Lemon Posset Recipe

Introduction

Lemon posset is a silky, tangy British dessert that’s incredibly simple to make with just a few ingredients. Its creamy texture and bright lemon flavor make it a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream*
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tablespoons lemon juice (from about 3 lemons*)
• Lemon slice or berries (optional for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small saucepan, heat the cream and sugar together, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a medium boil for 5 minutes, being careful it does not boil over.
2. Step 2: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Set aside to cool for 15 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup with a pouring lip to remove any solids.
3. Step 3: Divide the strained mixture evenly between 6 ramekins or 10–12 lemon halves if you prefer to serve the posset in lemon shells. Fill each about three-quarters full to allow it to set properly.
4. Step 4: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set. Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with a lemon slice or berries if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor and avoid bottled lemon juice for a brighter taste.
• For a richer dessert, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream mixture before boiling.
• If you like a sweeter posset, increase the sugar by 1–2 tablespoons according to your preference.

Storage

Store lemon posset covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed chilled. If the texture thickens too much after storage, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving or gently reheat briefly over low heat while stirring.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make lemon posset ahead of time?

Yes, lemon posset can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to serve. This makes it a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Heavy cream is essential for the rich, creamy texture of posset. Using lighter creams or milk will not achieve the same thickness or mouthfeel.

Lemon Posset Recipe

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4.5 from 120 reviews

Lemon Posset is a classic British dessert known for its creamy, silky texture and bright lemon flavor. Made with just three simple ingredients—cream, sugar, and lemon juice—this no-bake treat is easy to prepare and perfect for a refreshing, elegant dessert. The rich cream is boiled with sugar, then combined with tangy lemon juice and chilled until set, resulting in a luscious, velvety custard that melts in your mouth. Garnish with fresh lemon slices or berries for a beautiful presentation.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: British
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Posset Mixture

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 5 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)

For Serving (Optional)

• Lemon slices or fresh berries
• Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Boil: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Stir continuously over medium heat to dissolve the sugar completely. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly to maintain a steady medium boil. Let it boil gently for 5 minutes, careful not to let it boil over.
2. Add lemon: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice thoroughly. Set the mixture aside to cool for 15 minutes. Then strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to catch any solids and ensure a smooth texture.
3. Fill: Pour the strained lemon posset mixture evenly into 6 ramekins or into 10-12 hollowed-out lemon halves if you prefer an elegant presentation. Fill each container about three-quarters full to allow the posset to set properly.
4. Refrigerate: Place the filled ramekins or lemon halves in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, or until the posset is fully set and has a firm but creamy consistency.
5. Serve: Just before serving, top each posset with a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Garnish with a lemon slice or fresh berries for a vibrant, attractive finish.

Notes

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and to ensure the posset sets properly due to the acidity.
• Heavy cream is essential for the creamy texture; do not substitute with lighter creams.
• Straining the mixture removes any curdled bits and ensures a smooth, silky finish.
• You can prepare the posset mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it for convenience.
• Serve chilled for the best texture and taste.

Keywords: Lemon posset, easy lemon dessert, creamy lemon custard, British desserts, no-bake desserts, lemon cream pudding