Name: Vanilla Lemon Posset
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; juice of 2 lemons; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste ((or vanilla extract)); Powdered sugar for garnish

JUMP TO RECIPE CARD

Sneak Preview: Craving a dessert that feels fancy but takes less than 20 minutes? This Vanilla Lemon Posset has a creamy, custard-like texture with a bright citrus kick. No oven, no eggs — just a simple stovetop simmer and a few hours to chill.

vanilla posset recipe in serving dishes, garnished with raspberries, sprinkled with powdered sugar

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When my family needs a dessert that feels restaurant-worthy but doesn’t heat up the kitchen, this posset is our go-to. I served it last weekend after Sunday dinner—every ramekin was scraped clean, even by the kids. It’s that good. Think crème brûlée without the torch or fuss.

This simple, old-fashioned dessert is made by combining sweetened cream with lemon juice. As it cools, the acid in the lemon naturally thickens the cream resulting in a smooth, creamy texture that’s similar to a soft custard.

Readers Say…
“Delicious and quick to prepare. Thank You“–ANA

Ingredients & Substitutions

HEAVY CREAM: Use full-fat cream for the rich, silky texture; no substitutes (Half and half won’t work.)

SUGAR: White granulated sugar works best.

LEMONS: Fresh juice only; bottled juice won’t deliver the same flavor or set properly.

VANILLA: Vanilla extract is perfect; vanilla paste, (paid link) or beans add those signature black specks and a deeper aroma.

lemon dessert garnished with raspberries — Vanilla Posset with Lemon served without powdered or Confectioners’ sugar.

How To Create a Vanilla Posset with Lemon in 4 Simple Steps

⬇️ Jump to the recipe below for exact amounts and detailed instructions.

① Boil cream and sugar
② Add lemon and vanilla
③ Strain and chill
④ Garnish and serve

Kitchen Tip: To dust powdered sugar evenly, use a small strainer and lightly tap the edge to create a delicate “snow” effect.

straining posset makes this no-bake dessert silky smooth

Final Thoughts

Vanilla Lemon Posset is one of those deceptively simple desserts that feels special without requiring much effort. Whether you serve it at a shower, summer dinner, or family get-together, expect rave reviews.

— Paula, Home Economist
Homemade Food Worth Sharing

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2 Comments

Delicious and quick to prepare. Thank You

Paula says:

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Thank you for coming back to leave a comment, Anna.

Reply

Paula Rhodes, Owner and Author Salad in a Jar

Paula Rhodes, Home Economist & Owner

As a retired home economist, I created Saladinajar.com to prove that you don’t have to be a chef to find joy in creating food worth sharing. Bread machines (used in an unconventional way), homemade yogurt, and quick microwave recipes are my favorite ways to do that.