Lemon Posset Brûlée

Lemon Posset Brûlée is a creamy delight that elevates traditional British desserts to new heights. This irresistible treat combines the brightness of fresh lemons with a smooth, velvety texture, making it perfect for any occasion—from dinner parties to casual family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, this dessert is both easy to prepare and impressively elegant, especially when it features that satisfying caramelized sugar topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With only 3-4 ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and hassle-free.
• No Baking Required: Say goodbye to complicated baking steps; this dessert sets in the fridge!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it straight from the lemon halves or torch the sugar for a delightful brûlée finish.
• Light and Refreshing: The bright flavor of lemons makes this dessert a perfect end to any meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Serving in lemon halves gives an elegant touch that will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Lemon Posset Brûlée, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Saucepan
• Sieve
• Lemon squeezer
• Blowtorch (for brûlée)
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Saucepan: A good-quality saucepan ensures even heating for thickening the cream without burning it.
• Sieve: Straining through a sieve helps achieve that silky texture by removing lemon zest and pulp.
• Lemon Squeezer: This tool makes extracting juice effortless, ensuring you get every drop of that delicious lemon flavor.

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

1. Rinse and soak lemons thoroughly, then pat dry.
2. Slice each lemon in half. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh by inserting the tip between the skin and flesh. Work your way around until it releases.

Step 2: Extract Lemon Juice

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and lemon zest.
2. Stir on medium-low heat until sugar dissolves and cream thickens slightly—about 5 minutes. Do not let it boil.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

1. Turn off heat and pour in fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract.
2. Stir continuously as the mixture thickens further.

Step 5: Strain for Smoothness

1. Strain the mixture through a sieve to remove all zest for a creamy texture.
2. Allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Fill hollowed lemon halves evenly with the mixture.
2. Chill in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours or overnight until set.
3. Once ready to serve, enjoy as is or sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top and brûlée using a blowtorch for that crispy finish.

Now you’re ready to indulge in this delightful Lemon Posset Brûlée!

How to Serve Lemon Posset Brûlée

Serving Lemon Posset Brûlée can elevate its delightful flavor and presentation. This dessert is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in hollowed lemon halves for a refreshing look and added citrus aroma.

With Fresh Berries

• Garnish with mixed fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and sweetness.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon.

Accompanied by Shortbread Cookies

• Serve alongside buttery shortbread cookies for a delightful textural contrast.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a richer taste and creamy texture.

Chilled in Glass Cups

• For an elegant touch, serve in clear glass cups to showcase the beautiful layers of the dessert.

How to Perfect Lemon Posset Brûlée

Achieving the perfect Lemon Posset Brûlée requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out flawlessly every time.

• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemons provide vibrant flavor and aroma, enhancing the overall taste of your posset.

• Monitor Heat Carefully: Keep the cream mixture over medium-low heat to avoid boiling, which can affect texture and flavor.

• Strain Thoroughly: Straining the mixture removes zest pieces, ensuring a smooth and creamy finish.

• Chill Properly: Allow enough chilling time in the fridge; overnight chilling can yield better results for texture.

• Brûlée Just Before Serving: Torch the sugar topping right before serving for that perfect caramelized crust and warm contrast.

• Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding different extracts or infusions, like almond or coconut, for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Posset Brûlée

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Posset Brûlée can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the posset.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses provides a savory contrast that pairs well with the sweet lemony dessert.

3. Chocolate Mousse
   Light and airy chocolate mousse offers an indulgent companion that balances citrus flavors beautifully.

4. Angel Food Cake
   This light cake serves as a fluffy base under the posset, soaking up its creamy goodness while adding texture.

5. Pistachio Biscotti
   Crunchy biscotti brings nutty flavors and a satisfying crunch that enhances each bite of lemon posset.

6. Coconut Macaroons
   Chewy coconut macaroons provide sweetness and chewiness that pairs wonderfully with lemon’s tartness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Posset Brûlée, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dessert’s texture and flavor.

• Overheating the Cream: Heating the cream too quickly can lead to curdling. Always use medium-low heat and stir continuously until just thickened.
• Not Straining the Mixture: Skipping the straining step can result in a gritty texture. Ensure you strain the mixture to achieve that smooth posset finish.
• Inadequate Chilling Time: Rushing the chilling process may leave your possets unset. Allow them to chill for at least 1-2 hours or overnight for best results.
• Using Too Much Sugar for Brûlée: Adding excessive sugar on top can lead to uneven caramelization. Use a light, even layer for perfect brûlée.
• Ignoring Zest Quality: Using old or dried-out lemon zest can dull the flavor. Always use fresh lemons for vibrant taste and aroma.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• If made in lemon halves, cover each half with plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Freezing Lemon Posset Brûlée

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month.
• Leave space at the top of containers as the dessert will expand when frozen.

Reheating Lemon Posset Brûlée

• Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C), cover with foil, and warm gently for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover lightly, and heat in short bursts of 15 seconds at low power until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed but not boiling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Posset Brûlée?

Lemon Posset Brûlée is a creamy British dessert made with lemon juice, cream, and sugar, topped with caramelized sugar for a delightful crunch.

How do I achieve a perfect brûléed top?

To get an ideal brûléed layer, sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top and use a kitchen torch to melt it until golden brown without burning.

Can I customize my Lemon Posset Brûlée?

Yes! You can infuse different flavors like vanilla or lavender, or top it with fresh berries for added sweetness and color.

How long does it take to make Lemon Posset Brûlée?

The total time is about 135 minutes, including prep time and chilling time. The actual cooking time only takes about 10 minutes!

Final Thoughts

Lemon Posset Brûlée is not only easy to make but also offers a luxurious taste experience with its creamy texture and crispy topping. Feel free to customize it with different toppings or flavors according to your preference. Give this elegant dessert a try—it’s sure to impress!

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Lemon Posset Brûlée

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (two halves per serving) 1x

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Description

Lemon Posset Brûlée is a delightful twist on a classic British dessert, combining the refreshing brightness of lemons with a rich, creamy texture. This easy-to-make treat features only a handful of ingredients and requires no baking, making it perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in. The crowning glory is the caramelized sugar topping that adds a satisfying crunch, creating an elegant presentation when served in hollowed lemon halves. Indulge in this creamy delight that balances tartness and sweetness, and impress your guests with its simplicity and sophistication.

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Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. Rinse and dry the lemons, slice them in half, and scoop out the flesh.
2. Squeeze out the juice using a lemon squeezer and strain to remove seeds and pulp.
3. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and lemon zest; stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Remove from heat and mix in fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract.
5. Strain the mixture through a sieve for smoothness, then let it cool for 10 minutes.
6. Fill the hollowed lemon halves with the mixture and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours or overnight.
7. Optionally, sprinkle sugar on top before serving and caramelize it with a blowtorch for added flair.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 lemon half (approximately 120g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 27g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 100mg