Lemon Posset is a creamy and tangy dessert that’s super easy to make! With just three ingredients—heavy cream, sugar, and fresh lemon juice—it’s a simple delight that’s hard to resist.
It’s so smooth and refreshing, perfect for a light treat after dinner. Trust me, I always sneak extra servings because it’s just that good! 🍋✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream: This is crucial for the posset’s rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, opt for half-and-half, but the final texture may be less creamy.
Granulated Sugar: White sugar is standard here, but you can use coconut sugar or honey for a different flavor note. Be aware that the sweetness levels may vary, so adjust to your taste.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is always best for a bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but make sure it’s 100% juice without additives.
Lemon Zest: This adds fantastic aroma and flavor. If you lack fresh lemons, consider lemon extract in a pinch, but use it sparingly as it’s quite potent.
Fresh Raspberries: While they make a lovely garnish, other berries like blueberries or strawberries also fit well. Just pick your favorite for a personal touch!
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Texture in a Lemon Posset?
Getting the right texture is crucial for a successful lemon posset. The process isn’t difficult but does require attention during cooking and cooling.
- Start by heating the cream and sugar slowly. Stir until the sugar dissolves but avoid boiling the cream. Boiling can cause the cream to curdle!
- Once off the heat, mix in the lemon juice and zest thoroughly. This step ensures even flavor distribution.
- After cooling for 15-20 mins, strain out the zest for a silky smooth posset. It also helps in setting better.
- Finally, patience is key. Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture, giving you a wonderful creamy dessert.
How to Make Lemon Posset?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For Garnish:
- Fresh raspberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Posset takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. For the best results, letting it set overnight is recommended. Simple and refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Cream:
In a medium saucepan, pour in the heavy cream and add the granulated sugar. Place it over medium heat and stir occasionally. Keep an eye on it until the sugar dissolves and the cream is warm, but don’t let it come to a full boil.
2. Mixing in the Lemon:
Once the cream is hot and the sugar has dissolved, take the saucepan off the heat. Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to the warm cream mixture. Stir gently until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Straining and Cooling:
Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes to cool slightly. After that, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a measuring cup or bowl. This will help remove any bits of zest and give your posset a silky texture.
4. Pouring into Glasses:
Carefully pour the strained lemon cream into individual serving glasses or ramekins, filling them about three-quarters full. Cover each with plastic wrap or a lid.
5. Refrigerating to Set:
Place the glasses in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This setting time is what makes the posset firm and delicious!
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Once the possets are set, it’s time to serve! Garnish each glass with fresh raspberries right before you present them. Enjoy your refreshing and zesty Lemon Posset!
Can I Use Different Citrus Juices?
Absolutely! While lemon juice gives this posset its signature flavor, you can substitute with lime juice or orange juice for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change, so adjust the zest accordingly to match the citrus used.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Lemon Posset?
You can store leftover Lemon Posset in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the glasses or ramekins tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
Can I Use Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream?
While half-and-half can be used, the texture of the posset will be less rich and creamy compared to using heavy cream. If you choose this substitution, increase the sugar slightly to help balance the lighter consistency.
What Should I Do If My Posset Doesn’t Set?
If your posset hasn’t set after chilling for the recommended time, it may need longer in the fridge. Make sure to refrigerate it at least overnight for best results. If it’s still not thickening after a day, you might need to adjust the lemon juice next time, as too much acidity can prevent proper setting.
