Lemon Posset
When I first discovered the beauty of Lemon Posset, it was like stumbling upon a hidden gem in the world of desserts. Just three simple ingredients come together to create a delicate treat that’s light yet rich, tangy yet sweet. I remember the first time I made it; the kitchen filled with the scent of freshly squeezed lemons, and I couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement. It was a warm spring day, perfect for enjoying something refreshing. I decided to whip up this elegant dessert for a gathering, and to my surprise, it stole the show! Friends were amazed at how such a delightful dessert could come from just a few pantry staples. The creamy texture combined with the bright citrus flavor is simply irresistible, making it a perfect ending to any meal.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
8 mins
7 mins
Easy
250 kcal
2 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
22 g
Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Frying Pan
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Posset
1. Simplicity at Its Best
The beauty of Lemon Posset lies in its simplicity. With just three key ingredients—heavy whipping cream, granulated sugar, and lemon juice—you can create a dessert that feels indulgent without the fuss. It’s a wonderful way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. The Perfect Balance of Flavors
This dessert strikes an exquisite balance between sweetness and acidity. The lemon juice cuts through the richness of the cream, providing a refreshing contrast that leaves your palate cleansed and craving more. Each bite feels like a taste of sunshine.
3. Versatile Serving Options
Another reason to love Lemon Posset is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. Whether you choose to present it in elegant ramekins or use lemon halves as shells, the visual appeal is stunning. You can also dress it up with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.
4. Make-Ahead Convenience
One of my favorite things about this dessert is that it can be made ahead of time. Once it’s set in the refrigerator, you can focus on other meal preparations, knowing that a delightful dessert awaits. This makes it a perfect choice for dinner parties or special occasions.
5. A Nostalgic Touch
Eating Lemon Posset brings back memories of my childhood, sitting in my grandmother’s kitchen as she shared her favorite recipes. This dessert carries a sense of nostalgia that connects us to our roots and traditions, making it even more special. It’s a chance to share these memories with family and friends.
6. A Refreshing End to Any Meal
With its light texture, Lemon Posset is the ideal way to finish off a hearty meal. Its refreshing taste cleanses the palate and leaves you feeling satisfied but not overly full. It’s the perfect conclusion to a dinner party or a weekend family meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Posset
The ingredients for Lemon Posset are simple yet effective. Each plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of creamy texture and tart flavor. The star of the show is undoubtedly the heavy whipping cream, which adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel. The granulated sugar balances the tang of the lemon juice, making it a harmonious dessert that’s sure to please.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream – The backbone of this dessert, it provides a rich and creamy texture that makes Lemon Posset what it is.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar – This sweetener perfectly balances the tartness of the lemons, ensuring that the dessert isn’t too sour.
- 5 tablespoons lemon juice, from about 3 lemons – Freshly squeezed juice is essential for that bright, zesty flavor. This is what truly elevates the dessert.
- Lemon slice or berries – Optional for serving, these garnishes add a pop of color and an extra zing to each serving.
Step by Step Instructions for Lemon Posset
Making Lemon Posset is a straightforward process that requires just a few simple steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you every step of the way.
Boil: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring gently to dissolve the sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to bubble for about five minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see small bubbles forming, and the aroma of warm cream fills the air.
Add lemon: Once the mixture has boiled, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and mix well. It’s important to let the mixture cool for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld nicely.
Strain: Next, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup with a pouring lip. This will ensure a silky texture without any lumps. Take your time with this step, as it’s crucial for achieving that smooth finish.
Fill: Now it’s time to fill your serving cups! Divide the strained mixture evenly between six ramekins or lemon halves if you’re feeling adventurous. Aim to fill them about three-quarters full to allow room for setting.
Refrigerate: Place the filled ramekins in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least two hours. This is where the magic happens—the Lemon Posset will set beautifully, becoming firm yet creamy.
Garnish: Just before serving, consider topping each ramekin with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of lemon or a few fresh berries for visual appeal and added flavor. This final touch makes the dessert look even more inviting!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use heavy cream: For a successful Lemon Posset, ensure you’re using heavy cream with at least 36% fat content. This is crucial for the dessert to set properly.
- Fresh lemon juice is key: Opt for fresh lemon juice instead of bottled. The flavor difference is noticeable and will elevate your dessert.
- Chill adequately: Make sure to allow enough time for the Lemon Posset to chill and set in the refrigerator. Patience pays off!
- Experiment with flavors: Consider infusing your Lemon Posset with herbs like thyme or mint for a unique twist.
Variations to Try
One of the great things about Lemon Posset is its versatility. Here are some fun variations and tips to enhance your dessert experience:
- Flavor Infusions: Consider adding flavors like vanilla or lavender to the cream mixture for a delightful twist.
- Fruit Pairings: Serve with a side of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for added texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to three days for optimal freshness.
- Freezing: You can freeze Lemon Posset for up to a month, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the creamiest texture.
- Make-ahead: Prepare this dessert a day in advance to save time and impress your guests with a stunning finish to your meal.
Serve This Lemon Posset With
When it comes to serving Lemon Posset, the options are endless. Here are some delightful ideas:
- Complement with a light salad: Pairing it with a refreshing salad makes for a well-rounded meal.
- Perfect for spring gatherings: Its bright flavors make it an ideal dessert for spring or summer parties.
- Ideal for special occasions: Serve it at birthdays, weddings, or any celebration where you want to impress.
- Seasonal pairings: Enjoy with fresh seasonal fruits for a fresh and vibrant dessert experience.
- Make a simple plate: A slice of cake or a biscuit on the side can create a delightful contrast.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Lemon Posset is a simple yet elegant dessert that anyone can make at home. Its creamy texture and refreshing flavor make it a favorite among all ages. I encourage you to try making this delightful treat yourself; you won’t be disappointed! Create memories with each spoonful and impress your family and friends with this timeless dessert.
Lemon Posset
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, combine the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring gently to dissolve the sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to bubble for about five minutes.
- Once the mixture has boiled, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and mix well. It’s important to let the mixture cool for about 15 minutes.
- Next, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup with a pouring lip. This will ensure a silky texture without any lumps.
- Divide the strained mixture evenly between six ramekins or lemon halves if you’re feeling adventurous. Aim to fill them about three-quarters full.
- Place the filled ramekins in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least two hours. This is where the magic happens—the Lemon Posset will set beautifully.
- Just before serving, consider topping each ramekin with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of lemon or a few fresh berries for visual appeal and added flavor.
Notes
- Use HEAVY cream: A lighter cream won’t have the fat content to set up properly.
- Use real lemon juice: Not concentrate.
- How to Make Lemon Cups: Cut 5 to 6 lemons in half lengthwise and spoon out the inside juice and membrane.
- Make-ahead & Storage: Cover with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
