Let me share with you one of my all-time favorite desserts: Lemon Posset. This creamy, tangy treat is surprisingly simple to make and always impresses. With just a few ingredients, you can create a luscious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
What makes this Lemon Posset recipe so special? First, it requires only three ingredients – heavy cream, sugar, and lemons! It’s truly a “less is more” situation. Second, it’s no-bake, meaning you don’t have to worry about turning on your oven. The texture is incredibly smooth and silky, like a luxurious lemon custard, and the bright, citrusy flavor is both refreshing and comforting. This easy Lemon Posset recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 3-4 lemons)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine Cream and Sugar
In a medium saucepan, pour in the heavy cream and add the sugar. Make sure you use heavy cream for the best, richest texture.
Step 2: Heat the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the cream and sugar constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. You’ll notice the mixture getting slightly thinner as the sugar melts.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This means small bubbles will form around the edges of the pan. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the cream thicken slightly. Be careful not to boil the mixture, as this can affect the final texture.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Now, gently stir in the fresh lemon juice. As soon as the lemon juice hits the hot cream, the mixture will begin to thicken almost immediately. Don’t worry if it looks curdled at first; just keep stirring gently.
Step 5: Pour into Serving Dishes
Pour the Lemon Posset mixture evenly into small ramekins or glasses. I like to use pretty glass bowls to make them look extra fancy.
Step 6: Chill
Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap, pressing it gently against the surface of the posset to prevent a skin from forming. Place them in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the posset to set properly and develop its signature creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Posset is wonderful served on its own as a light and refreshing dessert. Its tangy flavor also pairs beautifully with fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries. A simple garnish of lemon zest adds a pop of color and enhances the citrus aroma.
For a more elegant presentation, consider serving Lemon Posset in small stemmed glasses or layering it with crumbled shortbread cookies. It’s the perfect dessert for dinner parties, afternoon teas, or any special occasion when you want a sophisticated and easy-to-make treat. The creamy texture and bright flavor make it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Lemon Posset should be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep for up to 2-3 days. However, the texture might change slightly over time, becoming a bit firmer.
Lemon Posset is best served cold and is not suitable for reheating. Attempting to reheat it will likely cause the mixture to separate and lose its creamy consistency.
Key Details
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Chill time: 3 hours (minimum)
- Servings: 4
- Equipment: Medium saucepan, ramekins or small glasses, measuring cups and spoons
Lemon Posset
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice from about 3-4 lemons
Instructions
- Combine Cream and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, pour in the heavy cream and add the sugar.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the cream and sugar constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Simmer Gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Lemon Juice: Remove from heat and gently stir in the fresh lemon juice.
- Pour into Serving Dishes: Pour the mixture evenly into small ramekins or glasses.
- Chill: Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight.
