Lemon Posset Recipe

This Lemon Posset in Lemon Cups is a rich, creamy citrus dessert made with just three simple ingredients. It is served in hollowed-out lemon halves for an elegant presentation. With its silky texture, bright lemon flavor, and no-bake simplicity, this easy lemon posset recipe is the perfect make-ahead dessert.

Lemon Posset is one of the easiest desserts you’ll ever make, yet it delivers an elegant and creamy texture with bright citrus flavor. This classic British dessert dates back to the Middle Ages, originally served as a hot drink for medicinal purposes before evolving into the rich, pudding-like texture we know today. 

With just three simple ingredients, no baking, and minimal effort, this lemon posset recipe is a perfect choice for dinner parties, baby showers, or when you just need a refreshing dessert. Best of all, we’re taking it up a notch by serving it in lemon cups for a beautiful presentation that makes the end result extra special!

Why This Recipe Works

• Minimal Effort, Maximum Elegance: With just a heavy cream, sugar mixture, and fresh lemon juice, you get a creamy dessert with a silky smooth finish.
• Naturally Thickens Without Egg Yolks: The citric acid in the citrus juice reacts with the cups of cream, thickening the cream mixture to create a stable, luscious texture.
• Perfect for Make-Ahead Desserts: Since it needs a few hours to set at room temperature, this is a great option for dinner parties and gatherings where you want a stress-free dessert.

Supplies Needed

To make these lemon posset cups, you’ll need:

• A small saucepan
• A measuring cup
• A fine sieve
• A food processor (optional, for juicing the lemons)
• A muffin tin or small cups to keep the lemon halves stable while setting
• Plastic wrap for storing in an airtight container

Ingredients

• Lemons: Used for both fresh lemon juice and as lemon shells for serving. Meyer lemons work beautifully for a slightly sweeter touch.
• Heavy cream / Double cream: Provides a rich, velvety texture. Heavy whipping cream also works for this recipe.
• Sugar mixture: Caster sugar or superfine sugar dissolves best.
• Lemon zest: Adds an extra burst of lemon flavor to enhance the fresh lemons.
• Garnishes: Fresh berries, fresh mint, or a dusting of lemon peel zest add a finishing touch.

Substitutions & Variations

• Try a lime posset or orange posset by swapping out the citrus varieties.
• For a richer texture, use double cream instead of cups of cream.
• If you love more texture, swirl in a bit of lemon curd for extra citrus depth.

How To Make Lemon Cups

1. Prepare the Lemons: Cut the whole lemons in half widthwise. Using a spoon or a food processor (if needed), carefully scoop out the flesh and juice without puncturing the lemon rinds.
2. Strain the Juice: Using a fine sieve, strain the fresh lemon juice to remove any pulp or seeds. You’ll need about tablespoons of lemon juice for the posset.
3. Stabilize the Lemon Cups: Place the lemon shells in a muffin tin or small cups so they sit upright while filling.

How to Make Lemon Posset

1. Simmer the Cream Mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, sugar mixture, and optional lemon zest. Stir occasionally and bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Cook for 3 Minutes: Let it bubble lightly over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Incorporate Citrus Juice: Remove from heat and slowly whisk in the citrus juice. The posset set process begins immediately as the hot curdled milk thickens into a smooth cream mixture.
4. Fill the Lemon Cups: Carefully pour the warm mixture into the lemon halves.
5. Let it Set: Allow them to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours until fully set.

Expert Tips

• Best Results: Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled, for the best lemon flavor.
• Avoid Overheating: Keep the medium lemons at a gentle simmer to prevent scorching.
• Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container and cover with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
• Letfover Lemon Juice: Find yourself with leftover lemon juice? Try making this raspberry lemon ice box cake or this honey lemon pepper sauce recipe.

What to Serve With It

This elegant dessert pairs well with:

• Finish off a meal of tomahawk steak with red wine compound butter for a beautiful palate cleanser.
• Go lemon crazy and pair it with this creamy lemon chicken pasta recipe.
• The citrusy notes go wonderfully with this Mojo Roasted Chicken.
• A glass of wine or pair with this prosseco mint julep recipe.

More Recipes To Try

Langostino Ceviche

Keto Lemon Bars

Grilled Lemon Pepper Wings

Lemon Pepper Chicken Marinade

Mini Basque Cheesecake Recipe