Lemon Posset Recipe: Mary Berry's Classic Delight

The zesty tang of lemon, the creamy richness of a posset – it's a classic combination, and few do it better than Mary Berry. This article explores a delicious Mary Berry lemon posset recipe, providing you with a step-by-step guide and tips for achieving perfect results. We'll also discuss variations and serving suggestions to elevate this simple dessert to new heights.

Understanding the Magic of Lemon Posset

Before diving into the recipe, let's understand what makes a lemon posset so special. This deceptively simple dessert relies on the magical thickening power of cream when combined with lemon juice and gentle heat. The resulting mixture is a luscious, creamy, and subtly tart dessert that's both elegant and incredibly easy to make. Mary Berry's recipe is renowned for its balance of tartness and sweetness, making it a perfect ending to any meal.

Mary Berry's Lemon Posset Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe provides a straightforward approach to making this delightful dessert.

Ingredients:

• 200ml double cream
• 100g caster sugar
• 100ml lemon juice (approximately 2-3 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra lemon flavor)

Instructions:

1. Gentle Heating: In a saucepan, gently heat the double cream and caster sugar over a low heat. Do not boil. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. This gentle warming is crucial for a smooth texture.

2. Lemon Infusion: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. If using, add the lemon zest at this stage. The mixture will begin to thicken slightly as it cools.

3. Pour and Set: Carefully pour the mixture into individual serving glasses or ramekins. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the posset to set completely.

4. Serving Suggestions: Once set, your lemon posset is ready to enjoy! For an extra touch of elegance, consider topping with:

   • Fresh raspberries
   • A sprig of mint
   • Shortbread biscuits
   • Candied lemon peel

Tips for Perfect Lemon Posset

• Quality Ingredients: Using good quality double cream and fresh lemons will significantly impact the taste and texture of your posset.

• Avoid Boiling: Boiling the cream can cause it to curdle, resulting in a grainy texture. Low and slow is the key here.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature cream and lemon juice can help them blend more smoothly.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet posset, reduce the amount of caster sugar to your liking. Conversely, add more sugar for a sweeter treat.

• Storage: Store leftover lemon posset in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Variations on a Classic: Beyond the Basic Lemon Posset

While Mary Berry's classic lemon posset is a masterpiece in itself, you can experiment with variations to suit your palate:

• Lime Posset: Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrusy twist.

• Orange Posset: Use orange juice and zest for a sweeter, more fragrant posset.

• Berry Posset: Add a puree of your favorite berries (raspberry, strawberry, or mixed berries) to the mixture for a fruity twist.

• Spiced Posset: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the cream and sugar mixture for a warming, spiced posset.

Conclusion: A Simple Dessert with Maximum Impact

Mary Berry's lemon posset recipe is a testament to the fact that simple desserts can be incredibly delicious and impressive. With just a few readily available ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a sophisticated and delightful dessert that's sure to impress your guests. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this culinary adventure – you won't be disappointed! Remember to share your creations and experiences online using relevant hashtags like #MaryBerry #LemonPosset #DessertRecipe #Baking.