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Simple Orange Posset Dessert

Featured in Sweet Endings and Treats.

Orange Posset offers a delightfully simple approach to elegant dessert-making, requiring just four everyday ingredients: heavy cream, sugar, orange zest, and juice. This traditional British dessert transforms through a bit of kitchen chemistry, where the acid from the citrus helps create a silky smooth custard without any eggs. The magic happens as the cream reduces and combines with the orange juice, setting into a luxuriously creamy texture with bright citrus notes. Perfect for making ahead, this dessert requires minimal active time but delivers impressive results that taste like they came from a fine dining kitchen.
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Updated on Fri, 24 Jan 2025 08:34:50 GMT
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Elegant orange posset recipe with a tangy citrus flavor and a luxurious texture. Pin it
Elegant orange posset recipe with a tangy citrus flavor and a luxurious texture. | tasteofcook.com

Transform four simple ingredients - cream, sugar, orange zest, and juice - into a luxurious, silky dessert with this Orange Posset recipe. Perfectly balancing rich creaminess with bright citrus notes, this elegant yet simple treat will impress at any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.

Originating as a medieval British drink, the posset has evolved into a sophisticated dessert beloved for its simplicity and elegance. My version features orange for a bright, zesty twist, inspired by a dinner party success that turned a last-minute idea into a show-stopping favorite.

Essential Ingredients and Tips

  • Heavy Cream: Must be full-fat for proper setting; avoid substitutes.
  • Oranges: Fresh, unwaxed oranges provide vibrant zest and juice.
  • Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is ideal for dissolving evenly.
  • Zesting Tool: Use a microplane for fine zest without bitterness.
  • Ramekins: Straight-sided ramekins create a polished presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Cream
Combine cream, sugar, and orange zest in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and cream reduces slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 2: Add Orange Juice
Remove from heat and slowly whisk in freshly squeezed orange juice. The mixture will begin to thicken as you stir.
Step 3: Strain and Pour
Strain the mixture to remove zest for a smooth texture. Pour evenly into ramekins and let cool at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Chill to Set
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, uncovered, until fully set. Cover only after chilling to prevent condensation.
meriemrecipes_STYLE_Close-up_Sho - 2025-01-23T183557.975 Pin it
meriemrecipes_STYLE_Close-up_Sho - 2025-01-23T183557.975 | tasteofcook.com

Serve your Orange Posset in elegant ramekins or vintage glasses, garnished with sugared orange peel, fresh mint leaves, or a sprinkle of candied ginger. This simple yet sophisticated dessert will delight both the eyes and the palate.

Creamy orange posset with a rich, silky texture and refreshing citrus flavor. Pin it
Creamy orange posset with a rich, silky texture and refreshing citrus flavor. | tasteofcook.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why does my posset need to reduce to exactly 2 cups?
The precise measurement ensures the right consistency - too much liquid won't set properly, while too little will make it too firm.
→ Can I use other citrus fruits instead of orange?
Yes, lemon, lime, or grapefruit can be substituted. Just maintain the same proportions of juice to cream.
→ Why do I need to strain the mixture?
Straining removes the orange zest and any cooked bits, ensuring a perfectly smooth, silky texture.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, posset can be made up to 2 days ahead. Cover after it sets to prevent a skin from forming.
→ Why doesn't this custard need eggs?
The acid from the orange juice helps set the cream naturally, creating a custard-like texture without eggs.

Easy Creamy Orange Posset

A silky smooth orange custard dessert made with just cream, sugar, and fresh oranges - no eggs needed for this bright and creamy treat.

Prep Time
40 Minutes
Cook Time
12 Minutes
Total Time
52 Minutes


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: British

Yield: 6 Servings (6 possets)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Base Ingredients

01 2 cups heavy cream
02 ⅔ cup granulated sugar
03 2 tablespoons orange zest (from one orange)
04 6 tablespoons orange juice

Instructions

Step 01

Set aside a 2-cup measuring cup and 6 small ramekins or dessert cups.

Step 02

Combine cream, sugar, and orange zest in a medium saucepan. Bring to boil over medium heat, then reduce to simmer. Cook 8-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until mixture reduces to exactly 2 cups.

Step 03

Pour reduced mixture into measuring cup and stir in orange juice. Let cool for 20 minutes.

Step 04

Strain mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, then divide evenly among ramekins. Refrigerate uncovered for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.

Step 05

Top with additional orange zest if desired and serve chilled.

Notes

  1. Leave uncovered while setting in fridge for 3-4 hours
  2. Cover with plastic wrap after setting to prevent skin formation
  3. Best consumed within 2 days

Tools You'll Need

  • Medium saucepan
  • Spatula
  • Fine mesh sieve
  • 2-cup liquid measuring cup
  • 6 small ramekins or dessert cups

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (heavy cream)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 364
  • Total Fat: 29 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 27 g
  • Protein: 2 g