Lemon Posset with Shortbread Crumbs
Lemon posset is a classic British dessert with a silky, creamy texture and a bright citrus flavor. It looks elegant, but it is incredibly easy to make.
You only need cream, sugar, and lemon juice to create a smooth dessert that sets beautifully in the fridge.
This version is served with shortbread crumbs, fresh berries, and lemon zest for a simple but refined finish.
Lemon Posset with Shortbread Crumbs
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Lemon Posset
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
For Serving
- 4 shortbread biscuits, crushed
- Fresh raspberries or blueberries
- Extra lemon zest
- Mint leaves, optional
Instructions
1. Heat the cream and sugar
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar.
Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often.
Do not let it boil aggressively.
2. Add lemon juice
Remove the pan from the heat.
Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract if using. The mixture will begin to thicken slightly as the lemon reacts with the cream.
3. Pour into glasses
Pour the mixture into small dessert glasses, ramekins, or jars.
Let them cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
4. Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
For the best texture, chill overnight.
5. Decorate and serve
Before serving, add crushed shortbread biscuits on top.
Finish with fresh berries, lemon zest, and a small mint leaf if desired.
Tips
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can taste too sharp or artificial.
Do not skip the chilling time. The dessert needs several hours to set properly.
For a smoother finish, strain the mixture before pouring it into glasses.
For a sweeter version, add a little more sugar. For a sharper citrus flavor, add extra lemon zest.
Conclusion
This lemon posset with shortbread crumbs is creamy, fresh, elegant, and very easy to prepare. It is perfect for dinner parties, afternoon desserts, summer gatherings, or any moment when you want something simple but impressive.
The cream gives richness, the lemon brings brightness, and the shortbread adds a buttery crunch that makes every spoonful feel balanced and special.