If you’re craving a dessert that’s refreshingly simple yet decadently creamy, this Lemon Posset Recipe is an absolute must-try. Hailing from British cuisine, lemon posset is a luscious, silky pudding that magically sets without any gelatin or eggs, thanks to the tangy power of fresh lemon juice. It’s wonderfully rich but bright, offering a perfect balance of zesty citrus and velvety sweetness that will leave you reaching for seconds. Whether you’re looking for an impressive but easy dessert to serve at your next dinner party or a sweet treat to soothe your soul, this Lemon Posset Recipe will quickly become your go-to indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Posset Recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring just a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together to create pure magic. Each element plays a crucial role in developing the dessert’s texture and vibrant flavor.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Provides the rich, creamy base that sets beautifully without additional thickeners.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream perfectly, balancing the tartness of the lemon.
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice: The star ingredient that curdles the cream and delivers that unmistakable bright, citrus punch.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional): Adds an extra layer of aromatic lemon freshness and color.
- Fresh berries and mint for serving (optional): These add a pop of color and a refreshing finish that complements the creamy dessert.
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. Place it over medium heat and stir frequently to dissolve the sugar completely. This step is important to ensure your posset ends up smooth and luscious without any grainy texture from undissolved sugar.
Step 2: Bring to a Gentle Boil and Simmer
Once the sugar has dissolved, raise the heat just enough to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then lower the heat slightly and let it simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering thickens the cream, preparing it for the magic that comes next.
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice and Zest
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and optional lemon zest. The acidity from the lemon juice will interact with the cream, causing it to gently thicken and develop its characteristic silky texture.
Step 4: Let It Cool
Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps it cool slightly and begin to set before you pour it into serving dishes.
Step 5: Chill Until Set
Divide the mixture evenly among small serving glasses or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the posset is fully set and has a creamy, pudding-like consistency. Patience here really pays off!
How to Serve Lemon Posset Recipe
Garnishes
While the posset itself is a showstopper, a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate it to gourmet status. Try topping it with fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a burst of color and subtle tartness. A sprig of fresh mint adds a lovely, aromatic contrast that brightens each spoonful.
Side Dishes
Lemon posset is a wonderful dessert to finish a meal, but pairing it thoughtfully can create a complete dining experience. Light biscuits or shortbread cookies are perfect for dipping into the creamy pudding. Alternatively, serve it alongside a simple fruit salad or a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests with your presentation, try layering the posset with crushed biscuits or granola in clear glasses to create a parfait effect. Another fun idea is to pipe the posset into mini tart shells and garnish with candied lemon peel or edible flowers for an elegant touch that’s sure to wow.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Lemon posset keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and avoid any absorption of odors from other foods.
Freezing
Because of its delicate texture, freezing lemon posset is not recommended. Freezing can cause the cream to separate and the smooth consistency to become grainy upon thawing.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge. Reheating is not advised, as it will disrupt the silky texture that makes this lemon posset so special.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is best for this recipe because it contains the right acidity and fresh citrus flavor needed to properly set the posset. Bottled lemon juice might work but could alter the taste and texture slightly.
Is lemon zest necessary for the Lemon Posset Recipe?
The lemon zest is optional but highly recommended. It adds fragrance and a hint of bitterness that complements the sweetness, making the dessert more complex and vibrant.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free or vegan?
This classic Lemon Posset Recipe relies on heavy cream for its texture, so making a truly dairy-free or vegan version would require significant modifications, such as using coconut cream and a setting agent, which won’t yield the same traditional result.
How long does it take for lemon posset to set?
Typically, lemon posset needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to fully set and develop its creamy, pudding-like texture, though chilling it overnight will improve the firmness and flavor further.
Can I double the Lemon Posset Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales up well, just be sure to use a larger saucepan and maintain the simmering time to ensure the mixture thickens properly.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Posset Recipe is one of those delightful desserts that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier to make. Its creamy, tangy nature is incredibly satisfying and brightens up any meal with a touch of elegance. I hope you give this simple yet sensational treat a try and enjoy every luscious spoonful as much as I do!
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Lemon Posset Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus at least 4 hours chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Posset is a classic British dessert that is rich, creamy, and tangy, made with just three main ingredients: heavy cream, sugar, and fresh lemon juice. This no-bake pudding sets thanks to the acidity of the lemon juice, resulting in a smooth and velvety texture perfect for a refreshing treat. It can be prepared ahead of time and served chilled, optionally garnished with fresh berries and mint for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Posset Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
For Serving (optional)
- Fresh berries
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Combine Cream and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, pour in the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir frequently until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture reaches a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Mixture: Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and allow the cream mixture to simmer gently for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and to ensure a smooth texture.
- Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the fresh lemon juice and optional lemon zest. This will cause the mixture to begin thickening due to the lemon’s acidity.
- Cool Slightly: Let the mixture rest for about 10 minutes off the heat to cool down and start to set.
- Set in Serving Dishes: Pour the thickened lemon posset evenly into small serving glasses or ramekins.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the posset is fully set and has a creamy, pudding-like consistency.
- Serve: When ready to serve, garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves if desired for a beautiful and flavorful presentation.
Notes
- Lemon posset sets naturally without gelatin or eggs because of the lemon juice’s acidity.
- You can prepare it a day in advance, making it convenient for entertaining or ahead-of-time dessert planning.
- If lemon zest is not preferred, it can be omitted without affecting the texture; the zest enhances the lemon aroma.
- Ensure gentle boiling to avoid curdling the cream.
