Vanilla Posset with Lemon: Elegant No-Bake Dessert Recipe
Sneak Preview: Want a sweet treat that’s easy and elegant? This Vanilla Posset with Lemon is a no-bake dessert requiring just four basic ingredients: heavy cream, sugar, lemon, and vanilla. No oven or fancy tools required!

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This posset recipe is a delightful mix of custard-like richness (think crème brûlée without the crunchy top) and ice cream vibes (but no freezing needed). All it takes is heating, straining, and chilling.
Top Reasons to Try This Recipe
- Ideal for any occasion: Perfect after heavy meals, ladies’ luncheons, or summer holidays.
- Customizable garnishes: Fresh fruit, mint, or powdered sugar let you personalize each serving.
- Effortless indulgence: No ice cream maker, oven, or kitchen torch required. Great no-bake dessert for a hot summer day.
Last weekend, this recipe was the star of our family dinner—kids and adults alike polished it off!
Ingredients and Substitutions
Use the best quality and freshest ingredients you can find!
- HEAVY CREAM:
- Key to luxurious texture
- No substitutes
- SUGAR:
- Stick with white granulated sugar
- LEMONS:
- Fresh lemons are non-negotiable.
- Bottled juice won’t deliver that vibrant zest.
- VANILLA:
- Vanilla extract–most convenient
- Upgrade to vanilla bean paste or pods for those iconic black specks.
- Vanilla paste, (paid link) speckled with those tiny black gems, offers a hassle-free alternative to scraping and splitting vanilla beans.

How To Create a Vanilla Posset with Lemon in 4 Simple Steps
- Boil Cream and Sugar: In a small saucepan, gently boil the cream and sugar until slightly thickened.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in vanilla and fresh lemon juice for a bright, zesty touch.
- Strain and Pour: Strain the mixture for silky smoothness and pour into serving dishes. Chill until set.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with berries, mint, or powdered sugar for a finishing flourish.
📌 Kitchen Tip 📌To dust powdered sugar evenly, use a small strainer and lightly tap the edge to create a delicate “snow” effect.

FAQ About Vanilla Posset
What is a posset made of?
A posset combines cream, sugar, and an acidic ingredient (like lemon) to create a silky, pudding-like texture.
What sets a posset?
The acidity of the lemon juice thickens the cream as it cools, giving it its luscious, custard-like consistency.
Can I make a posset ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and keep it chilled until ready to serve.
Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?
No, heavy cream is essential for achieving a rich, thick texture.
Can I substitute vanilla extract for the vanilla bean?
Absolutely. While vanilla beans add visual appeal, extract works perfectly.
Parting thoughts: Vanilla Posset with Lemon is a versatile dessert that’s as easy as it is indulgent. Whether it’s for a ladies’ luncheon or a fancy family dinner, it’s sure to impress.
Looking for more cool desserts? Check out these recipes:
Enjoy your posset adventures! 🥄
Need help troubleshooting? Email me: Paula at saladinajar.com—photos welcome!
Paula Rhodes, owner
As a retired home economist, I created Saladinajar.com to share my belief that you don’t have to be a chef to find joy in creating homemade food worth sharing. Bread machines (used in an unconventional way), homemade yogurt, and quick microwave recipes are my specialty.