Name: Creamy Orange Posset
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (from about 2 oranges); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest (plus extra for garnish)

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This creamy orange posset is an elegant British dessert that showcases the magic of simple ingredients. Made from just cream, sugar, and fresh citrus, it transforms into a rich, silky custard with a smooth, velvety texture and a burst of bright orange flavor. A perfect make-ahead dessert, it’s ideal for spring luncheons, holiday tables, or a refined end to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Orange posset is both luxurious and effortless. With minimal ingredients and no eggs or gelatin, it sets beautifully through the natural reaction between citrus juice and cream. The vibrant citrus cuts through the richness of the cream, creating a balanced and refreshing dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s quick to prepare and sophisticated enough for entertaining.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

heavy cream
granulated sugar
fresh orange juice
fresh lemon juice
finely grated orange zest (plus extra for garnish)

directions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Stir gently until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch carefully to prevent it from boiling over.
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the orange juice, lemon juice, and orange zest. The citrus will cause the cream to begin thickening.
Pour the mixture into individual serving glasses or ramekins.
Let the possets cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set with a smooth, custard-like consistency.
Before serving, garnish each posset with a light sprinkle of orange zest for a touch of color and extra citrus aroma.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per Serving: 360 kcal

Variations

Blood Orange Posset: Substitute blood orange juice for a deeper color and more complex flavor.
Spiced Version: Infuse the cream with a cinnamon stick or star anise during heating, then remove before adding citrus.
Vanilla Twist: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a scraped vanilla bean pod for an aromatic depth.
Lime or Grapefruit: Swap out orange juice for lime or grapefruit to create other citrus flavor profiles.
Layered Dessert: Serve with a thin layer of fruit compote or crushed shortbread at the bottom of each glass for added texture.

storage/reheating

Store the possets covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These are best served chilled and should not be frozen or reheated, as the texture may become grainy or separate. Garnish just before serving to maintain freshness and visual appeal.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is highly recommended for the best flavor and natural acidity. Store-bought juice may lack the brightness and impact needed for proper setting.

Why does this dessert set without gelatin or eggs?

The acid in the citrus juice reacts with the cream’s proteins, causing the mixture to thicken naturally into a custard-like texture.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, orange posset is an ideal make-ahead dessert and needs several hours to chill and set properly.

What kind of cream should I use?

Use heavy cream with at least 36% fat. Lighter creams may not set properly and could separate.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Granulated sugar works best for the classic texture, but superfine sugar is an acceptable substitute. Avoid liquid sweeteners, as they may affect consistency.

Will the citrus curdle the cream?

No, the mixture is stabilized through controlled heating and acidity, producing a smooth and stable custard rather than curdling.

How can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that altering the sugar too much may affect the texture and flavor balance.

Can I serve this with a topping?

Yes, try whipped cream, candied citrus peel, mint leaves, or a berry compote for added elegance.

What’s the best way to zest the orange?

Use a microplane or fine grater to remove only the orange-colored part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and follow the same steps. Ensure you bring the cream to a full gentle boil and stir thoroughly when adding citrus.

Conclusion

Creamy Orange Posset is a refined and surprisingly simple dessert that delivers bright flavor with minimal effort. Its silky texture and fresh citrus notes make it a standout dish for dinner parties or special occasions. Whether you’re exploring British classics or looking for an easy yet elegant dessert, this orange posset is sure to impress with every spoonful.

Creamy Orange Posset

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This luxurious and silky orange posset is a classic British dessert made with just cream, sugar, and fresh citrus—elegant, simple, and bursting with bright orange flavor, perfect for spring or a refined finish to any meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 cups heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup fresh orange juice (from about 2 oranges)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest (plus extra for garnish)

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil over.
Remove from heat and stir in orange juice, lemon juice, and orange zest. The mixture will slightly thicken as the citrus reacts with the cream.
Pour into serving glasses or ramekins. Let cool at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set with a smooth, custard-like texture.
Garnish with a sprinkle of orange zest before serving.