Lemon Posset

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Posset is the epitome of simplicity and indulgence. With only three ingredients—cream, sugar, and lemon—it comes together quickly and effortlessly. The magic happens when the cream thickens and combines with the citrusy tartness of lemon to create a rich, velvety custard-like texture. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy and will leave your taste buds dancing. Best of all, it’s an excellent make-ahead dessert, which makes it ideal for dinner parties or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 2 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional for added flavor)

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

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved and the cream is just about to come to a simmer. Do not let it boil.

2. Once the cream mixture is hot and the sugar is dissolved, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest (if using). The mixture should thicken slightly as the lemon juice reacts with the cream.

3. Let the mixture cool slightly, then pour it into serving glasses or small cups. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until fully set. For best results, allow it to chill overnight.

4. Once set, the posset will have a smooth, creamy texture. You can serve it as-is or garnish with fresh berries, a sprig of mint, or extra lemon zest for a beautiful presentation.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. The preparation time is around 10 minutes, and the chilling time is 3-4 hours or overnight.

Variations

• Fruit Variations: You can switch up the citrus by using lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty lime posset. Alternatively, try orange juice for a sweeter, milder version.

• Infused Posset: For a twist on the classic, try infusing the cream with flavors like vanilla, lavender, or ginger by heating the cream with the flavorings before adding the sugar. Strain the mixture before adding lemon juice.

• Serving Suggestions: Serve your lemon posset in small cups or jars. Top it with fresh fruit like berries, or even candied ginger for a flavorful crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Lemon Posset in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, as the creamy texture may change upon thawing. This dessert is best served chilled and fresh. Reheating is not necessary as the posset should be served cold, and reheating could compromise the texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

For best results, it’s recommended to use heavy cream since it provides the rich, creamy texture. Using half-and-half will result in a lighter posset but may not set as firmly.

2. Can I make Lemon Posset without lemon zest?

Yes, you can skip the zest if you prefer a simpler flavor, though the zest adds an extra layer of lemony aroma. You can also try other citrus zest for a unique twist.

3. How can I make this dessert more decadent?

To add a richer flavor, you can use flavored extracts, such as vanilla or almond, or top the posset with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream.

4. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is ideal for the best flavor and texture, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work too. However, the taste may be slightly different.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled or halved depending on your needs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you increase the amount.

6. Can I add a crust to this dessert?

Lemon Posset is traditionally served without a crust, but you can serve it in individual tart shells or with a crumbled biscuit base if you prefer.

7. Is Lemon Posset a good make-ahead dessert?

Yes! Lemon Posset actually benefits from being made ahead of time. Chilling it for several hours (or overnight) helps it set perfectly, making it an excellent choice for preparing in advance.

8. Can I use another sweetener besides granulated sugar?

Yes, you can experiment with other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but note that it might slightly alter the flavor and texture of the posset.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

10. How do I know when my Lemon Posset is set?

Once the posset has chilled for 3-4 hours or overnight, it should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when scooped or spooned.

Conclusion

Lemon Posset is a simple yet luxurious dessert that combines the richness of cream with the bright, refreshing taste of lemon. Its velvety smooth texture and tangy flavor make it the perfect finish to any meal, and it requires minimal ingredients and effort to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet, this dessert is sure to impress with its delicate balance of flavors.