Lemon Posset Recipe
Introduction
Lemon posset is a simple, elegant British dessert made with just a few ingredients. Its creamy texture and bright citrus flavor make it a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
- Lemon slices or fresh berries, for garnish
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat slightly to maintain a steady medium boil. Let it boil for 5 minutes, being careful not to let it boil over.
- Step 3: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice thoroughly. Set aside to cool for 15 minutes.
- Step 4: Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to remove any solids and ensure a smooth texture.
- Step 5: Pour the strained lemon posset evenly into 6 ramekins or into 10–12 hollowed-out lemon halves for an elegant presentation. Fill each about three-quarters full.
- Step 6: Refrigerate the filled containers for at least 2 hours, or until the posset is fully set with a firm but creamy consistency.
- Step 7: Before serving, top each posset with a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Garnish with a lemon slice or fresh berries for a bright finish.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and a bright, natural citrus taste.
- For a creamier texture, slightly increase the heavy cream by 1/4 cup and reduce sugar by 1 tablespoon.
- Try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest for extra lemon aroma without altering texture.
- Adapt the garnish to seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a colorful presentation.
Storage
Store lemon posset covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve for the best texture. If needed, you can let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to soften slightly, but avoid leaving it out too long to maintain freshness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make lemon posset ahead of time?
Yes, lemon posset can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated until serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the dessert to set perfectly.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh lemons?
While fresh lemon juice is best for its natural flavor and acidity, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Use the same quantity but adjust to taste since bottled juice can be more concentrated or less vibrant.
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Lemon Posset Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Lemon Posset recipe is a simple yet elegant British dessert featuring a rich, velvety cream base infused with fresh lemon juice. It’s smooth, tangy, and creamy, requiring just a few ingredients and a short preparation time, perfect for a refreshing treat or impressive dinner party dessert.
Ingredients
Posset Base
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 5 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
Garnish
- Lemon slices or fresh berries
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Boil: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Stir continuously over medium heat to dissolve the sugar completely. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly to maintain a steady medium boil. Let it boil gently for 5 minutes, careful not to let it boil over.
- Add lemon: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice thoroughly. Set the mixture aside to cool for 15 minutes. Then strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to catch any solids and ensure a smooth texture.
- Fill: Pour the strained lemon posset mixture evenly into 6 ramekins or into 10-12 hollowed-out lemon halves if you prefer an elegant presentation. Fill each container about three-quarters full to allow the posset to set properly.
- Refrigerate: Place the filled ramekins or lemon halves in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, or until the posset is fully set and has a firm but creamy consistency.
- Serve: Just before serving, top each posset with a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Garnish with a lemon slice or fresh berries for a vibrant, attractive finish.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and natural acidity.
- Carefully monitor the boiling cream mixture to prevent it from boiling over.
- Straining the mixture ensures a silky smooth texture free of curdled bits.
- Posset can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated until serving.
- For an elegant presentation, use hollowed-out lemon halves instead of ramekins.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: Lemon Posset, British dessert, creamy lemon dessert, easy lemon recipe, no-bake dessert

