Chocolate Orange Posset Recipe

If you’re searching for an utterly divine, easy-yet-impressive dessert, look no further than Chocolate Orange Posset. This luscious, creamy treat melds zesty orange with deep chocolate in a silk-smooth custard, delivering a bright, chocolatey delight that’s guaranteed to end any meal on a high note. Each spoonful tastes like a little celebration, and best of all, this recipe is delightfully simple to prepare—perfect for both dinner parties and cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chocolate Orange Posset relies on a handful of everyday ingredients, yet each one works its magic to create a marvelously rich, tangy, and satisfying dessert. From fragrant zest to smooth cream and bold chocolate, every element shines in this stunning treat.

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the mixture and, when rubbed with orange zest, infuses the posset with vibrant citrus aroma.
• Orange Zest: Provides fragrant oils, amplifying the orange flavor and lending a beautiful color to the cream.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (2 ⅓ cups + 3 oz): The backbone of the posset and chocolate topping; its fat content is crucial for a luscious, set custard.
• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is a must—its tartness balances the sweetness and triggers the creamy, silky texture of the posset.
• Semi-sweet Chocolate (60–70% cacao): Chopped for easy melting, this adds just the right depth and a luxurious finishing touch.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Posset

Step 1: Prepare Your Ramekins

Begin by arranging eight small ramekins or cups on a sheet pan. This little step makes transporting your posset-filled dishes to the fridge a breeze later on, without the worry of spills.

Step 2: Make the Orange Sugar

Pour the sugar and orange zest into a bowl and rub them together between your fingertips until the sugar turns light orange and fills your kitchen with citrusy fragrance. This quick move infuses the sugar with extra oils from the zest, giving your Chocolate Orange Posset a burst of flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Simmer the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the orange sugar with the 2 ⅓ cups of heavy cream. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, scraping the bottom often to prevent any burning. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes—let the cream soak up all the fragrant orange notes.

Step 4: Juice and Strain

As the cream is simmering, squeeze enough oranges to yield ½ cup of juice. Once the cream mixture is ready, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a glass bowl to catch the zest bits. Pour the orange juice through the same strainer, stirring gently. This duo of straining ensures your Chocolate Orange Posset stays silky smooth.

Step 5: Let the Posset Mixture Rest

Stir it all together and let the mixture sit for about 20 minutes. This pause helps the flavors set and cools the mixture slightly before you portion it for chilling.

Step 6: Divide and Chill

Pour or ladle the creamy mixture evenly among your ramekins. Place them uncovered in the fridge for an hour to start the setting process. After that, cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 3–4 more hours (overnight is best!) to ensure they’re perfectly set.

Step 7: Make the Chocolate Ganache Topping

Place the chopped chocolate and reserved 3 oz of heavy cream in a heatproof bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth (about 90 seconds, but check often). Alternatively, gently heat the cream on the stove and pour it over the chocolate, then stir until glossy.

Step 8: Top and Finish

Spoon about a tablespoon of the ganache over each chilled posset. Pop them back in the fridge, uncovered, just until the chocolate sets—then your Chocolate Orange Posset is ready to dazzle.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Posset

Garnishes

Dress up your Chocolate Orange Posset with candied orange slices, a sprinkle of freshly grated orange zest, or a dusting of cocoa powder. Even a simple twist of orange peel turns this dessert into a showstopper!

Side Dishes

This vibrant dessert shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp biscotti, buttery shortbread, or even fresh berries. Something crunchy and mildly sweet brings out the richness of the posset without overwhelming its flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your Chocolate Orange Posset in everything from vintage tea cups to martini or coupe glasses. Mini jars, demitasse cups, or even espresso glasses give an individual touch. Layer with fresh orange segments or edible flowers for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any remaining Chocolate Orange Posset covered in the fridge for up to three days. Their flavor deepens and the texture becomes even silkier—almost more decadent with time.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t recommended for posset (as it can affect the creamy texture), you can freeze just the chocolate ganache for up to a month; simply thaw in the fridge before using. For best results, stick to refrigerating the finished dessert.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Chocolate Orange Posset—it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge. If you’ve made your ganache ahead separately, just gently warm it before topping if needed.

FAQs

Can I substitute a different citrus in my Chocolate Orange Posset?

Absolutely! While orange provides a sunny, classic flavor, lemon, lime, or even grapefruit juice can be used for unique twists. Just stick to the same measurements for a luscious, citrusy result.

Why does the recipe call for heavy whipping cream and not another type?

Heavy whipping cream’s high fat content is essential for the posset to set properly. Lighter creams just can’t create the same thick, silky-smooth texture.

Is it okay to skip the chocolate topping?

Yes! The posset is delicious on its own, but that glossy ganache adds an extra layer of decadence. If you want a lighter dessert, simply leave off the chocolate.

How do I know when the posset is fully set?

After chilling for 4–5 hours (overnight for best results), the posset should be firm enough to support a spoonful of ganache without any wobble, but still soft and creamy underneath.

Can I make Chocolate Orange Posset ahead for a party?

Definitely! Chocolate Orange Posset is ideal for making a day in advance. They hold beautifully in the fridge, so you can focus on enjoying your guests rather than worrying about dessert.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a simple, elegant dessert that brings bright citrus and rich chocolate together in every creamy bite, you’re going to fall in love with Chocolate Orange Posset. Give this recipe a try the next time you want to treat yourself or impress your friends—you might just discover a new favorite!

Print