Lemon Posset Recipe

Lemon Posset is a traditional British dessert known for its simplicity and elegance. This creamy, citrusy treat is made with just three main ingredients: cream, sugar, and lemons. Its smooth texture and bright flavor make it the perfect ending to any meal. This detailed recipe will guide you through the steps to create a delicious Lemon Posset, along with tips for variations and serving suggestions.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large lemons (you will need both the zest and the juice)
• Fresh berries, for garnish (optional)
• Mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:

1. Zest the Lemons: Using a fine grater or a microplane, zest the lemons. Be careful to zest only the yellow part and not the white pith, which can be bitter. Set the zest aside.
2. Juice the Lemons: Cut the lemons in half and juice them. You should have about 1/2 cup of lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove any seeds or pulp.

3. Heat the Cream and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
4. Simmer: Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 minutes. Keep stirring to prevent the cream from scorching.
5. Add Lemon: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. The acid from the lemons will cause the cream to thicken and set.
6. Cool the Mixture: Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to cool slightly and allow the flavors to meld.

3. Setting the Posset:

7. Strain: For a smooth posset, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or a bowl, discarding the zest.
8. Pour into Serving Dishes: Divide the mixture evenly among six small serving glasses or ramekins.
9. Chill: Cover the glasses or ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set. The posset will firm up as it chills.

4. Serving:

10. Garnish: Just before serving, garnish each posset with fresh berries and mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
11. Serve: Serve the Lemon Posset chilled, and enjoy its creamy, tangy delight.

Tips for Success:

• Cream: Use heavy cream with a high fat content for the best texture. Lower fat creams may not set properly.
• Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, you can add a bit more zest to the mixture before straining.
• Straining: Straining the mixture ensures a silky smooth texture, but if you prefer a more rustic posset, you can skip this step and leave the zest in.
• Presentation: Lemon Posset can be served in a variety of dishes, from elegant glassware to rustic ramekins. Choose what best suits your style and occasion.
• Make Ahead: This dessert is great for entertaining because it can be made a day in advance and kept chilled until ready to serve.

Variations:

• Lemon and Lime Posset: Replace half of the lemon juice with lime juice for a tangy twist.
• Lavender Lemon Posset: Infuse the cream with a few sprigs of fresh lavender during the heating process for a floral note. Remove the lavender before adding the lemon juice.
• Berry Compote Topping: Top the posset with a spoonful of homemade berry compote for added sweetness and texture.

Conclusion:

Lemon Posset is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with sophistication. Its creamy texture and zesty flavor make it a refreshing end to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this recipe for Lemon Posset will surely impress with its ease of preparation and delightful taste. Enjoy crafting and savoring this classic British dessert!