This creamy lemon dessert is a refreshing and indulgent treat that perfectly balances the tanginess of fresh lemons with the richness of heavy cream. It’s simple to make, yet elegant enough for any occasion. With its smooth texture and bright citrus flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite dessert for any lemon lover!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream (480 ml)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons, 60 ml)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh berries (for garnish, optional)
- Whipped cream (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is just about to simmer.
- Add Lemon: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest until fully combined.
- Cool the Mixture: Allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Pour into Cups: Pour the cooled lemon cream mixture into serving cups or ramekins.
- Chill: Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set. For best results, let it chill overnight.
- Garnish and Serve: Once set, remove from the refrigerator and garnish with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy your creamy, tangy lemon dessert!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture.
- Pair with a light lemon or berry sorbet on the side.
- Serve with shortbread cookies or graham crackers for a crunchy contrast.
- Top with crushed pistachios for a nutty flavor.
- Serve with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
Cooking Tips
- Be sure to stir the mixture constantly while heating to prevent the cream from scorching.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have ramekins, small bowls or glass jars work well too.
- For an extra creamy texture, use full-fat heavy cream.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in healthy fats from heavy cream.
- Good source of vitamin C from fresh lemon juice.
- Provides calcium and other essential nutrients from cream.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free
- Vegetarian
- Contains dairy
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dessert is best served fresh but can be kept chilled for a couple of days if needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy lemon dessert is the perfect balance of rich and tangy flavors. Its silky texture combined with the freshness of lemon makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. The simplicity of the ingredients means it’s easy to whip up, and the chill time allows the flavors to meld for a more delicious outcome.
Conclusion
This creamy lemon dessert is a showstopper with its perfect blend of richness and citrusy brightness. Its easy-to-make nature and delightful taste make it a great addition to any dessert spread. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy a refreshing and indulgent treat that’s as simple as it is satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
- You can substitute half-and-half, but the texture will be slightly lighter and less creamy.
- How long do I need to chill the dessert?
- For best results, chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set.
- Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
- Fresh lemon juice will give the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, this dessert can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- Can I make this dairy-free?
- You can try substituting coconut cream for a dairy-free version, but the texture may vary.
- How many servings does this recipe make?
- This recipe makes 4-6 servings depending on the size of your serving cups.
- Can I use a different fruit for the garnish?
- Yes, you can garnish with any fruit like raspberries, blueberries, or even kiwi for a twist.
- Can I add a meringue topping?
- Yes, you can pipe meringue on top and toast it in the oven for a more elegant presentation.
- How do I know when the dessert is set?
- It should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when you gently tap the surface.
- Is this dessert very sweet?
- It has a balanced sweetness, but you can reduce the sugar to taste if you prefer a less sweet version.