If you are looking for a dessert that is silky, indulgent, and bursting with bright citrus flavor, this Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe is an absolute must-try. Possets are classic British creamy desserts that have a wonderfully smooth texture thanks to the heavy cream base, and when combined with dark chocolate and fresh orange, they become a heavenly treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re impressing guests or just craving something special, this dessert balances rich chocolate with zesty orange in a way that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

2 cups heavy cream in a small clear glass pitcher with smooth, glossy surface; 5 oz dark chocolate chunks with deep, rich brown color and slightly rough texture arranged in a small rustic wooden bowl; 1/3 cup granulated sugar sparkling in a small white ceramic bowl with fine crystals catching light; 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest with vibrant bright orange curls scattered artfully on a wooden spoon; 1/4 cup fresh orange juice in a small glass container showing bright, translucent orange liquid; a small pinch of coarse sea salt with white crystalline texture displayed on a tiny porcelain dish. Ingredients arranged neatly in a balanced circle on a clean, light natural wood surface with soft natural lighting highlighting the colors and textures. Minimal shadows, warm tones, and subtle reflections enhance freshness and richness. Overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe calls for just a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each play a key role in the final flavor and texture. From the creamy richness of heavy cream to the bright punch of fresh orange juice and zest, every component is chosen for maximum taste and smoothness.

2 cups heavy cream: This is the base of the posset, giving it its signature silky and creamy texture.
5 oz dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa), chopped: Adds deep, rich cocoa flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus.
1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dessert just enough to balance the dark chocolate and tartness from the orange.
1 tablespoon fresh orange zest: Brings a lively, aromatic citrus note that brightens the flavor.
1/4 cup fresh orange juice: Adds fresh acidity and juicy orange essence to complement the chocolate.
Pinch of sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps to round out the sweetness.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe

Step 1: Simmer the Cream and Sugar

Start by combining the heavy cream and sugar in a medium saucepan. Gently bring it to a simmer over medium heat while stirring regularly to make sure the sugar dissolves fully. This process not only sweetens the cream but also gently thickens it to create the perfect base for our posset.

Step 2: Infuse with Orange Zest

Once the cream mixture is simmering, stir in the fresh orange zest and let it simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the oils from the zest to infuse into the cream, giving the dish that unmistakable fresh orange aroma and flavor that makes this dessert so special.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Remove the pan from the heat. Immediately add the chopped dark chocolate to the hot cream mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until the chocolate has melted completely and the mixture is smooth and glossy. This delicate step ensures a velvety consistency and that the chocolate flavor is beautifully rich.

Step 4: Add Orange Juice and Sea Salt

Next, stir in the fresh orange juice and a pinch of sea salt until everything is fully combined. The orange juice brightens the dessert with fresh citrus zing while the salt subtly amplifies all the flavors, balancing sweetness and bitterness perfectly.

Step 5: Strain the Mixture

Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl or pitcher. This removes any bits of zest or undissolved solids, giving your posset that signature smooth, silky texture that makes every spoonful luxurious.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Divide the posset mixture evenly among ramekins, glasses, or jars. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow it to set fully. Patience here pays off, as the chilled posset firms slightly while remaining wonderfully creamy.

Step 7: Optional Toppings Before Serving

Just before serving, you can take your Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe to the next level by adding a dollop of whipped cream, some delicate chocolate shavings, or even a thin slice of candied orange for that extra touch of elegance and texture contrast.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes are where you can really personalize this dessert. Freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich posset. Chocolate shavings introduce texture and reinforce the chocolate flavor, while candied orange slices bring a delightful chewiness and even more citrus charm. These simple additions elevate presentation and taste alike.

Side Dishes

This posset pairs wonderfully with crisp biscotti or shortbread cookies for a textural dance. A small serving of fresh berries, such as raspberries or blood oranges, can add a fresh tang that cuts through the richness. For a more indulgent pairing, a glass of dessert wine like a tawny port enhances this chocolate orange combination beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving your Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe in clear glasses or vintage jars shows off the dessert’s rich color and creamy consistency. You might layer it with crushed biscotti or a thin cookie base for a posset parfait. Miniature spoons and elegant ramekins make for a charming party presentation that will wow your guests before they even taste it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chocolate Orange Posset keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the containers tightly to prevent the dessert from absorbing any other fridge odors and to maintain its smooth texture.

Freezing

Although possets have a delicate texture that can alter after freezing, you can freeze them if necessary. Place them in airtight containers and thaw gently in the refrigerator before serving. The texture might be slightly less creamy, but the flavors remain delightful.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended as it may cause the posset to lose its delicate set and creamy texture. If you prefer a warmer dessert, try gently warming a chocolate sauce to drizzle over the cold posset instead.

FAQs

What is a posset?

A posset is a traditional British dessert made from cream, sugar, and an acid like citrus juice, which thickens the cream into a silky, custard-like texture without eggs. This Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe combines these basics with chocolate for a decadent twist.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

For the rich and creamy texture characteristic of a posset, heavy cream is essential. Milk is too thin and will not set properly, so it’s best to stick with heavy cream for this recipe.

Is dark chocolate necessary, or can I use milk chocolate?

Using dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa balances well with the orange’s acidity and prevents the dessert from becoming overly sweet. Milk chocolate can be used if you prefer it sweeter, but it will create a less intense chocolate flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

This classic Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe relies heavily on dairy cream, which is crucial for its silky texture. However, some experiment with coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate can yield a vegan-friendly alternative, though it may alter texture and flavor.

How long does the posset need to set in the fridge?

For the best texture and flavor development, refrigerate the posset for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal. This allows it to fully firm up while remaining beautifully creamy.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about this Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe that makes it a standout dessert in any repertoire. Its simplicity, elegance, and the harmony between rich chocolate and bright orange make it an absolute joy to prepare and eat. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to desserts for celebrations or an everyday indulgence.

Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 44 reviews

Author: Kimberly
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes plus 4 hours chilling time
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: British

Print Recipe

Description

Chocolate Orange Posset is a smooth, creamy, and luscious dessert perfect for any occasion. This no-bake treat combines rich dark chocolate with fresh orange zest and juice for a refreshing citrus twist. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it sets into a silky pudding-like texture that melts in your mouth, offering a decadent yet easy-to-make indulgence.

Ingredients

Posset Base

2 cups heavy cream
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
pinch sea salt

Chocolate

5 oz dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa), chopped

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Instructions

Heat Cream and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to fully dissolve the sugar and prevent scorching.
Infuse Orange Zest: Stir in the fresh orange zest and let the cream simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to release the citrus aroma and infuse the flavor into the cream.
Melt the Chocolate: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the chopped dark chocolate to the hot cream mixture, stirring continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
Add Orange Juice and Salt: Stir in the fresh orange juice and a pinch of sea salt, ensuring everything is well combined for balanced flavor and a slight tang.
Strain the Mixture: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl or pitcher to remove the zest and any solids, resulting in a silky smooth texture.
Chill to Set: Pour the strained posset mixture into individual ramekins, glasses, or jars. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the posset to set into a firm but creamy consistency.
Optional Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally top each posset with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a thin slice of candied orange to enhance presentation and add extra flavor dimensions.

Notes

Be sure to simmer the cream gently to prevent it from boiling over or burning.
Using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa enhances the dessert’s richness.
Freshly grated orange zest and juice provide the best citrus flavor—avoid bottled juice for optimal freshness.
Straining the mixture is key to a silky smooth texture without any zest bits.
The posset thickens as it chills; do not disturb it while setting.
Can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.