Chocolate Orange Posset is a silky, citrus-infused dessert with the rich indulgence of dark chocolate and the bright zestiness of orange. This creamy, no-bake British classic is thickened simply by the reaction between cream and citrus juice—no eggs or gelatin required. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for special occasions or an easy dinner party dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture with a refreshing citrus twist
- Simple to make with just a few ingredients
- No eggs or gelatin—thickens naturally with citrus
- Great make-ahead dessert
- Elegant presentation with minimal effort
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Heavy cream
- Granulated sugar or honey
- Fresh orange juice (strained)
- Orange zest
- Dark chocolate (finely chopped or grated)
Directions
- Heat the cream: In a saucepan, bring heavy cream and sugar to a gentle boil. Stir continuously and let it simmer for about 3 minutes.
- Add flavor: Remove from heat. Stir in orange juice and zest, mixing thoroughly.
- Strain (optional): For a smoother texture, strain the mixture to remove zest and any pulp.
- Pour and chill: Divide the mixture into serving glasses or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Garnish: Just before serving, top with dark chocolate shavings and optional orange segments or zest.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours (minimum)
- Total Time: ~2.5 hours
Variations
- Use blood orange juice for a deeper hue and flavor
- Add a splash of Grand Marnier or Cointreau for a boozy kick
- Substitute lemon or lime juice for a classic citrus posset
- Serve in hollowed orange halves for a creative touch
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Keep covered for up to 2 days
- Do not freeze: Freezing alters the texture
- Tip: To avoid a skin forming, cover after the posset is fully chilled
FAQs
What is a posset?
A posset is a creamy British dessert traditionally made by curdling hot cream with citrus juice. It thickens naturally without eggs or gelatin.
Can I use other types of citrus?
Yes, lemon, lime, or blood orange all work beautifully.
Is the chocolate essential?
Not at all. You can omit it for a classic orange posset or experiment with different toppings.
How do I know when it’s set?
The posset should be slightly jiggly but firm to the touch after chilling.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, posset is perfect for making a day in advance.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your chocolate is certified GF if needed.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
No, full-fat cream is essential for proper thickening.
What’s the texture like?
It’s smooth, creamy, and custard-like—more delicate than a pudding but equally rich.
Can I use sweetened orange juice?
Fresh juice is best. Sweetened juice can alter the flavor and setting.
How should I serve it?
Serve chilled, garnished with chocolate shavings, orange zest, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Conclusion
Chocolate Orange Posset is a decadent yet effortless dessert that delivers rich, citrus-kissed indulgence in every spoonful. With its luxurious texture and stunning presentation, it’s sure to impress without the need for complicated techniques. Make it once, and it just might become your go-to dinner party finale.
Print
Chocolate Orange Posset
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (with chilling)
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Simmering & chilling
- Cuisine: British-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A velvety, rich chocolate posset brightened with fresh orange zest and juice—an elegant no-bake dessert that’s effortlessly impressive.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 oz dark chocolate (70%), finely chopped
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 2 Tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cream, sugar, and orange zest. Stir and heat just to a simmer—do not boil.
- Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Whisk in orange juice, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
- Strain the mixture into a jug through a fine mesh sieve to remove zest and ensure smoothness.
- Pour into ramekins or glasses. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
- Serve chilled, garnished with orange zest, chocolate shavings, or candied orange if desired.
Notes
- Do not let the cream boil—only bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor and texture.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- Straining is optional but recommended for the silkiest finish.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ramekin
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 55 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg