Lemon posset is a classic British dessert known for its smooth, creamy texture and vibrant citrus flavor. With just three simple ingredients—cream, sugar, and lemon—this elegant treat is incredibly easy to make yet delivers a luxurious finish to any meal. Its rich yet refreshing profile makes it perfect for dinner parties, afternoon tea, or a light summer dessert.

Mary Berry lemon posset recipe follows the traditional method, creating a silky, tangy custard without the need for eggs or gelatin. The acidity from the lemon naturally thickens the cream, resulting in a delightfully indulgent texture. If you love quick, no-bake desserts that impress with minimal effort, this lemon posset is a must-try!

Recipe at a Glance

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Dietary Suitability: Vegetarian, gluten-free

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this simple yet decadent lemon posset, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups (500ml) heavy cream
⅔ cup (130g) granulated sugar
2 lemons (zested and juiced)

Substitutes and Optional Ingredients

Lemon substitute: Lime juice can be used for a slightly different citrus profile.
Sweetener alternative: You can use caster sugar for a finer texture or a sugar alternative like erythritol, though this may slightly alter the consistency.
Additional flavor: A drop of vanilla extract can add depth to the flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need for Lemon Posset

Making lemon posset requires minimal equipment:

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Fine grater or zester
Juicer
Measuring cups and spoons
Heatproof serving glasses or ramekins

Mary Berry Lemon Posset Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Time needed: 5 minutes

Follow these easy steps to create a perfectly smooth and creamy lemon posset:

Heat the cream and sugar
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Add the lemon zest and juice
Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix well to incorporate. The acidity will start thickening the mixture naturally.
Strain the mixture
For an ultra-smooth posset, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any zest or curdled bits.
Pour into serving glasses
Divide the mixture evenly among ramekins or serving glasses. Allow them to cool at room temperature for 15 minutes before refrigerating.
Chill until set
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the posset is fully set and has a velvety texture.
Serve and garnish
Before serving, optionally garnish with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a few mint leaves.

Step-Specific Tips or Notes

Simmering, not boiling: Keep the heat moderate—boiling can cause the cream to curdle.
Chill time matters: Letting it set for at least 3 hours ensures the perfect creamy consistency.
Straining is optional: If you enjoy a slightly textured dessert with zest, you can skip this step.

Nutrition Facts & Dietary Info

Each recipe yields 4 servings, with the following nutritional breakdown per serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Carbohydrates	32g
Fat	35g
Protein	2g
Sugar	30g

Dietary notes: This dessert is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian but contains dairy.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Easy and foolproof. With just three ingredients and a simple stovetop method, anyone can make this posset successfully.
Elegant and versatile. It’s perfect for fancy dinner parties or a quick, satisfying treat at home.
Naturally thickened. No need for eggs or gelatin—the lemon does all the work!

Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Posset

Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice lacks the same brightness and fresh citrus aroma.
Don’t overheat the cream. A gentle simmer is all you need to dissolve the sugar and create a smooth texture.
Chill for the right time. A minimum of 3 hours is needed for the posset to fully set, but overnight chilling enhances the texture even more.

Fun Variations & Ingredient Swaps

Berry-infused posset. Add a few crushed raspberries or blueberries before chilling for a fruity twist.
Chocolate citrus posset. Stir in a touch of white chocolate for a creamier, indulgent version.
Herbal notes. Infuse the cream with fresh basil or thyme for a subtle herbal undertone.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Skipping the straining step. This helps remove any zest bits or curdled parts, ensuring a perfectly smooth texture.
Boiling too aggressively. A rolling boil can cause the cream to split or develop a grainy texture. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
Not chilling long enough. The posset won’t set properly if it’s not given enough time in the fridge.

How to Store & Serve Lemon Posset

Storing

Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While not recommended, lemon posset can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Serving

Best served chilled: The colder, the better for a firm yet creamy texture.
Pairing suggestions: Serve with shortbread biscuits, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture.

Mary Berry Lemon Posset Recipe FAQs

Can I make lemon posset ahead of time?

Yes! Lemon posset is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until ready to serve.

Why did my lemon posset not set?

If your posset didn’t set, it’s likely due to not simmering the cream long enough. The heat helps dissolve the sugar properly and ensures the cream reacts correctly with the lemon juice.

Can I make lemon posset dairy-free?

Yes, but the texture will change. You can use full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy cream, but it won’t set as firmly as the traditional version.

Conclusion

Mary Berry lemon posset recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its creamy, citrusy richness and effortless preparation, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for guests or treating yourself, this no-fuss recipe delivers elegant results every time. Try it once, and it may just become your new favorite go-to dessert!