Lemon Posset Brûlée Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that feels like sunshine in a spoon, you absolutely must try this vibrant and creamy Lemon Posset Brûlée. This exquisite dessert combines the silky smoothness of a traditional posset with the dramatic caramelized sugar top of a brûlée, creating a delightful contrast between tangy citrus and sweet crunch. With just a handful of simple ingredients, the Lemon Posset Brûlée delivers layers of fresh lemon flavor and velvety texture that will have you coming back for seconds, whether served in elegant lemon halves or classic small ramekins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making your Lemon Posset Brûlée unforgettable. Each component plays a crucial role, from bringing luscious creaminess and sweetness to imparting bright, natural lemon zest flavor and that cozy vanilla warmth.

• Heavy cream: Use 1 cup for that rich, luscious base that thickens beautifully without needing eggs.
• Granulated sugar: ¼ cup plus extra for the brûlée topping, providing sweetness and the signature crunchy crust.
• Lemon zest: From 1 to 1½ lemons, this gives an aromatic citrus punch that elevates the posset’s flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice: 3 tablespoons for the perfect balance of tartness and brightness.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon to add a subtle warmth that rounds out the citrus notes beautifully.

How to Make Lemon Posset Brûlée

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons

First things first, rinse your lemons thoroughly and pat them dry. Then carefully slice them in half and scoop out the flesh using a spoon, making sure to separate the juice from seeds and pulp. This fresh juice will bring an authentic zing to your posset, so take your time extracting it well.

Step 2: Infuse Cream with Lemon Zest and Sugar

Combine the heavy cream, sugar, and lemon zest in a large saucepan. Gently heat over medium-low, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the cream thickens slightly. You’ll notice it take on a subtle yellow hue — be careful not to let it boil, as this ensures the texture stays silky smooth.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice and Vanilla

Turn off the heat, then stir in the fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract. As the cream cools, it will thicken further, capturing that perfect balance of rich cream and refreshing citrus.

Step 4: Strain and Cool

For an ultra-smooth finish, strain the mixture to remove zest pieces. Let the cream cool for about 10 minutes before moving on — patience here leads to a delightfully creamy texture.

Step 5: Fill and Chill

Now pour the luscious mixture into hollowed lemon halves or your choice of serving dishes. Refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the Lemon Posset Brûlée to set firmly.

Step 6: Brûlée the Sugar

Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar atop each posset and caramelize it using a culinary blowtorch. This caramelized crust adds a satisfying crackle and contrast to the smooth, tangy cream beneath.

How to Serve Lemon Posset Brûlée

Garnishes

Enhance your Lemon Posset Brûlée presentation with fresh herbs like a sprig of mint or a twist of lemon peel for visual appeal and an extra aroma punch. Thin slices of candied lemon or a few fresh berries also pair wonderfully, adding color and a slight sweetness that complements the tartness.

Side Dishes

This dessert is quite rich, so it pairs best with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad or a tangy fruit compote. A simple berry salad or a few sprigs of lightly dressed arugula can balance the creaminess perfectly without overpowering the taste.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Lemon Posset Brûlée in quirky lemon halves for a fun, natural container that’s guaranteed to impress guests. Alternatively, try elegant glass ramekins or clear jars layered with crushed shortbread or biscotti for texture contrast. Garnishing with edible flowers can also take this dessert to a whole new level of sophistication.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Lemon Posset Brûlée, keep any leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days — giving you a delightful treat whenever you crave it.

Freezing

While possets have a delicate texture that doesn’t always fare well frozen, you can freeze them if necessary. Transfer into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw slowly in the fridge to maintain as much creaminess as possible. Just be aware the texture may be slightly altered.

Reheating

Enjoy Lemon Posset Brûlée cold, as reheating will break down its delicate structure and melt the brûlée topping. If you prefer a warmer dessert, try gently torching the sugar crust just before serving, but keep the posset itself straight from the fridge for the ideal creamy consistency.

FAQs

What is a posset?

A posset is a traditional British dessert made from cream, sugar, and citrus juice that thickens as it cools, creating a silky, tangy custard without eggs. The Lemon Posset Brûlée is a delicious twist by adding a brûléed sugar topping.

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?

Absolutely! While lemon provides a classic bright flavor, you can experiment with oranges, limes, or even blood oranges for a different but equally refreshing posset. Just adjust the amount of juice to taste.

Do I need a blowtorch to make the brûlée?

A culinary blowtorch is ideal for achieving the perfect caramelized sugar crust, but if you don’t have one, you can try placing the posset briefly under a hot broiler. Watch it carefully to avoid burning.

Is Lemon Posset Brûlée dairy-free or vegan?

Traditional recipes call for heavy cream, so it’s not dairy-free or vegan. However, you may experiment with coconut cream substitutes and alternative sweeteners, though results may vary in texture and flavor.

How long does it take for the posset to set?

The posset usually needs at least 1 to 2 hours in the refrigerator to set properly, but for the best texture and flavor, chilling overnight is recommended.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way the Lemon Posset Brûlée marries the bright zest and tart lemon juice with the richness of cream and the irresistible crunch of caramelized sugar. It’s a dessert that feels both classy and comforting, perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging on your own. Once you try making this beautiful dessert, you’ll see why it’s become a beloved favorite in my kitchen — and I’m sure it will be in yours too!

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