If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both incredibly simple and luxuriously delicious, you’ve hit the jackpot with The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe. This classic British treat is a divine creamy citrus dessert that comes together with just a handful of ingredients, yet it never fails to impress. Silky smooth, tangy, and lightly sweet, it’s the perfect sweet finish that’s as refreshing as it is rich. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become one of your go-to easy lemon desserts to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building that perfect texture and bright lemon flavor without any fuss.
- 2 cups heavy cream: This gives the posset its signature creamy, silky texture that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tart lemon juice and enrich the cream.
- 5 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: The key to that bright, fresh citrus zing that wakes up your palate; always use fresh for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (optional): For an extra burst of lemon aroma and a hint of texture, this little addition elevates the posset wonderfully.
- Fresh berries or mint leaves for garnish (optional): Adds a pretty, fresh finish and a pop of color to brighten your presentation.
How to Make The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Cream and Sugar
Start by combining the heavy cream and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan. Place it over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar has fully dissolved and the mixture just begins to boil gently. Keeping an eye on it here is key because you want that sugar melted smooth but avoid burning the cream. This step creates the luscious base that will set into the perfect creamy texture.
Step 2: Boil Gently for 3 Minutes
Once it reaches a gentle boil, maintain that low simmer for three minutes while stirring frequently. This allows the cream and sugar to thicken slightly and develop a subtly caramelized undertone. Stirring often ensures your posset remains silky with no scorching, setting you up for a flawless final result.
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice and Zest
Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in your freshly squeezed lemon juice along with the lemon zest if you’re using it. The acid from the lemon juice instantly interacts with the hot cream mixture, thickening it perfectly. This is the heart of what makes The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe so special—it’s simple chemistry creating creamy magic right before your eyes.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes, then carefully pour it into small serving glasses or ramekins. Pop them into the refrigerator for at least four hours to allow the posset to set into that luscious, delicate pudding consistency. Patience here is rewarded with a dessert that’s silky smooth and perfectly tangy.
How to Serve The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe
Garnishes
While the posset is delicious on its own, a sprinkle of fresh berries or a few mint leaves adds a lovely burst of color and freshness. Raspberries, blueberries, or even a thin twist of lemon peel can elevate the presentation and complement the creamy lemon flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
The creamy tartness of The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe pairs exquisitely with light accompaniments like crisp biscuits, shortbread cookies, or a simple almond tuile. These sides add a crunchy contrast that balances the soft, velvety texture of the posset perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, try serving the posset in elegant small jars or vintage tea cups to impress guests. Layer with a thin drizzle of berry compote or crushed candied nuts for texture play. You can also top with edible flowers for a whimsical touch that’s perfect for special occasions or afternoon tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe actually benefits from some advance planning. Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully, and it stays silky smooth and delicious—just give it a gentle stir before serving if needed.
Freezing
While this posset is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture, making it grainy when thawed. For the best results, keep it chilled and consume within a few days.
Reheating
Because this dessert is meant to be served cold, reheating is not advised. Just allow it to come to a slightly warmer temperature at room temperature for a few minutes if it feels too firm after refrigeration—this helps soften the posset without losing its silky charm.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
For The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe, fresh lemon juice is definitely the way to go. It provides the bright, natural acidity that bottled juice often lacks, ensuring your posset sets perfectly and tastes vibrant.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! The base ingredients of The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe contain no gluten, making it a naturally gluten-free dessert. Just watch any garnishes or side accompaniments if you are serving guests with gluten sensitivities.
How long does it take for the posset to set?
The posset needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to fully set into that creamy, pudding-like texture. Ideally, making it a day ahead gives it the best consistency and flavor.
Can I substitute lime or orange juice for lemon?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with lemon, substituting lime or orange juice creates a lovely citrus variation. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the perfect balance of creaminess and tartness.
What’s the best way to serve lemon posset at a party?
Serving The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe in small clear glasses or pretty ramekins looks elegant and makes it easy for guests to enjoy. Garnish with fresh berries or mint and provide a crisp cookie on the side for a delightful presentation.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe yet, you are truly missing out on one of the easiest and most rewarding desserts you can make. It’s a perfect combination of creamy and zesty that feels special but requires minimal effort. Whether you’re entertaining friends or craving a quick homemade treat, this lemon posset is guaranteed to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Give it a go—you won’t regret adding this British classic to your dessert repertoire!
Print
The Famous Lemon Posset Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
The Famous Lemon Posset is a classic British dessert that combines the rich creaminess of heavy cream with the bright, tangy freshness of lemon juice. This easy-to-make, no-bake dessert sets perfectly into a silky smooth custard with minimal ingredients, making it an ideal treat for elegant occasions or simple family dinners. Its luscious texture and vibrant citrus flavor are delightfully refreshing, and garnishing with fresh berries or mint adds a lovely visual and taste contrast.
Ingredients
Posset Mixture
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (optional, for extra lemon flavor)
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh berries
- Mint leaves
Instructions
- Combine Cream and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, pour the heavy cream and add the granulated sugar. Place over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Boil Gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from scorching on the bottom of the pan.
- Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and, if using, the finely grated lemon zest. The mixture will begin to thicken slightly.
- Cool the Mixture: Allow the lemon cream mixture to cool for about 5 minutes at room temperature to reduce heat.
- Pour into Serving Dishes: Carefully pour the cooled mixture into 4 to 6 small serving glasses or ramekins for individual portions.
- Chill Until Set: Refrigerate the filled glasses for at least 4 hours, or until the lemon posset is fully set and has a silky, custard-like consistency.
- Serve: Serve the lemon posset chilled, optionally garnished with fresh berries or mint leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, prepare the lemon posset a day ahead to allow it to set beautifully.
- Try a flavor variation by substituting lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a different citrus twist.
- Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice; bottled juice does not give the same texture or fresh flavor.
