Name: Mary Berry's Zesty Lemon Posset: Effortlessly Elegant Dessert
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 258 min
Ingredients: 600 ml double cream (Use high-fat cream for the best texture.); 150 g caster sugar (Avoid granulated sugar for smoother texture.); 3 lemons (Use unwaxed lemons for best flavor and zest.)

A cozy afternoon in the kitchen often leads to delightful surprises. One day, while I was experimenting with simple ingredients, I stumbled upon the divine creation that is Mary Berry’s Lemon Posset. With just three components—double cream, caster sugar, and fresh lemons—I transformed my ordinary day into an elegant culinary escapade. The moment I whisked the cream and watched it meld with zesty lemon juice, I knew I had struck gold.

This British dessert boasts a rich, silky texture that feels luxurious yet requires no baking. Perfect for impressing guests after a hearty meal or simply enjoying as a sweet treat, it cools the palate beautifully, especially after a spicy curry. Plus, its simplicity means that even novice cooks can create a restaurant-worthy dish with ease. Get ready to savor a spoonful of sunshine as we dive into the blissfully creamy world of Mary Berry’s Lemon Posset.

Why is Lemon Posset by Mary Berry a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: With just three easy-to-find ingredients, this dessert is as uncomplicated as it gets.

Effortless Elegance: Despite its simplicity, the posset offers a restaurant-style finish that will wow your guests.

Irresistibly Creamy: The rich double cream creates a silky-smooth texture that melts in your mouth, making every bite a joy.

Citrusy Delight: The fresh lemon adds the perfect zing, balancing sweetness beautifully while invigorating your taste buds.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or fancy entertaining, this dessert fits right in.

Make Ahead Magic: Prep it in advance and chill; its flavors only get better with time, saving you stress on the day of serving!

Lemon Posset by Mary Berry Ingredients

• Transform your gatherings with this delightful recipe!

For the Creamy Base

Double Cream – Essential for a rich and luxurious texture that makes the posset truly indulgent.
Caster Sugar – Sweetens beautifully; using granulated sugar can slightly alter the smoothness.

For the Zesty Flavor

Lemons – The star of the show, offering bright acidity and zest for an invigorating flavor.
Tip: Use unwaxed lemons to enhance the flavor extraction; zest before juicing for optimum juice yield.

How to Make Lemon Posset by Mary Berry

Zest and Juice: Start by zesting and juicing three fresh lemons. The zest will enhance the flavor, while the juice adds that delightful tang.
Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine 600 ml of double cream, 150 g of caster sugar, and three-quarters of the lemon zest. Stir gently to mix them well.
Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Incorporate Lemon Juice: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Gradually whisk in the freshly squeezed lemon juice to combine smoothly.
Transfer to Dishes: Carefully pour the mixture into a glass jug for easier serving, then fill your favorite serving dishes or ramekins.
Chill the Posset: Cover the dishes with cling film and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the posset is fully set.
Garnish Before Serving: Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining lemon zest on top and, if desired, garnish with fresh lemon thyme leaves for a pop of color.
Serve with Treats: Pair your lemon posset with shortbread biscuits for that perfect texture contrast!

Optional: Garnish with fresh berries for an added burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Mary Berry’s Lemon Posset ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your meal planning and save precious minutes on busy days! You can make the posset up to 3 days in advance, allowing its delightful flavors to meld beautifully. Begin by following the full recipe but stop just short of garnishing; instead, cover the individual servings with cling film and refrigerate. To maintain its silky texture, make sure the posset is well sealed to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply sprinkle the remaining lemon zest on top and add any desired garnishes just before presenting this elegant dessert. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Lemon Posset by Mary Berry

Check Cream Quality: Use high-fat double cream (minimum 36% fat) for a rich texture. Avoid low-fat alternatives, which can hinder the posset from thickening properly.
Zest Wisely: Zest the lemons before juicing to maximize the juice yield and enhance the flavor. This keeps your Lemon Posset by Mary Berry vibrant and zesty!
Watch the Heat: Stir the cream mixture continuously and watch for boiling; if it overflows, it can be messy and lose flavor.
Cool Before Mixing: Let the heated mixture cool slightly before adding lemon juice to prevent curdling. This ensures a smooth, silky posset.
Make-ahead Wonder: Prepare your posset a day in advance for the best flavor. Just remember to cover it well in the fridge to keep it fresh!

