If you are searching for a simple yet elegant dessert to impress your guests or indulge yourself, look no further than the classic English Lemon Posset. This delightful treat combines the tartness of fresh lemons with a luscious cream base, creating a silky-smooth dessert that is both refreshing and satisfying. Originating from medieval England, it has made a comeback in modern kitchens due to its minimal ingredients and ease of preparation. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create your own English Lemon Posset. You will not only enjoy its zesty flavor but also appreciate the quick preparation time that makes it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that transports your taste buds straight to England. So grab some lemons and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This English Lemon Posset
- Ingredients for English Lemon Posset
- How to Make English Lemon Posset
- Tips and Tricks
- How to Serve English Lemon Posset
- Make Ahead and Storage
- Suggestions for English Lemon Posset:
- Avoid Using Too Much Sugar
- Don’t Skip the Chilling Time
- Using Fresh Lemons is Essential
- Measure Ingredients Accurately
- What is English Lemon Posset made from?
- How long does it take for English Lemon Posset to set?
- Can I use alternative sweeteners in my English Lemon Posset?
- Is there a way to make English Lemon Posset dairy-free?
- Conclusion for English Lemon Posset:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This English Lemon Posset
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for English Lemon Posset
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Heavy Cream: Use high-quality heavy cream for the best texture and richness in your posset.
- Granulated Sugar: Regular granulated sugar helps balance the tartness of the lemons.
- Fresh Lemons: Choose juicy lemons for maximum zest and juice; organic lemons are often more flavorful.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of this dessert.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
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How to Make English Lemon Posset
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. Zest two fresh lemons using a microplane grater to capture the bright citrus flavors.
Step 2: Heat Cream and Sugar
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine two cups of heavy cream and three-quarters cup of granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar fully dissolves.
Step 3: Add Flavorings
Remove the saucepan from heat once it reaches a gentle simmer. Add in the lemon zest and one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice along with one teaspoon of vanilla extract, stirring well.
Step 4: Cool Mixture
Allow the mixture to cool slightly at room temperature before pouring it into serving cups or ramekins.
Step 5: Chill in Refrigerator
Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for at least four hours or until set completely.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, remove from the fridge. Garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh berries if desired before serving.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for optimal flavor—store-bought juice may lack freshness.
- Chilling Time: Allow ample chilling time in the refrigerator; overnight chilling can enhance flavors even more.
- Serve Chilled: For best results, serve your possets chilled straight from the fridge; they’ll taste even more refreshing.
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How to Serve English Lemon Posset
This English Lemon Posset is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Biscotti: The crunchy texture of biscotti contrasts nicely with the creamy posset, enhancing each bite.
- Seasonal Berries: Fresh berries add a burst of color and tartness, balancing the sweetness of the posset.
- Shortbread Cookies: These buttery cookies complement the citrus notes in the lemon posset perfectly.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the English Lemon Posset up to two days in advance. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight for best results.
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness.
- Reheating: Generally, this posset is served chilled. If you need to adjust its texture, stir gently before serving; avoid heating as it may change consistency.
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Suggestions for English Lemon Posset:
Avoid Using Too Much Sugar
When preparing English Lemon Posset, it’s essential to avoid adding excessive sugar. While a sweet dessert is delightful, too much sugar can overpower the refreshing lemon flavor. Stick to the recipe’s suggested amount of sugar, typically around 100 grams, to maintain the right balance. Remember, the goal is to achieve a harmonious blend of tartness and sweetness. You may taste your mixture before it sets to ensure the sweetness aligns with your preference. If you find it too sweet, consider adding a bit more lemon juice for balance.
Don’t Skip the Chilling Time
Chilling time is crucial for English Lemon Posset. After combining your ingredients, allow the mixture to cool at room temperature before refrigerating it. The chilling process helps the posset set properly, creating that delightful creamy texture. Skipping or shortening this step can lead to a soupy dessert rather than a smooth, rich posset. Ideally, chill it for at least four hours or overnight for best results. This ensures each serving has that perfect consistency and flavor.
