Lemon Posset Brûlée is a delightful twist on the classic British dessert that everyone will love! This creamy treat is not only simple to make with just a handful of ingredients, but it also offers a stunning presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this dessert is sure to impress. With its refreshing lemon flavor and caramelized brûlée topping, Lemon Posset Brûlée combines elegance with ease.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With only 3-4 ingredients and no baking involved, this dessert can be whipped up in no time.
- Versatile Presentation: Serve it in hollowed lemon halves for a fun and elegant touch that will wow your guests.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of fresh lemons and creamy texture creates a refreshing yet indulgent experience.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for dinner parties, celebrations, or even a cozy night in—this dessert fits all scenarios.
- Quick Preparation: Set aside just a few minutes to prepare; the chilling time does the rest!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing Lemon Posset Brûlée easier and more enjoyable. Gather your essentials before starting this delightful recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Saucepan
- Sieve
- Lemon squeezer
- Blowtorch (for brûlée)
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Saucepan: Essential for heating the cream and allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Sieve: Helps achieve a smooth texture by removing zest from the mixture.
- Lemon squeezer: Makes extracting juice effortless while ensuring you get every drop of flavor.

Ingredients
Lemon Posset Brûlée is the classic creamy British dessert but BETTER! Made with only 3-4 ingredients, no eggs or baking required, and torched perfect with caramelized sugar you know we all love to crack!
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 dry.
- Slice lemons into halves. Scoop out the flesh using a spoon by inserting the tip between the skin and flesh. Carefully dig in until it releases from the lemon.
Step 2: Extract Lemon Juice
- Squeeze the lemon flesh by hand or use a lemon squeezer to gather juice.
- Use a sieve to catch any seeds or pulp. Set aside the fresh lemon juice.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- 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 (around 5 minutes). The cream should turn faint yellow; do not let it boil.
Step 4: Add Flavorings
- Turn off heat once thickened.
- Pour in lemon juice and vanilla extract while stirring continuously to further thicken the mixture.
Step 5: Strain Mixture
- Strain the mixture through a sieve into another bowl to remove zest for an ultra-smooth texture.
- Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Fill each hollowed lemon half evenly with the cooled mixture.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours or overnight until set.
- When ready to serve, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar on top and caramelize using a blowtorch for that perfect brûlée finish.
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Posset Brûlée as an elegant end to any meal!
How to Serve Lemon Posset Brûlée
Lemon Posset Brûlée is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your experience and impress your guests.
Individual Cups
- Serve the posset in small cups or ramekins for an elegant presentation. This allows each guest to have their own portion while showcasing the beautiful layers.
Fresh Berries
- Top with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. The tartness of the berries complements the creamy lemon posset beautifully.
Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess. This addition brings a rich texture that pairs well with the tangy lemon flavor.
Mint Leaves
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch. The mint adds a pop of color and enhances the overall aroma of the dessert.
Shortbread Cookies
- Serve alongside buttery shortbread cookies for a crunchy contrast. The cookies can be dipped into the posset, making every bite delightful.
Chocolate Shavings
- Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings over the top for an indulgent twist. The bitterness of dark chocolate balances perfectly with the sweetness of the dessert.
How to Perfect Lemon Posset Brûlée
Creating the perfect Lemon Posset Brûlée is simple if you follow these tips to ensure a smooth and creamy texture every time.
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Use fresh lemons – Fresh lemons provide vibrant flavor and zest that enhance your dessert significantly. Avoid bottled lemon juice for the best results.
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Monitor heat carefully – Keep an eye on your cream mixture while heating. It should be warmed through but never boiled, as boiling can affect texture.
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Strain thoroughly – Straining your mixture ensures it’s silky smooth by removing any zest or lumps. This step is crucial for achieving that velvety consistency.
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Chill adequately – Allow enough time for chilling in the fridge, ideally overnight. This helps the flavors meld and ensures it sets properly.
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Caramelize evenly – When brûléeing, use an even motion with your blowtorch to caramelize sugar uniformly. This will create a perfect crust that’s satisfying to crack.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Posset Brûlée
Pairing side dishes with Lemon Posset Brûlée can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:
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Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the rich posset.
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Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses provides a savory contrast that complements the sweetness of the posset.
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Granola – Crunchy granola sprinkled on top adds texture and makes for a delightful combination with creamy desserts.
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Coconut Macaroons – These chewy treats are naturally sweet and add a tropical touch that pairs nicely with lemon flavors.
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Pistachio Cookies – Nutty pistachio cookies offer crunch and flavor variety, enhancing your overall dessert experience.
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Almond Biscotti – Crispy almond biscotti are perfect for dipping into the posset, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Lemon Posset Brûlée is simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dessert.
- Overheating the Cream: Heating the cream too much can cause it to boil, which you want to avoid. Always use medium-low heat and stir consistently until just thickened.
- Skipping the Straining Step: Not straining the mixture means zest can ruin the smooth texture. Use a sieve to remove all zest for a perfect silky posset.
- Not Chilling Long Enough: If you don’t chill the posset long enough, it won’t set properly. Aim for at least 1-2 hours in the fridge, or overnight for best results.
- Using Fresh Lemons: Using old or dried-out lemons will affect the flavor. Always pick fresh, juicy lemons for the best taste in your Lemon Posset Brûlée.
- Inconsistent Sugar Layer for Brûlée: Uneven sugar on top makes it hard to caramelize. Ensure an even layer of sugar before torching for a perfect crispy topping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Lemon Posset Brûlée
- Freeze in individual servings or portions for up to 1 month.
- Use freezer-safe containers or silicone molds.
Reheating Lemon Posset Brûlée
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a baking dish with water for gentle warming.
- Microwave: Reheat in short bursts of 15 seconds at low power; avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat while stirring continuously until desired temperature is reached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Lemon Posset Brûlée.
What is Lemon Posset Brûlée?
Lemon Posset Brûlée is a creamy British dessert made with heavy cream, sugar, and lemon juice, topped with a caramelized sugar layer.
Can I substitute ingredients in Lemon Posset Brûlée?
Yes! You can use different citrus fruits like lime or orange instead of lemon for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
How do I know when my Lemon Posset Brûlée is set?
The posset should be firm but still slightly wobbly when you gently shake it after chilling.
Can I use non-dairy alternatives for this recipe?
Yes! You can try using coconut cream or almond milk-based cream as alternatives while adjusting sugar based on sweetness.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Posset Brûlée is an elegant dessert that’s easy to make and delightful to serve. Its creamy texture paired with the crispy brûléed top makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize with different citrus flavors or toppings like berries. Try it today!
Lemon Posset Brûlée
Lemon Posset Brûlée is a refreshing twist on the classic British dessert that combines creamy lemon custard with a delightful caramelized sugar crust. This no-bake treat is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal time. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in, this elegant dessert will impress your guests with its bright flavor and stunning presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (+ more for brûlée)
- Zest of 1–1½ lemons
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Rinse lemons, slice them in half, and scoop out the flesh, leaving hollow halves.
- Squeeze the lemon flesh to extract juice and strain it to remove seeds.
- In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and lemon zest; warm over medium-low heat until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract until combined.
- Strain the mixture into another bowl to ensure a smooth texture; let cool for 10 minutes.
- Fill the hollowed lemon halves with the cooled mixture and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours or overnight until set.
- Before serving, sprinkle with granulated sugar and caramelize using a blowtorch for that signature brûlée finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lemon half (90g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg




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