Lemon Posset Brûlée

Lemon Posset Brûlée is a delightful twist on the classic British dessert, bringing creamy goodness and a zesty kick to your table. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home. With its minimal ingredients and no baking required, this dessert is easy to prepare and will impress your guests with its elegant presentation and delicious flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With just 3-4 ingredients, this recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• No Baking Required: You can create this luscious dessert without turning on the oven, saving you time and energy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as is or torch the sugar topping for that irresistible brûlée finish—it’s great for any occasion!
• Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and lemon juice creates a rich, velvety consistency that’s hard to resist.
• Elegant Presentation: Serving it in the hollowed-out lemon halves adds a unique touch that looks stunning on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Lemon Posset Brûlée, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Saucepan
• Sieve
• Lemon squeezer
• Blowtorch (optional)
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Saucepan: Essential for heating the cream and mixing the ingredients to achieve the right consistency.
• Sieve: Helps remove lemon zest and pulp from the mixture for a smooth texture in your dessert.
• Lemon squeezer: Makes extracting juice easier while ensuring you get every drop from your lemons.
• Blowtorch (optional): Adds that perfect caramelized sugar layer on top for an impressive brûlée finish.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Lemon Posset Brûlée, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cream Mixture:

• 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 them dry.
2. Slice each lemon in half. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh by inserting the tip between the skin and flesh. Work your way around until it releases from the lemon.

Step 2: Extract Lemon Juice

1. Squeeze the lemon flesh by hand or use a lemon squeezer to get fresh juice.
2. Use a sieve to catch any seeds or pulp. Set aside the juice.

Step 3: Heat the Cream Mixture

1. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and lemon zest.
2. Stir consistently over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves and the cream thickens slightly—about 5 minutes. The cream should turn a faint yellow but should not boil.

Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Juice and Vanilla

1. Turn off the heat once thickened.
2. Pour in fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract while stirring continuously for further thickening.

Step 5: Strain for Smoothness

1. To achieve a creamy texture, strain the mixture through a sieve to remove all zest.
2. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Chill in Lemon Halves

1. Fill each hollowed-out lemon half evenly with the cooled cream mixture.
2. Chill in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours or overnight until set.

Step 7: Serve Your Dessert

1. Once set, you can enjoy your Lemon Posset Brûlée as is or sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top before torching it with a blowtorch for that classic brûlée finish!

How to Serve Lemon Posset Brûlée

Lemon Posset Brûlée is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its appeal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to impress your guests and elevate the experience.

Individual Serving Cups

• Use small cups or ramekins for individual portions. This adds an elegant touch and makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own serving.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Their tartness complements the creamy lemon posset perfectly.

Mint Leaves

• Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for a pop of color and freshness. It also provides a refreshing aroma with each bite.

Shortbread Cookies

• Serve alongside buttery shortbread cookies. Their crumbly texture pairs nicely with the smoothness of the posset.

Citrus Zest Sprinkle

• For an extra zing, sprinkle some finely grated lemon zest on top just before serving. This enhances the citrus flavor and adds visual appeal.

Caramel Sauce Drizzle

• Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top for a sweet contrast. This creates a delicious mix of flavors and textures.

How to Perfect Lemon Posset Brûlée

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons will provide the best flavor and zest. Avoid bottled juices for optimal taste.
• Monitor Heat Carefully: Keep the heat at medium-low while heating cream. This prevents boiling, which can affect the texture.
• Chill Properly: Make sure you chill the possets long enough to set properly. They should be firm yet creamy when ready to serve.
• Strain Thoroughly: Straining your mixture removes any zest or solids, ensuring a smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
• Brûlée Just Before Serving: For the best experience, caramelize the sugar just before serving to maintain its crunchiness.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other flavorings like lavender or cardamom for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Posset Brûlée

Pairing your Lemon Posset Brûlée with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the posset.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon flavor.

3. Granola Clusters
   Crunchy granola clusters provide texture contrast and can be sprinkled over the posset for added crunch.

4. Chocolate Mousse
   Light chocolate mousse offers a rich counterpart to lemon’s brightness while still being indulgent.

5. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats bring tropical flair that harmonizes well with lemon’s zesty notes.

6. Coffee or Espresso
   A cup of rich coffee or espresso serves as a perfect palate cleanser after enjoying the sweetness of dessert.

7. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside adds creaminess that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.

8. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy almond biscotti not only provides texture but also adds nutty notes that work well with lemon desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Posset Brûlée can be simple, but there are common mistakes that might hinder your success.

• Using too much heat: Cooking the cream mixture on high heat can cause it to boil. This will ruin the texture and flavor. Always use medium-low heat and stir consistently.
• Not straining the mixture: Skipping the straining step means you may end up with bits of lemon zest in your dessert, affecting its smoothness. Always strain for a creamy texture.
• Overfilling lemon halves: If you fill the lemon halves too much, it may overflow while chilling. Aim for a level fill to avoid messy spills.
• Skipping chill time: Not allowing enough time for the dessert to set in the refrigerator can lead to a runny posset. Chill for at least 1-2 hours or overnight for best results.
• Burning the sugar topping: When brûléeing, using too high heat can burn the sugar instead of caramelizing it. Use a steady hand with your torch to achieve a perfect golden crust.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers or cover with plastic wrap.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Posset Brûlée

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Lemon Posset Brûlée

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and warm gently until just heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat, stirring constantly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Lemon Posset Brûlée.

How long does Lemon Posset Brûlée last?

Lemon Posset Brûlée lasts about 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Lemon Posset Brûlée?

Absolutely! You can add different citrus zests or flavors like vanilla bean or coconut for variation.

Is Lemon Posset Brûlée suitable for special diets?

Yes! This recipe is egg-free, gluten-free, and easy to make without baking.

What’s the best way to serve Lemon Posset Brûlée?

Serve chilled, with a crispy brûléed sugar topping right before serving for a delightful contrast in textures!

Final Thoughts

Lemon Posset Brûlée is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its rich creaminess combined with zesty lemon makes it a standout dessert. Feel free to customize it with different flavors or toppings. Give this easy recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Lemon Posset Brûlée

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon Posset Brûlée is an exquisite dessert that beautifully marries the rich creaminess of heavy cream with the bright, zesty flavors of fresh lemons. This easy-to-make, no-bake treat is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a silky-smooth posset served elegantly in hollowed lemon halves. The addition of a caramelized sugar topping brings a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the velvety filling. Refreshing and indulgent, this Lemon Posset Brûlée is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for brûlée)
• Zest of 1–1½ lemons
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare lemons by slicing them in half and scooping out the flesh.
2. Extract fresh lemon juice and strain out seeds and pulp.
3. In a saucepan, heat heavy cream, sugar, and lemon zest over medium-low heat until thickened.
4. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract.
5. Strain mixture to ensure smooth texture; cool for 10 minutes.
6. Fill hollowed lemon halves with the cream mixture and chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours or overnight until set.
7. Sprinkle sugar on top before serving and caramelize with a blowtorch if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-bake
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 lemon half (approximately 100g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 90mg