Lemon posset recipe

Lemon possets are a timeless classic and can be enjoyed at any time of year. This simple, elegant recipe requires just three ingredients.

We think lemon possets are delicious on their own but you can serve them with biscuits on the side for some added crunch. A scattering of flaked almonds would also be a nice addition. Consider creating a toppings station and let you guests finish their dessert to their liking. 

Ingredients

• 600ml carton double cream
• 150g (5oz) vanilla caster sugar (see tip, right)
• Juice of 2 lemons, plus zested rind to use as decoration, if liked

Method

1. Pour the cream into a saucepan that's large enough to allow the cream to boil up. Add the sugar. Place the pan on the heat and bring to the boil, then boil for three mins.
2. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the lemon juice. Pour the cream through a sieve into a jug, and then pour into the ramekin dishes.
3. Leave the mixture to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4-6 hrs before serving. Garnish with lemon zest, if liked, and serve with biscuits and some lemon thyme for fragrance.

Top tip for making lemon posset

We used the vanilla sugar which is available in the 'Cooks' Ingredients' range at Waitrose stores, or online from Ocado. If you're unable to buy vanilla sugar, you can make your own by leaving a vanilla pod in a jar of caster sugar for a while, or just use ordinary caster sugar in the recipe and add a few drops of pure vanilla extract. Continue reading below for more tips that will help you when making this recipe. 

You can serve the lemon posset in small ramekins or one large serving bowl. We think individual portions look very chic and it’s much easier when serving. Food writer Jessica Ransom is a big fan of using espresso cups and loves this colourful set from Le Creuset. 

Le Creuset Stoneware Rainbow Espresso Mugs, Set of 6 - View at John Lewis

These adorable cups will brighten any corner of your kitchen. Use them for desserts or to serve espresso in. They can also double up as shot glasses if you need. Just remember they have a 100ml capacity so you only need to fill them to around a third or less!

Another classic British sweet treat is a lemon drizzle cake and our recipe is the easiest out there. You might also like a lemon pudding which is especially good when the weather is colder or our lemon creams use just three ingredients.