Bright, silky, and refreshingly citrusy, Orange Mandarin Posset is a simple yet elegant dessert made with just a few ingredients. This classic British-style treat combines cream, sugar, and fresh citrus juice to create a smooth, creamy custard-like dessert without eggs or gelatin.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple dessert with only a few ingredients
- Creamy texture without eggs or gelatin
- Fresh citrus flavor that’s light and refreshing
- Perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings
- Elegant presentation with minimal effort
Ingredients

- 2 cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup fresh mandarin juice
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon mandarin zest
- Fresh mandarin segments for garnish (optional)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions

- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Reduce heat and let the cream simmer for about 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the mandarin juice, orange juice, and citrus zests.
- Let the mixture cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into small serving glasses or ramekins.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
- Garnish with fresh mandarin segments and mint leaves before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use freshly squeezed citrus juice for the best flavor.
- Add a touch of vanilla extract for extra depth.
- Try blood oranges or clementines for a different citrus twist.
- Serve with crushed shortbread cookies for texture.
- For a lighter version, garnish with fresh berries.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze, as the creamy texture may separate.
- Keep chilled until ready to serve for the best consistency.
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- Serve with shortbread cookies or biscotti.
- Pair with fresh berries for added color and flavor.
- Garnish with candied citrus peel for an elegant touch.
- Perfect as a light dessert after a rich meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is posset?
Posset is a traditional British dessert made by curdling cream with citrus juice, creating a smooth, creamy custard-like texture without eggs.
Can I use bottled citrus juice?
Fresh juice is recommended because it provides brighter flavor and better texture.
How long does posset take to set?
Usually about 3–4 hours in the refrigerator.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, posset is ideal for making a day ahead since it needs time to chill and set.
Ready to Make It?
This Orange Mandarin Posset is creamy, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. With bright citrus flavor and silky texture, it’s a perfect make-ahead dessert for any occasion.
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Orange Mandarin Posset
- Total Time: PT15M
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Orange Mandarin Posset is a silky, creamy citrus dessert made with fresh mandarin and orange juice. This easy British-style dessert requires only a few ingredients and sets into a smooth custard-like texture.
Ingredients
2 cups heavy cream
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup fresh mandarin juice
¼ cup fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 teaspoon mandarin zest
Fresh mandarin segments for garnish (optional)
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a saucepan over medium heat combine heavy cream and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for about 3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in mandarin juice, orange juice, and citrus zests.
5. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes.
6. Pour into serving glasses or ramekins.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until set.
8. Garnish with mandarin segments and mint leaves before serving.
Notes
Use freshly squeezed citrus juice for best flavor.
Add a little vanilla extract for extra aroma.
Blood oranges or clementines can be used for variation.
Serve with shortbread cookies for texture.
Best served well chilled.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT5M
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop / Chill
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 110mg