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If you’re looking for the easiest fancy dessert to impress your friends and family, then say hello to lemon posset – the British dessert that’s as fun to say as it is to eat!

This silky, citrusy treat only needs three simple ingredients (yes, three!) and comes together in no time. It’s smooth, rich, tart, and elegant – like lemon pudding’s glamorous cousin. And the best part? No eggs, no gelatin, no fuss!

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a bridal shower, or just want to treat yourself after a long day, lemon posset is the perfect make-ahead dessert that feels fancy without all the work.

What Is Lemon Posset?

Lemon posset is a traditional British dessert made from heavy cream, sugar, and fresh lemon juice. That’s it! The magic happens when the acid from the lemon juice reacts with the cream and sugar to thicken into a luscious custard-like consistency.

No baking, gelatin, or cornstarch. Just a little stovetop simmering and some chill time in the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need (3-Ingredient Lemon Posset!)

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 large lemons)

I like to pull the flesh out of the lemon halves and squeeze the juice out that way. Look below on how to use those cool rinds as the serving bowl for your posset.

💡 Optional: Add a bit of lemon zest for even brighter citrus flavor!

How to Make Lemon Posset

1. Simmer the cream and sugar.
   In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture will reduce slightly and become a little thicker.
2. Add lemon juice.
   Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice (and zest if you’re using it). The mixture will start to thicken almost immediately – that’s science doing its thing!
3. Strain and pour.
   Strain the posset through a fine mesh sieve into a spouted measuring cup to catch any zest or curdled bits. Then pour the mixture into small glasses, ramekins, or jars. For a more elegant touch, serve it right in the lemon rinds.
4. Chill and set.
   Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight. The posset will firm up into a perfectly scoopable dessert with a silky-smooth texture.

How to Serve Lemon Posset

Once it’s set, top your lemon posset with:

• Fresh berries (blueberries and raspberries are my faves!)
• A dollop of whipped cream
• A sprig of mint
• Shortbread cookies or gingersnaps on the side for crunch

This dessert is light, bright, and refreshing – ideal for spring and summer gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal ingredients – just 3 pantry staples
• No baking required
• Make-ahead friendly – great for entertaining!
• A fabulous way to use up extra lemons

FAQs About Lemon Posset

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best! Bottled juice can taste flat or too acidic. Stick with fresh-squeezed for that vibrant citrus punch.

How long does lemon posset last?
It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered. Great for prepping ahead!

Can I make it dairy-free?
Sadly, no. The recipe depends on the high fat content of heavy cream to set properly.

Final Thoughts

Lemon posset might sound like a dessert you’d find at a fancy tea party in the English countryside, but it’s one of the easiest no-bake desserts you can make at home. Sweet, tangy, and silky-smooth – it’s pure sunshine in a glass!

So the next time you're craving something sweet and citrusy, give this easy lemon posset recipe a try. You won’t believe how something this simple can taste this luxurious.

Check Out These Other Delicious Lemon Desserts

• Ina Garten's Lemon Bars
• Frozen Lemonade Pie
• Lemon Poppyseed Summer Squash Bread