Name: Chocolate Orange Posset
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: British/European
Ingredients: 600 ml double cream (heavy cream); 150 g caster sugar (superfine sugar); Zest of 1 large orange; 100 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped; Juice of 1 large orange (about 100 ml)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet, creamy, tangy, and chocolatey. It requires just a handful of pantry staples and no oven time, making it an excellent choice when you need an impressive dessert without the fuss. The texture is smooth and velvety, while the citrus flavor lightens every bite. It sets beautifully in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

600 ml double cream (heavy cream)
150 g caster sugar (superfine sugar)
Zest of 1 large orange
100 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
Juice of 1 large orange (about 100 ml)

Chocolate Orange Posset

Directions

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the cream, sugar, and orange zest. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for 3 minutes without stirring, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped dark chocolate until fully melted and smooth.
Stir in the orange juice until thoroughly combined. The mixture may curdle slightly—this is normal for possets and will smooth out when strained.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into ramekins or serving glasses to remove the zest and any lumps.
Let the possets cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set and chilled.
Serve chilled. Optionally garnish with extra orange zest or a small piece of chocolate before serving.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes (plus simmering and resting)
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

White chocolate version: Replace dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier take.
Add liqueur: Stir in a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier for added depth.
Citrus twist: Try lemon or lime zest and juice for a refreshing change.
Spiced version: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom during simmering.
Vegan adaptation: Use full-fat coconut cream and a vegan dark chocolate substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Store the possets in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly covered. These are not freezer-friendly, as the texture may separate. Serve straight from the fridge—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream?

No, milk won’t set properly. Double cream or heavy cream is essential for the right texture.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich, bittersweet flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making a day ahead. Just keep it chilled until serving.

Why did my posset curdle?

A little curdling is normal when adding citrus juice. Straining the mixture removes any lumps and ensures a silky texture.

How do I know when it’s set?

The posset should have a firm yet slightly jiggly texture after chilling for at least 4 hours.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and divide into additional serving glasses. Chill for the same amount of time.

What’s the best way to garnish?

Try orange zest, grated chocolate, or even candied orange peel for added texture and color.

Can I use orange extract instead of juice?

Fresh orange juice is recommended for the right acidity and natural flavor, but a small amount of extract can be used for a more concentrated flavor if needed.

Do I need to cover the possets while chilling?

It’s best to loosely cover them to prevent absorbing any fridge odors and avoid skin forming on top.

Is this dessert suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s non-alcoholic and caffeine-free if using regular dark chocolate.

Conclusion

Chocolate Orange Posset is an elegant, fuss-free dessert that delivers incredible flavor with very little effort. Its velvety texture and bright citrus notes make it the perfect finish to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy.

Chocolate Orange Posset

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A rich, silky, no-bake dessert combining dark chocolate with fresh orange zest and juice. Smooth, velvety, and perfect for make-ahead indulgence.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake
Cuisine: British/European
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

600 ml double cream (heavy cream)

150 g caster sugar (superfine sugar)

Zest of 1 large orange

100 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped

Juice of 1 large orange (about 100 ml)

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Instructions

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and orange zest. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes without stirring to thicken slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in chopped dark chocolate until smooth and fully melted.
Stir in orange juice until combined. Slight curdling is normal.
Strain through a fine mesh sieve into ramekins or serving glasses to remove zest and any lumps.
Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
Serve chilled, optionally garnished with extra orange zest or a small piece of chocolate.