Lemon Posset Recipe: A Simple, Creamy British Dessert

Lemon Posset is a classic British dessert that dates back hundreds of years. Known for its creamy texture and bright citrus flavor, this dessert is incredibly simple to make with just a few ingredients. Its charm lies in its smooth, silky consistency and the fresh tang of lemon, which balances the richness of the cream. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert for guests or a treat to enjoy after dinner, lemon posset fits perfectly.

What Is Lemon Posset?

Lemon posset is a traditional British dessert made from cream, sugar, and lemon juice. Unlike custards or puddings that require eggs or gelatin, posset thickens naturally when the cream is heated and combined with the acidity of lemon juice. This process gives it a delicate, creamy texture that sets when chilled, making it a fuss-free and elegant dessert.

Ingredients You Need

The ingredient list for lemon posset is short and straightforward. You only need three main ingredients:

• Heavy cream (or double cream)
• Granulated sugar
• Fresh lemon juice

Using fresh lemon juice is essential for the best flavor and natural acidity. Some recipes may include lemon zest or vanilla for added aroma, but the classic posset keeps it simple. Quality cream makes a big difference in the richness and mouthfeel of the dessert.

How To Make Lemon Posset

Making lemon posset is quick and requires minimal kitchen skills. Here is a basic step-by-step process:

1. Pour the heavy cream and sugar into a saucepan.
2. Heat gently on medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 3 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
5. Let the mixture cool slightly before pouring it into serving glasses or ramekins.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until it sets.

The acidity in the lemon juice causes the cream to thicken naturally as it cools. The result is a rich yet light dessert with a smooth texture.

Tips For The Best Lemon Posset

• Use high-quality cream with at least 35% fat content. This helps achieve a silky finish.
• Don’t overheat the cream; a gentle boil is enough to dissolve sugar and prepare the mixture.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key. Bottled lemon juice often lacks the brightness needed.
• If you want a more intense lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest.
• For presentation, serve posset in small glasses topped with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a thin lemon slice.

Variations To Try

Lemon posset can be adapted with flavors beyond lemon while keeping the same creamy base:

• Berry Posset: Add mashed fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to the cream before chilling.
• Lavender Posset: Infuse the cream with dried lavender buds while heating, then strain before adding lemon juice.
• Orange Posset: Substitute lemon juice with fresh orange juice for a sweeter twist.
• Ginger Posset: Add freshly grated ginger to the cream while heating for a spicy kick.

These variations add new dimensions to the traditional recipe while keeping the dessert easy to make.

Why Lemon Posset Is A Great Dessert Choice

Lemon posset stands out because it is quick to prepare yet feels special. It doesn’t require baking or complicated steps, so even beginners can create a delicious treat. Its smooth, creamy texture contrasts nicely with the tart lemon, making it refreshing without being heavy.

The dessert is also very versatile. It can be served as a light finish to a heavy meal or as a part of a fancy dinner party. Because it sets in the fridge, it’s easy to make ahead of time and keeps well for a day or two.

Nutritional Insight

While lemon posset is rich and creamy, it uses simple ingredients without artificial thickeners or stabilizers. One serving typically contains around 250 to 300 calories depending on portion size. The fat content comes mainly from the cream, so portion control is important if you’re watching calories.

Lemon juice adds vitamin C and a fresh zing without extra calories. Since the dessert is naturally gluten-free and egg-free, it suits people with certain dietary restrictions.

How To Store Lemon Posset

Store lemon posset covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It should be eaten within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and texture. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change and become grainy once thawed.

Before serving, you can add fresh toppings like berries or crushed nuts for a little crunch and color contrast.

Conclusion

Lemon posset is a delightful, no-fuss dessert that anyone can make with ease. Its creamy, tangy flavor combination makes it a timeless favorite in British cuisine. The recipe’s simplicity, combined with its elegant appearance and refreshing taste, makes it perfect for all kinds of occasions. Whether for a casual treat or a special event, lemon posset delivers satisfaction in every spoonful.