Lemon Posset Brûlée

Name: Lemon Posset Brûlée
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; ¼ cup granulated sugar (+ more for brûlée); 1-1½ lemons (zested); 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Published: January 26, 2026

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just 3-4 ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare.
No Baking Required: Enjoy this creamy dessert without the hassle of baking, making it ideal for any skill level.
Impressive Presentation: The torched sugar topping not only adds flavor but also looks stunning.
Versatile Flavor: The bright lemon flavor can be adjusted to your taste, adding more or less juice as desired.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an elegant dinner or a casual gathering, this dessert fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Lemon Posset Brûlée, gather your essential tools and ensure you’re prepared for an easy cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Saucepan
Sieve
Spoon
Blowtorch (for brûlée)
Lemon squeezer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Saucepan: A good-quality saucepan ensures even heating when thickening the cream mixture.
Sieve: This tool helps in achieving a smooth texture by removing zest and pulp from the mixture.
Blowtorch: Perfect for caramelizing sugar on top, giving you that signature brûlée effect without an oven.

Ingredients

To create the delightful Lemon Posset Brûlée, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Creamy Base

1 cup heavy cream (or heavy whipping cream)
¼ cup granulated sugar (+ more for brûlée)
1-1½ lemons (zested)
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Lemon Posset Brûlée

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons

Rinse and soak lemons thoroughly, then pat them dry.
Slice the lemons in half and scoop out the flesh using a spoon.
Insert the tip of the spoon between the skin and flesh; dig around until it releases.

Step 2: Extract Lemon Juice

Squeeze the lemon flesh by hand or use a lemon squeezer.
Use a sieve to catch seeds and pulp, setting aside the fresh lemon juice.

Step 3: Heat Cream Mixture

In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and lemon zest.
Stir consistently over medium-low heat until sugar dissolves and cream thickens slightly (about 5 minutes). Do not let it boil; it should turn faintly yellow.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Turn off heat once thickened.
Pour in lemon juice and vanilla extract while stirring continuously.

Step 5: Strain Mixture

To achieve a smooth texture, strain the mixture through a sieve to remove all zest.
Allow the cream mixture to cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Fill hollowed lemon halves evenly with the cooled mixture.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight).
Before serving, sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top and brûlée with a blowtorch until golden brown.

Enjoy this simple yet elegant Lemon Posset Brûlée as a highlight at your next gathering!

How to Serve Lemon Posset Brûlée

Lemon Posset Brûlée is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a refreshing treat, here are some serving suggestions.

Individual Serving Cups

Use small glass cups for each portion to showcase the beautiful creamy texture. Top with fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

Add a sprig of mint or basil on top for an aromatic touch. The herbs will enhance the lemon’s brightness and add an unexpected twist.

Crushed Biscuit Crust

Create a simple crust using crushed digestive biscuits mixed with melted butter. This adds a crunchy texture contrast to the creamy posset while providing extra flavor.

With Seasonal Fruits

Serve alongside slices of seasonal fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi. Their natural sweetness complements the tartness of the lemon perfectly.

Chocolate Drizzle

Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top just before serving. The rich chocolate will enhance the dessert’s elegance and create a decadent combination.

Torched Presentation

For an impressive presentation, brûlée the sugar topping just before serving. The caramelized layer adds both flavor and a satisfying crunch.

How to Perfect Lemon Posset Brûlée

To ensure your Lemon Posset Brûlée turns out flawlessly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons yield more juice and zest, enhancing the overall flavor of your posset.
Check Cream Temperature: Heat the cream gently to avoid boiling; this helps maintain its silky texture.
Sift Before Serving: Strain your mixture thoroughly to remove any zest bits for a smooth finish.
Chill Properly: Allow sufficient chilling time in the fridge—this helps achieve the right consistency and sets beautifully.
Brûlée Carefully: When caramelizing sugar, keep the torch moving to prevent burning. Aim for an even golden layer.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other citrus zests or extracts to customize your posset’s flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Posset Brûlée

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Posset Brûlée can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options you might consider.

Almond Biscotti
These crunchy Italian cookies provide a delightful contrast in texture and pair well with lemony flavors.
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of vibrant fruits like melon, pineapple, and berries adds freshness and balances sweetness.
Shortbread Cookies
Buttery shortbread offers a rich taste that complements the lightness of the posset without overpowering it.
Coconut Macaroons
Chewy coconut macaroons can provide a tropical flair that pairs nicely with citrus desserts.
Chocolate Mousse
A light chocolate mousse adds richness while contrasting nicely with the tartness of lemon posset.
Pistachio Crumble
A nutty crumble made from pistachios introduces texture and enhances flavor through its unique taste profile.
Lemon Sorbet
For an extra citrus kick, serve lemon sorbet as a refreshing palate cleanser alongside your posset.
Spiced Chai Tea
A warm cup of spiced chai tea offers comforting warmth that complements the dessert’s refreshing nature beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Posset Brûlée can be simple, but there are common errors that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

Using the wrong cream: Always opt for heavy cream or heavy whipping cream. Light creams won’t yield the same rich texture.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key! Use proper measuring tools for sugar and lemon juice to ensure perfect balance.
Allowing the mixture to boil: Boiling will ruin the creamy consistency. Keep the heat on medium-low and stir gently until thickened.
Skipping the chilling time: Patience is essential! Make sure to chill the filled lemon halves for a minimum of 1-2 hours before serving for optimal texture.
Forgetting to strain the mixture: Straining removes zest and any pulp, resulting in a smoother dessert. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Containers: Use airtight containers or cover with plastic wrap to avoid absorbing odors.

Freezing Lemon Posset Brûlée

Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Containers: Use freezer-safe containers. Allow space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Lemon Posset Brûlée

Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm in a safe dish until just heated through, about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (10-15 seconds), stirring in between, until warm.
Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Lemon Posset Brûlée, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What is Lemon Posset Brûlée?

Lemon Posset Brûlée is a deliciously creamy British dessert made with cream, sugar, lemon juice, and zest, topped with caramelized sugar.

Can I use other fruits for posset?

Yes! You can experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for different flavors while keeping the same method.

How do I achieve the perfect brûlée topping?

Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar on top and use a kitchen torch until golden brown. Practice makes perfect!

Is Lemon Posset Brûlée gluten-free?

Absolutely! This dessert is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or gluten-based ingredients.

How can I customize my Lemon Posset Brûlée?

Consider adding herbs like mint or basil for unique flavor profiles. You can also mix in fresh fruit or berries before serving!

Final Thoughts

Lemon Posset Brûlée is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a favorite among many. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or herbs to create your own twist on this classic dish!

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