Lemon Posset Recipe

Lemon posset is a classic British dessert made with just three simple ingredients: lemons, sugar, and cream. This light, fresh, and tangy treat is perfect for those looking for an easy dessert that pairs beautifully with a heavy meal. For an extra special presentation, try serving your lemon posset in lemon shells to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Posset

Despite having many different recipes on my blog, including some complicated ones, I always prefer easy recipes for myself. And this is exactly why I LOVE this easy lemon posset dessert so much! First, you only need three main ingredients, making it incredibly simple to prepare. You can easily impress anyone with the beautiful presentation by serving it in lemon shells, and the best part is that no special equipment is needed. Plus, it’s surprisingly affordable to make, so it’s a great choice when you want to create something special without spending a lot.

What is Lemon Posset

raditionally, posset was a warm, spiced milk drink popular in medieval Britain, often used as a remedy for colds. Over time, it evolved into a rich and creamy dessert made by curdling cream with citrus juice. Lemon posset is the most common variation today, where fresh lemon juice is combined with cream and sugar to create a luscious, tangy dessert. The acidity from the lemons thickens the cream, resulting in a smooth and velvety texture, perfect for a refreshing treat after a meal. It’s a classic example of how a few simple ingredients can create something truly indulgent.

Lemon posset in lemon shells adds a visually stunning twist to this easy dessert. Not only does the presentation impress, but the recipe itself is incredibly simple to prepare. With no need for eggs, gelatin, or special equipment, it’s a hassle-free dessert that anyone can master. Whether served in elegant ramekins or hollowed-out lemon shells for a more rustic, show-stopping effect, lemon posset is the ideal choice when you need a quick yet elegant dessert.

Ingredients For Lemon Posset

Vanilla Bean Paste (optional): Adds a subtle layer of warmth and depth to the dessert, complementing the lemon flavor. Though optional, it elevates the posset with a hint of vanilla essence.

Lemons: The star ingredient that provides the fresh, tangy flavor. The acidity from the lemon juice is what thickens the cream, transforming it into the smooth, velvety posset texture.

Lemon Zest: Adds an extra burst of citrus aroma and flavor, enhancing the overall lemony taste of the dessert.

Sugar: Balances the tartness of the lemons and adds sweetness to the posset, creating a perfect harmony of sweet and tangy flavors.

Heavy Cream/Double Cream: The creamy base that forms the rich, luscious texture of the posset. When combined with the lemon juice, it thickens naturally without the need for gelatin or eggs.

Lemon Dessert In Lemon Shell

Lemon posset served in a lemon shell is not only a delicious dessert but also a visually striking way to impress your guests. Hollowing out lemon halves and using them as natural bowls adds a rustic, elegant touch to your presentation. This idea elevates the dessert, making it perfect for dinner parties or special occasions. For serving, you can garnish each lemon shell with a mint leaf, fresh berries, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Paired with a simple cookie or shortbread on the side, this easy lemon dessert is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

How to Store Lemon Posset

To store lemon posset, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. Lemon posset needs to chill for at least 2 hours to set properly, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert. If serving in lemon shells, be sure to store them upright to prevent spilling. For best results, serve the posset chilled, straight from the fridge, and avoid freezing as it can alter the smooth, creamy texture.

How to Serve Lemon Posset

Lemon posset is best served chilled, making it a refreshing dessert after a meal. For an elegant presentation, you can serve it in lemon shells, ramekins, or small dessert cups. Garnish the posset with fresh berries, a sprig of mint, or a light dusting of powdered sugar to add color and contrast. Pair it with buttery shortbread or crisp biscuits for a delightful texture combination. If you’re serving lemon posset in lemon shells, place them on a plate with a small base of crushed ice or salt to keep them steady and chilled.

Substitutes and Variations

For lemon posset, there are a few substitutions and variations to try:

1. Citrus Substitutes: If you want to switch up the flavor, you can substitute the lemon juice with lime, orange, or grapefruit juice. These will provide a different citrusy twist while maintaining the same creamy texture.
2. Sugar Substitutes: To make a lower-sugar version, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the flavor.
3. Dairy-Free Variation: For a dairy-free lemon posset, you can use full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy cream. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be rich and smooth.
4. Flavor Additions: You can experiment by adding different flavorings such as a touch of lavender, rosemary, or thyme for a herby twist. Alternatively, a dash of limoncello can add a boozy edge to the dessert.

These substitutions and variations can offer a new experience while keeping the essence of the original lemon posset intact.

More Lemon Desserts You Might Like

If you a big fan od lemon desserts like me, make sure to check out these amazing lemon dessert ideas.

 

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