This zesty lemon posset is the perfect make-ahead dessert for summer. Light, silky, and packed with fresh citrus flavour, it’s topped with a colourful mix of summer fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for extra freshness and a pop of colour. Served with buttery shortbread biscuits on the side, it’s a simple yet elegant dessert that’s guaranteed to impress, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just fancy a sweet treat to end your meal.
Love lemony desserts? Don’t miss our No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake – another easy, zesty treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Lemon Posset with Summer Fruits & Shortbread
Ingredients
- 600 ml double cream
- 150 g caster sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 75 ml fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
- 150 g mixed summer berries e.g., strawberries, raspberries, blueberries
- Shortbread biscuits shop-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Pour the double cream into a saucepan, add the caster sugar and lemon zest, and heat gently over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then bring to a simmer. Let it bubble gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring now and then.Tip: I always use a fine zester like this to get loads of bright lemon flavour without the bitter pith.
- Take the pan off the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Mix well – you’ll see the cream start to thicken slightly.
- Pour the mixture into 4 small glasses or ramekins like these. Leave to cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours (or overnight) until set.Tip: Strain through a fine mesh sieve like this if you want a super smooth texture.
- Just before serving, scatter fresh summer berries over each posset. Add a couple of shortbread biscuits on the side and enjoy!
Top Tips for this Lemon Posset Recipe
• Make ahead: Lemon posset is ideal for making the day before – it actually tastes even better once it’s had time to fully chill and set.
• Use fresh lemons: Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same fresh, zesty flavour. Go for freshly squeezed every time for the best results.
• Strain for smoothness: For an ultra-smooth finish, strain the posset mixture through a fine sieve before pouring into glasses.
• Mix up the fruits: Swap in whatever berries are in season – blackberries, redcurrants, or sliced peaches all work beautifully too.