Name: Decadent Lemon Posset: A Silky, No-Bake Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 199 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Heavy Cream (Use full-fat (30% or more) for best results.); 4 tablespoons Sugar (Alternatively use castor sugar for finer dissolve.); 2 units Lemons (Fresh lemons are essential for maximum flavor; avoid bottled juice.)

As the sun starts to break through the clouds on a warm afternoon, I find myself craving something light yet indulgent. Enter Lemon Posset—an elegant no-bake dessert that deftly combines just three simple ingredients: heavy cream, fresh lemons, and sugar. Within a mere 15 minutes, this gluten-free and eggless delight transforms into a luxuriously creamy treat that’s perfect for any summer gathering or cozy dinner. One of the best perks? You’re left with minimal cleanup while effortlessly impressing your guests. Trust me, this airy concoction will tantalize your taste buds and make you forget about those fast food temptations. Ready to brighten up your dessert game? Let’s dive into making this zesty jewel of a recipe!

Why is Lemon Posset a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This delightful dessert requires just three ingredients, making it accessible for even the busiest home cooks.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip it up in under 15 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the day.
Versatile Presentation: Serve it in zesty lemon shells or chic ramekins to add a visual flair to your table.
Lively Flavor: The combination of rich creaminess and vibrant lemon tang creates a refreshing taste that perfectly balances indulgence and brightness.
Perfect for Gatherings: This no-bake treat is an ideal choice for summer parties, elegant dinners, or just satisfying a sweet craving without the fuss. Unexpected cravings? You might also enjoy my Lemon Truffles Minutes or the refreshing Lemon Meringue Pie.

Lemon Posset Ingredients

• A delightful trio for a perfect dessert!

For the Creamy Base

Heavy Cream – This provides a luxuriously rich texture; opt for full-fat (30% or more) for best results.
Sugar – Sweetens the posset beautifully; feel free to substitute with castor sugar for a finer dissolve.

For the Zesty Flavor

Lemons – Fresh lemons are essential for maximum flavor impact; skip bottled juice for a truly vibrant taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Posset

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons
Begin by thoroughly washing two fresh lemons to remove any wax or residue. Zest the lemons carefully, avoiding the bitter white pith, and then halve them. Scoop out the pulp carefully to extract as much juice as possible while keeping the lemon shells intact for a beautiful presentation.

Step 2: Juice Extraction
Using a lemon squeezer or strainer, press the lemon halves to extract the juice, which should yield about ½ cup. Strain the juice to eliminate any seeds or pulp that might interfere with the smooth texture of your Lemon Posset. Set this aside while you prepare the creamy base.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a small saucepan, pour in 2 cups of heavy cream along with 4 tablespoons of sugar. Place it over medium heat, stirring gently for about 3-4 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely. Be careful not to let it boil; you’re looking for a gentle warm-up, not a simmer.

Step 4: Mix Lemon Juice
Once you’ve dissolved the sugar, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool for about 10-15 seconds. Gradually whisk in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest. Stir consistently to combine the flavors without risking curdling, creating a silky blend for your Lemon Posset.

Step 5: Strain the Mixture
To ensure a perfectly smooth texture, pour the cream-lemon mixture through a fine sieve or strainer into another bowl. This process will remove any lumps or air bubbles that might have formed during mixing, resulting in a velvety Lemon Posset.

Step 6: Set in Shells
Carefully pour the strained posset mixture into your prepared lemon shells or ramekins. Fill them evenly, leaving a little space at the top. The lemon shells not only enhance the flavor but also add an elegant touch to your presentation, making each serving a delightful treat.

Step 7: Chill
Place the filled lemon shells or ramekins in the refrigerator, allowing them to chill for 2-3 hours. The posset will set beautifully during this time, developing its silky consistency. Keep an eye on them as they firm up, and prepare to impress your guests!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
When ready to serve, remove the Lemon Posset from the refrigerator. Garnish each posset with lemon triangles, a sprig of fresh mint, or a handful of berries to add a pop of color and flavor. Dive into this refreshing, no-bake dessert that will surely brighten up any occasion!

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Posset

Fridge: Store your Lemon Posset in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps it fresh and maintains its silky texture.
Freezer: Avoid freezing the Lemon Posset, as this may change its creamy consistency and lead to an undesirable texture upon thawing.
Reheating: This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and should not be reheated. Instead, garnish with fresh toppings before serving to bring back its vibrant flavors.

Make Ahead Options

Lemon Posset is a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can easily prepare the creamy base up to 24 hours in advance by combining the heavy cream, sugar, and lemon juice, then straining the mixture. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and silky. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour it into your lemon shells or ramekins, chill for an additional 2-3 hours, and garnish as desired. This makes for a stress-free dessert that maintains its luscious texture and flavor, ensuring your guests will enjoy the same delightful experience without the last-minute rush!

Lemon Posset Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tailor this delightful dessert to your taste buds and dietary needs!

