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Lemon Possets in Lemon Shells Recipe

4.6 from 95 reviews

Lemon Possets in Lemon Shells are a refreshing and elegant no-bake dessert featuring a smooth, creamy lemon custard made from heavy cream, sugar, and fresh lemon juice, all set inside hollowed lemon halves for a delightful citrus presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

For 6 Lemon Halves

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from 3 lemons)
  • 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest
  • A pinch of salt

For 12 Lemon Halves

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons lemon juice (from 6 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lemons: Wash and slice the lemons lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the lemon segments using a spoon. Reserve the lemon halves for use as serving vessels later.
  2. Extract the juice: Collect the scooped-out lemon segments and press them against a fine mesh strainer to extract as much juice as possible, setting the juice aside.
  3. Make the custard base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently to dissolve the sugar and prevent scorching.
  4. Simmer the cream mixture: Heat the mixture until it reaches a light simmer—avoid boiling. Use a measuring cup to gauge the volume (1 cup for 6 lemons recipe, 2 cups for 12 lemons recipe) to know when it is ready.
  5. Add the lemon juice: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the freshly pressed lemon juice until well combined.
  6. Cool and strain: Allow the mixture to cool for 15-20 minutes until a light skin forms on top. Then strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the lemon zest for a smooth custard.
  7. Fill the lemon shells: Pour the strained lemon posset mixture into each hollowed lemon half, filling to the top.
  8. Chill to set: Refrigerate the filled lemon halves for 3-4 hours until the possets have firmly set. Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.

Notes

  • Ensure not to boil the cream mixture as it can curdle or lose its silkiness.
  • Use fresh lemons for the best citrus flavor and juice extraction.
  • Straining the posset mixture removes zest bits for a smooth texture.
  • Lemon halves make an attractive and eco-friendly serving option.
  • This dessert should be kept refrigerated and consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Keywords: lemon posset, lemon dessert, no-bake dessert, creamy lemon custard, citrus posset, lemon shells, easy lemon dessert