Description
A refreshing and elegant Elderflower Posset with gooseberries, combining a silky, creamy lemon and elderflower-flavored dessert topped with sweet-tart cooked gooseberries. Perfect for a light, summery treat that is both easy to make and delightfully fragrant.
Ingredients
Scale
Posset
- 600ml double cream
- 200g caster sugar
- 2 lemons, zested, plus 75ml juice
- 1 tbsp elderflower cordial
Topping
- 250g gooseberries, fresh or frozen
- 1 tsp elderflower cordial
- 30g caster sugar
Instructions
- Make the Posset: Pour the double cream into a large saucepan and add the caster sugar. Cook over low to medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves completely, about 4 minutes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and bubble for 1 minute to thicken slightly.
- Add Flavors: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and elderflower cordial until well combined.
- Chill the Posset: Divide the cream mixture evenly between six small glasses or pots. Allow them to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set properly. The posset can be kept chilled for up to 24 hours.
- Prepare the Gooseberry Topping: If using fresh gooseberries, trim off the tops and tails with a small sharp knife. Place the gooseberries in a saucepan with the elderflower cordial and caster sugar.
- Cook the Gooseberries: Cook over medium heat until the berries soften but retain their shape—about 5 to 7 minutes for fresh gooseberries or 8 to 10 minutes if frozen. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cool the Topping: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cooked gooseberries to cool to room temperature or chill them in the fridge before serving.
- Serve: Top each chilled posset with a spoonful of the cooled elderflower-scented gooseberries, and serve immediately for a light and floral dessert.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh gooseberries when in season, but frozen ones work well too.
- Ensure to stir the cream mixture continuously to avoid burning or curdling during cooking.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead, making it ideal for entertaining.
- Adjust the amount of sugar in the topping to taste, especially if your gooseberries are naturally sweeter or more tart.
- Use a good quality elderflower cordial for authentic floral flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: elderflower posset, gooseberries, creamy dessert, British dessert, elderflower cordial, lemon posset, summer dessert
