Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lemon Posset is a wonderfully easy and indulgent dessert that doesn’t require fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. The combination of rich cream and fresh lemon juice creates a luscious, silky texture that is both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s a no-bake recipe that you can prepare in advance, making it an excellent option when you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet. Whether you’re serving it after a hearty meal or enjoying it as a light treat, this dessert is sure to impress with its simplicity and flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 5 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Optional: lemon zest, for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Combine Cream and Sugar: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Boil the Mixture: Let the mixture boil for 3 minutes, ensuring it does not overboil or curdle. Stir occasionally.
- Add Lemon Juice: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Mix well until fully combined.
- Cool the Mixture: Allow the mixture to cool for 5–10 minutes, giving it time to thicken slightly.
- Pour and Chill: Pour the lemon mixture into serving glasses or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the posset is fully set.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Variations
- Add Fruit: Top the posset with fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Infuse with Herbs: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the cream while it’s heating for a subtle herbal note.
- Flavored Zest: Experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or orange zest for a unique twist on the traditional lemon flavor.
- Shortbread Crust: For added texture, serve the posset over a crumbled shortbread crust or alongside shortbread cookies.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Lemon Posset can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply cover the glasses or ramekins with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
- Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled and does not need reheating. If you prefer a softer texture, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different sweetener instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can use alternatives such as honey, agave syrup, or powdered sugar. Just adjust the quantity to your taste.
2. Can I make Lemon Posset with dairy-free cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan version of this dessert.
3. How do I know when the posset is set?
The posset should have a creamy, custard-like consistency. After chilling for several hours, it will firm up and hold its shape when served.
4. Can I freeze Lemon Posset?
It’s not recommended to freeze Lemon Posset, as the texture may change after thawing. It’s best served fresh after chilling.
5. How can I add more lemon flavor to the posset?
If you want a stronger lemon flavor, you can increase the amount of lemon juice or add a bit of lemon zest into the cream mixture while it’s boiling.
6. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice may not provide the same fresh, vibrant taste.
7. Can I make this dessert the night before?
Yes! Lemon Posset is actually best when made a day ahead, as the flavors have time to develop, and it sets perfectly overnight.
8. What can I serve with Lemon Posset?
This dessert pairs wonderfully with shortbread cookies, fresh berries, or a light fruit salad.
9. Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to serve more guests. Just make sure to use larger containers for chilling.
10. Can I make Lemon Posset in a large serving dish?
Yes, you can make it in a larger bowl and serve it family-style, but be sure to chill it for the same amount of time.
Conclusion
Lemon Posset is the epitome of simple elegance, with its rich, creamy texture and refreshing citrus flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a dinner party, a special occasion, or simply as a treat for yourself, this no-bake dessert is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd favorite. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that tastes and looks as though it came from a five-star restaurant.
Lemon Posset Recipe
Lemon Posset is a rich, creamy British dessert made with heavy cream, sugar, and fresh lemon juice. This no-bake treat offers a velvety texture and refreshing citrus flavor, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
5 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
Optional: lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Let the mixture boil for 3 minutes, ensuring it does not overboil or curdle. Stir occasionally.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Mix well until fully combined.
- Allow the mixture to cool for 5–10 minutes, giving it time to thicken slightly.
- Pour the lemon mixture into serving glasses or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the posset is fully set.
- Before serving, garnish with lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor, if desired.
Notes
Lemon Posset can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cover the glasses or ramekins with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
This dessert is best served chilled. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer a softer texture.
If you want to enhance the lemon flavor, you can increase the lemon juice or add lemon zest into the cream mixture while it’s boiling.
This dessert is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with coconut or cashew cream for a vegan version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