Using Fresh Lemons is Essential
Using fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice can significantly impact your English Lemon Posset’s taste. Freshly squeezed lemon juice offers vibrant flavor and aroma that enhances the dessert’s overall appeal. Bottled juice often contains preservatives and lacks that fresh zestiness which is vital for a successful posset. When selecting lemons, look for ones that are firm and bright yellow; they should feel heavy for their size. Zest the lemons as well, as this adds an extra layer of brightness to your dish.
Measure Ingredients Accurately
Accurate measurement of ingredients is critical when making English Lemon Posset. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients like sugar and cream to ensure you’re following the recipe correctly. Precision in measurements guarantees consistent results every time you prepare this dessert. Even slight variations in ingredient quantities can alter the texture and taste of your posset significantly. Invest time in measuring carefully; it will pay off with a deliciously creamy dessert that’s perfectly balanced.
FAQs:
What is English Lemon Posset made from?
English Lemon Posset traditionally comprises just three simple ingredients: heavy cream, sugar, and fresh lemon juice (along with zest). The heavy cream forms the base of this luscious dessert while sugar sweetens it to perfection. Fresh lemon juice provides the necessary acidity and brightness that defines its flavor profile. The combination results in an incredibly rich yet refreshing treat that’s loved across various occasions, from family gatherings to elegant dinner parties.
How long does it take for English Lemon Posset to set?
The setting time for English Lemon Posset usually ranges between four hours to overnight in the refrigerator. After preparing your mixture of cream, sugar, and lemon juice, it’s crucial to allow it sufficient time in cold storage so that it achieves that desirable creamy consistency. Factors such as room temperature when mixing or variations in your fridge’s cooling efficiency might affect setting times; therefore, it’s advisable not to rush this process if you want a perfect result.
Can I use alternative sweeteners in my English Lemon Posset?
Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners in your English Lemon Posset if you prefer not to use granulated sugar. Options like honey or agave syrup can work well for those seeking natural alternatives while still providing sweetness without altering the posset’s texture too much. Keep in mind that different sweeteners may vary in sweetness levels compared to regular sugar; hence adjustment might be necessary based on personal preference. Always taste as you go!
Is there a way to make English Lemon Posset dairy-free?
Yes! To create a dairy-free version of English Lemon Posset, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream alternative available on the market today. Coconut cream lends a lovely richness that complements lemon beautifully while keeping everything vegan-friendly if desired! Be sure also to adjust sweetness levels according to your chosen alternative’s flavor profile since some plant-based creams might have added sugars.
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Conclusion for English Lemon Posset:
In summary, making delicious English Lemon Posset involves avoiding common pitfalls such as over-sweetening and using bottled juices instead of fresh lemons. Ensure proper chilling time allows your possets to achieve their signature texture while accurately measuring ingredients leads you toward consistent results every time you prepare this classic dessert! By following these guidelines along with answering relevant questions about key aspects of preparation methods or ingredient substitutions—anyone can master this delightful treat perfect for any occasion! Enjoy indulging in this light yet satisfying dessert experience soon!
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📖 Recipe Card
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English Lemon Posset
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
English Lemon Posset is a delightful, creamy dessert that perfectly balances the bright zest of fresh lemons with rich heavy cream. This classic British treat is surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. With its luxurious texture and refreshing flavor, it’s an ideal choice for any gathering or a sweet escape at home. Prepare it in advance to impress your guests or enjoy a moment of indulgence on your own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 fresh lemons (zest and juice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and zest two lemons using a microplane grater.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and granulated sugar, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly before pouring it into serving cups or ramekins.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Serve chilled, garnished with additional lemon zest or fresh berries if desired.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, chill overnight before serving.
Feel free to adjust sweetness by adding more lemon juice if desired.
Pair with biscotti or shortbread cookies for added texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 posset (150g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 130mg