If you’re a fan of tangy and creamy desserts, this Lemon Cream Dessert is a perfect treat for you! With fresh lemons, a smooth cream filling, and a silky whipped cream topping, it’s an elegant dessert that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or looking for a refreshing treat, this lemon-based dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours, 35 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
For the lemon filling:
- 3 lemons (freshly squeezed juice and zest)
- 100g (1/2 cup) sugar
- 30g (3 tablespoons) cornstarch
- 250ml (1 cup) chilled cream (33% fat content)
Directions:
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Prepare the Lemon Mixture:
- Start by squeezing the juice of 3 lemons and zesting them. Set the zest aside for later.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, zest, and sugar. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it starts to warm up.
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Thicken the Lemon Filling:
- Add 30g of cornstarch to the lemon mixture and stir continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens into a custard-like consistency.
- Once thickened, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
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Chill the Lemon Mixture:
- Pour the lemon filling into a shallow dish and spread it evenly. Let it cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge. Chill for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
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Whip the Cream:
- After the lemon filling has chilled, prepare the chilled cream (33% fat content) in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream on high speed until it forms soft peaks and thickens up, about 3-4 minutes.
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Combine the Lemon and Whipped Cream:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled lemon mixture until smooth and combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much.
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Pipe and Serve:
- Transfer the cream mixture into a piping bag fitted with a Wilton 1M nozzle (for beautiful swirls).
- Pipe the lemon cream into serving glasses, cups, or onto a cake. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor!
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
The Origins and Popularity of Lemon Cream Desserts: Lemon desserts have been popular in many cultures, especially in European cuisine. From Italy’s lemon sorbet to the UK’s lemon curd, lemons are known for their bright, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with sweet cream. In this recipe, the combination of whipped cream and lemon offers a light yet indulgent dessert experience, making it perfect for a warm day or a festive gathering.
The use of cornstarch to thicken the lemon filling provides a smooth texture and makes it stable enough to be piped or spread, which is why this dessert is loved for its versatility. Whether you serve it in individual cups, as a layer on cakes, or even in lemon tarts, this dessert has earned its place as a favorite in many kitchens.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: This recipe is a dream come true for anyone who loves citrusy, creamy desserts. The tangy lemon balances perfectly with the rich whipped cream, offering a refreshing yet indulgent treat. It’s light enough to be enjoyed after a heavy meal, and the beautiful presentation of piped cream makes it perfect for any special occasion.
Health Benefits of Lemon Cream Dessert: Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, aids in collagen production for healthy skin, and helps with the absorption of iron. The cream adds some calcium and protein, though this dessert should be enjoyed in moderation due to its sugar content.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this lemon cream dessert in individual portions, in small glass jars or bowls. Pair it with a cup of herbal tea or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the citrus flavors. It also pairs well with a light fruit salad or a side of shortbread cookies for an extra crunch.
Tips:
- Chill the cream well before whipping it for the best texture.
- Make it ahead: The lemon filling can be prepared up to a day in advance and chilled until ready to serve.
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor, and don’t skip the zest! It adds a lot of citrusy aroma.
- If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can adjust the sugar to taste.
Variations to Try:
- Lemon Blueberry Cream: Add some fresh blueberries or a blueberry compote between the lemon cream layers for extra fruitiness.
- Lemon Coconut Cream: Stir in some shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Lemon Cream: Drizzle a little melted dark chocolate over the cream or layer it underneath the lemon filling for a chocolatey surprise.
Conclusion: This Lemon Cream Dessert is the perfect balance of bright citrus and rich creaminess, making it a versatile and delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy it fresh, chilled, and topped with a swirl of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the lemon filling and whipped cream the day before and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble it just before serving. -
What kind of cream should I use for this recipe?
It’s best to use heavy cream (33% fat content) for a thick and stable whipped topping. -
Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use lemon extract in a pinch. -
How long will this dessert last?
This dessert will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!
This recipe offers the perfect mix of tart and creamy flavors, making it a refreshing treat for any occasion.