making each spoonful a delightful experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Lemon Posset Recipe in mini mason jars or shot glasses for casual gatherings. For a more formal feel, elegant glass ramekins or vintage crystal bowls provide a lovely touch. Adding layered textures like crushed pistachios or caramelized sugar shards on top can turn this humble dessert into a dazzling centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Lemon posset keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly covered to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors, and you’ll enjoy that fresh, creamy texture with every serving.
Freezing
Freezing posset isn’t recommended as the delicate cream texture can separate upon thawing, losing its smooth silkiness. It’s best enjoyed fresh chilled.
Reheating
Because this is a chilled dessert, reheating isn’t necessary or advised. Its beauty is in its cold, creamy finish, so simply serve directly from the fridge for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use lemon juice from a bottle instead of fresh lemons?
For the brightest flavor and best setting, fresh lemon juice is preferred. Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but it often lacks the vibrant freshness and may alter the texture slightly.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Heavy cream is essential for that rich, smooth texture in this Lemon Posset Recipe. Using lighter creams or milk will result in a thinner, less creamy dessert that may not set properly.
How long should I chill the lemon posset?
Chilling for at least 4 hours is crucial to allow it to fully set and develop its luxurious texture. Overnight chilling is even better if you have time.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This classic recipe relies on dairy cream to achieve its signature texture, so it’s challenging to create a vegan or dairy-free version without changing the nature of the dessert. However, experimenting with coconut cream might yield a tasty alternative.
What can I do if my lemon posset doesn’t set?
If your posset doesn’t set firmly, it might not have simmered long enough or chilled sufficiently. Try simmering for an extra minute next time, and be sure to refrigerate for the full recommended time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dessert that feels both simple and indulgent at the same time, and this Lemon Posset Recipe fits that description perfectly. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a refreshing and elegant pudding that’s destined to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try today, and prepare to delight yourself and anyone lucky enough to share it with you!
Print
Lemon Posset Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 10m
- Total Time: 4h 20m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Description
Lemon Posset is a classic British dessert made with just three main ingredients: heavy cream, sugar, and lemon. This creamy, tangy dessert is quick to prepare and requires minimal cooking, resulting in a velvety smooth texture and a refreshing citrus flavor. Perfect for a light and elegant finish to any meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups (500 ml) heavy cream
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine cream and sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Stir well to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Heat to boiling: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring continuously to ensure the sugar completely dissolves.
- Simmer the mixture: After reaching a boil, reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Add lemon flavor: Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice to infuse the posset with bright citrus notes.
- Cool slightly: Allow the mixture to sit and cool off for about 5 minutes. The dessert will begin to thicken as it cools.
- Pour into serving dishes: Divide the lemon cream mixture evenly into individual serving glasses or ramekins.
- Chill to set: Cover each serving with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the posset is fully set and chilled.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh berries for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor and texture.
- The posset will thicken as it chills, so be sure to allow enough refrigeration time.
- For a decorative touch, garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves.
- This dessert is best served chilled and should be consumed within 2 days of preparation.
- Ensure to stir constantly during boiling to avoid the cream from scorching on the bottom of the pan.