Lemon Posset by Mary Berry Variations

Embrace creativity in your kitchen by exploring these delightful twists on a classic lemon posset.

Citrus Swap: Replace lemon with lime or orange for a refreshing twist that adds unique flavors to your posset.
Berry Bliss: Stir in a splash of berry puree, like raspberry or strawberry, to create a vibrant colored dessert with an extra layer of fruity goodness.
Herb Infusion: Add a sprig of fresh mint or basil while heating the cream for a surprising herbal note that complements the citrus beautifully.
Chocolate Delight: For the chocolate lovers, swirl in a tablespoon of melted dark chocolate after mixing in the lemon juice for an indulgent treat.
Coconut Cream: Use coconut cream instead of double cream for a tropical flair that’s dairy-free and brings a silky texture to each spoonful.
Ginger Spice: Add a hint of freshly grated ginger to the cream mixture for an exciting warm kick that harmonizes with the tart lemon.
Honey Sweetness: Substitute honey for caster sugar to infuse a floral sweetness that beautifully intertwines with the citrus, while slightly altering the texture.
Chili Kick: For the adventurous eaters, a pinch of finely chopped red chili can be stirred in for a surprising heat that tickles the taste buds amidst the lemony goodness.

What to Serve with Lemon Posset by Mary Berry?

Let your taste buds dance with delight as you create an exceptional meal that rounds out this zesty, creamy dessert.

Shortbread Biscuits: The buttery crunch of shortbread perfectly contrasts the silky posset, adding a delightful texture and flavor experience.
Fresh Berries: A medley of raspberries or blueberries offers a juicy burst, enhancing the dessert’s brightness while balancing its sweetness.
Mint Tea: This soothing herbal tea complements the refreshing lemon tartness, creating a harmonious ending to your meal that uplifts the senses.
Pistachio Crumble: Adding a nutty, crunchy element elevates the posset, contrasting its creamy smoothness with rich flavor and texture.
Lemon Thyme Sprigs: Garnish your posset with fresh lemon thyme, which not only adds visual appeal but also a subtle earthy note that enriches the dish.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds extra creaminess, making each bite a luscious experience.
Coconut Sorbet: A smooth, tropical sorbet offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the posset while echoing its citrusy notes.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly enhances the celebratory feel of this dessert, cleansing the palate while bringing a joyful effervescence.

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Posset by Mary Berry

Fridge: Store your lemon posset in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. This allows time for the flavors to meld and develop further.

Freezer: If you want to prepare it further in advance, you can freeze the posset for up to 2 months. Make sure to place it in a freezer-safe container and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: Lemon posset is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just gently stir if separating occurs after thawing.

Make Ahead: For a stress-free event, you can make the lemon posset a day in advance, ensuring it is fully chilled and set before serving.

Lemon Posset by Mary Berry Recipe FAQs

What kind of lemons should I use?
I recommend using unwaxed lemons for the best flavor extraction. The wax on conventionally grown lemons can dull the zest’s vibrant taste. Zest the lemon before juicing to maximize juice yield and ensure a zesty flavor in your Lemon Posset by Mary Berry.

How should I store leftover Lemon Posset?
Store your lemon posset in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Keeping it covered helps the flavors develop even more, making your dessert all the more delightful!

Can I freeze Lemon Posset?
Absolutely! You can freeze your lemon posset for up to 2 months. Just pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. If you notice any separation after thawing, simply stir it gently before serving.

What should I do if my cream doesn’t thicken?
If your cream doesn’t thicken properly, ensure you’re using high-fat double cream (at least 36% fat). When heating, bring it to a boil then simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring continuously. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding the lemon juice. If the mixture still seems too runny, you can simmer it a bit longer to help thicken.

Is Lemon Posset safe for my pets?
While Lemon Posset is a delicious treat for humans, it’s not suitable for pets. The sugar and lemon can upset their stomachs, so it’s best to keep this treat to yourself. Additionally, always consult with your vet regarding safe food practices for your furry friends.

How can I personalize my Lemon Posset?
Very! You can swap lemon for other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a delightful twist in flavor. Alternatively, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or even a touch of berry puree for a colorful and tasty variation that will surprise your guests!