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Lemon Posset Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

Lemon Posset is a classic British dessert that combines rich, creamy whipped cream with fresh lemon juice for a tangy and luscious treat. This no-fuss recipe uses just a few simple ingredients and requires minimal preparation, resulting in a smooth, velvety custard-like dessert set perfectly in the refrigerator. Ideal for summer gatherings or elegant dinner parties, it can be served in ramekins or creatively in lemon halves, garnished with fresh berries or lemon slices for a refreshing finish.

Ingredients

Posset Base

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 5 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 3 lemons)

Optional Garnishes

  • Lemon slices
  • Fresh berries

Instructions

  1. Boil: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly to maintain a medium boil and let it continue boiling for 5 minutes, ensuring it doesn't boil over.
  2. Add Lemon: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cool and rest for 15 minutes. Then strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl with a pouring lip to remove any curdled bits and ensure a smooth consistency.
  3. Fill: Pour the strained mixture evenly into six ramekins or alternatively into 10 to 12 hollowed lemon halves if you prefer a creative presentation. Fill each container about three-quarters full to allow the posset to set properly.
  4. Refrigerate: Place the filled ramekins or lemon halves in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the posset is fully set and firm to the touch.
  5. Serve: Before serving, optionally top each posset with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a thin lemon slice or fresh berries for added color and flavor contrast.

Notes

  • Using freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for the best flavor and proper setting.
  • Be sure to keep a close eye on the cream as it boils to prevent it from boiling over.
  • Chilling for at least 2 hours is crucial to achieve the signature velvety texture.
  • Lemon halves used as serving vessels add a charming and elegant touch to the presentation.
  • For a lighter version, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but it may affect sweetness and texture.