Print

Lemon Possets

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Lemon Possets are rich, silky citrus desserts made by simmering heavy cream with sugar and adding fresh lemon juice for a naturally smooth set. Served well chilled with berries or lemon zest, they make an elegant and effortless make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
  • Fresh berries, for serving, optional
  • Additional lemon zest, for garnish, optional

Instructions

  1. Finely grate enough lemon zest to measure 1 tablespoon, avoiding the bitter white pith. Juice the lemons and measure 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice.
  2. Pour the heavy cream into a medium saucepan and add the granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently and watching carefully to prevent the cream from boiling over.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional vanilla extract.
  5. Let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes to begin thickening.
  6. For an especially smooth texture, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a measuring jug.
  7. Divide the mixture evenly among 6 small glasses, ramekins, or dessert cups and allow them to cool briefly.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until completely chilled and set.
  9. Garnish with fresh berries and additional lemon zest as desired and serve directly from the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest citrus flavor and reliable acidity.
  • Use heavy cream with sufficient fat and measure the lemon juice accurately to help the possets set properly.
  • For Lime Possets, replace the lemon juice and zest with fresh lime juice and zest.
  • For an orange variation, add orange zest while retaining enough lemon juice to provide the acidity needed for setting.
  • Vanilla bean paste, vanilla extract, or an herb such as mint can be used to add another aromatic flavor.
  • Serve with raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, shortbread cookies, or biscotti.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and add fresh fruit or crunchy garnishes shortly before serving.
  • Freezing is not recommended because it can affect the smooth texture.
  • Do not reheat Lemon Possets; they are intended to be served chilled.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/lemon-possets/