Citrus Swap: Try using oranges or limes instead of lemons for a fresh twist that brightens the flavor profile.
Cream Alternative: For a lighter option, substitute coconut cream as a non-dairy alternative while retaining the richness.

This swap not only ensures a creamy texture but also adds a subtle hint of tropical sweetness.
Vegan Version: Replace heavy cream with cashew cream blended with a splash of almond milk. Adjust the sweetness for a plant-based dessert that’s equally indulgent.
Herb Infusion: Add a few fresh mint or basil leaves in the heating cream for an aromatic herbal note that plays beautifully with the citrus.

This elevates your posset and surprises your guests with an unexpected flavor boost.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a splash of vanilla extract into the cream mixture, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
Heat Level: For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely grated ginger—it adds an intriguing contrast without overpowering the lemon.

This adds warmth, making the dessert surprisingly complex and inviting.
Berry Topping: Swap out traditional garnishes for fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries, creating a beautiful pop of color and tartness.

Their sweetness complements the lemon tang perfectly!
Storage Reminder: Store any extra posset in a sealed container in the fridge. You can enjoy this fabulous dessert again while savoring the flavors on a lazy afternoon.

Explore more delightful lemon treats like my Lemon Meltaways Buttery or the irresistible Lemon Lavender Cheesecake to discover additional creative ways to satisfy your lemon cravings!

What to Serve with Easy 3-Ingredient Gluten-Free Lemon Posset

When the zesty notes of lemon posset dance across your palate, you might find yourself dreaming of the perfect meal to complement its bright flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of these mashed potatoes brings a comforting balance to the tang of lemon posset, creating a delightful contrast.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: The rich, savory notes of garlic butter shrimp will enhance the posset’s sweetness, making for an unforgettable flavor pairing.
Arugula Salad: With its peppery greens and bright vinaigrette, this salad adds freshness and a crunchy texture that perfectly offsets the creamy dessert.
Grilled Asparagus: The smoky char of grilled asparagus provides a satisfying crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft and silky posset you’ve prepared.
Fresh Berry Medley: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds sweetness and tartness, echoing the lively flavors of lemon posset while adding a refreshing bite.
Sparkling Lemonade: This effervescent drink ties in lemony goodness with a refreshing spark that lightens the palate, making it an ideal companion for your dessert.
Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture of biscottis dipped in coffee provides an elegant finish, creating a lovely texture contrast to the smooth posset.
Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a decadently rich chocolate mousse for those who crave a dual dessert experience that’s unforgettably delicious.
Lemon Sorbet: For a cold, refreshing treat that complements the posset, lemon sorbet enhances the citrus notes while cleansing the palate between bites.
Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea brings a relaxing touch that seamlessly pairs with the rich flavors of lemon posset, rounding out the meal beautifully.

Expert Tips for Lemon Posset

Cream Quality Matters: Use full-fat heavy cream (30% or more) for the best texture; low-fat versions may not set properly.
Timing is Key: Add the lemon juice to the cream immediately after removing it from heat to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth consistency.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice for a vibrant flavor and aroma in your Lemon Posset.
Strain Well: Straining the mixture is crucial for a silky-smooth dessert; don’t skip this step to avoid lumps.
Chill Thoroughly: Allow at least 2-3 hours in the refrigerator for the posset to set properly before garnishing and serving.

Lemon Posset Recipe FAQs

What type of cream should I use for Lemon Posset?
Absolutely! For the best results, use full-fat heavy cream with a fat content of 30% or more. This ensures a rich, creamy texture that sets perfectly. Low-fat creams often struggle to achieve that luxurious, velvety consistency we all love in a posset.

How long can I store Lemon Posset in the fridge?
Your Lemon Posset can happily rest in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to store it in a sealed container to maintain its freshness and creamy texture. I often recommend enjoying it on the first day for the best flavor, but it will still be delicious for a second day!

Can I freeze Lemon Posset?
I do not recommend freezing Lemon Posset. Freezing may alter its creamy consistency, resulting in a grainy texture when thawed. If you’re looking to prepare it ahead of time, chilling it in the fridge for a few hours before serving is the way to go to keep that silky smooth finish.

What if my Lemon Posset doesn’t set?
If your posset isn’t setting, it’s likely due to not using enough cream or sugar, or perhaps your heating process was too hot. Ensure you’re using full-fat heavy cream and dissolve the sugar gently without boiling. If it does not set after chilling for the recommended time, give it another hour or two in the fridge; it might just need a little extra time!

Are there any dietary considerations for Lemon Posset?
Very! Lemon Posset is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a fantastic option for those with specific dietary preferences. However, if you’re catering to guests with allergies, ensure they can consume dairy products, as the recipe relies on heavy cream. You could explore coconut cream alternatives for a non-dairy version, but keep in mind this will slightly alter the taste and consistency.

What are some serving suggestions for Lemon Posset?
The more the merrier! Serve your Lemon Posset in the hollowed-out lemon shells for a fun, zesty flair, or choose elegant ramekins for a refined presentation. Top with fresh berries, mint leaves, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra pop of color that will elevate your dessert to the next level.