Chocolate Orange Posset

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A chocolate orange posset is the kind of dessert that feels indulgent yet incredibly easy to make. It boasts a silky-smooth texture with a richness that melts on the tongue, and the citrusy notes from fresh orange juice and zest cut beautifully through the creamy depth of dark chocolate. It tastes like the kind of treat you’d expect to find at an upscale restaurant, but it takes less than 15 minutes of active prep.

What makes this posset special is the balance of just three key ingredients: cream, chocolate, and citrus. Unlike traditional puddings or custards, there are no eggs or gelatin required. The citrus juice causes the cream to set naturally, creating a luscious texture that holds up in the fridge for days. It’s minimal effort with maximum payoff.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Posset

This dessert hits all the right notes. It’s velvety and dense but not heavy, thanks to the citrus cutting through the richness. The orange flavor isn’t overpowering; it’s fresh, bright, and subtly lifts the chocolate. It also looks elegant in ramekins or little glasses, making it ideal for dinner parties or a quiet night in when you just want something extra-special. Plus, the make-ahead nature of this treat makes it the ultimate stress-free dessert.

Can I Use Any Kind of Chocolate for a Posset?

While the recipe is forgiving, using a high-quality dark chocolate with around 60-70% cocoa solids will give you the best results. Avoid overly sweet or low-cocoa chocolates, as they can throw off the balance of flavors and affect how the posset sets. If you’re feeling bold, you can even experiment with bittersweet or flavored dark chocolates—orange-infused or chili-spiked bars could give this classic dessert a fun twist.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Orange Posset

Creating a luxurious chocolate orange posset starts with a few simple ingredients, but each one plays a starring role.

• Heavy cream: This is the base of the posset, giving it that luxurious, smooth, custard-like texture without any need for eggs or thickeners.
• Dark chocolate: High-quality dark chocolate melts into the cream to form the rich, decadent body of the dessert. Go for 60-70% cocoa content.
• Orange zest: Infuses the cream with fresh citrus oils for a deeper orange aroma.
• Fresh orange juice: Provides the acidity that naturally sets the cream. Freshly squeezed is best.
• Sugar: Balances the bitterness of the chocolate and adds structure.
• Vanilla extract (optional): Adds depth and a warm background note to round out the flavors.

How To Make the Chocolate Orange Posset

Step 1: Infuse the Cream

Pour the heavy cream into a saucepan along with the sugar and orange zest. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar fully dissolves. Let it simmer for 3 minutes to allow the zest to infuse.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

Remove the pan from the heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Add Citrus and Vanilla

Let the chocolate cream cool for a couple of minutes, then stir in the freshly squeezed orange juice and vanilla extract (if using). The acidity from the orange juice will begin the setting process.

Step 4: Strain and Pour

Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any zest or lumps. Pour the posset into small ramekins, glasses, or jars.

Step 5: Chill to Set

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the possets are set with a delicate jiggle.

How to Serve and Store Chocolate Orange Posset

Chocolate orange posset is best served chilled, ideally straight from the fridge. It firms up into a creamy custard with a silky, spoonable texture. You can top it with a dollop of whipped cream, some orange zest curls, or a few shards of chocolate if you’re feeling fancy. This recipe makes enough for 4 to 6 servings, depending on how generous you go with the portions.

Leftovers keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap or lids. The texture actually improves as it sits, becoming even more luscious.

What to Serve With Chocolate Orange Posset?

Whipped Cream with Orange Zest

A light topping of whipped cream and a pinch of zest gives an airy contrast to the dense posset.

Chocolate Shavings or Curls

Add a few chocolate curls or shavings on top for an extra layer of indulgence.

Butter Shortbread Cookies

Serve alongside crisp buttery cookies to scoop or dip into the posset.

Candied Orange Peel

A slice of candied peel not only enhances the citrus element but also adds a chewy texture.

Toasted Almonds

A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds provides a nice crunch against the smoothness.

Biscotti

Citrus or chocolate biscotti pairs well, giving a crunchy textural contrast.

Fresh Berries

Raspberries or strawberries balance the richness with tartness and color.

Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If chocolatey treats are your thing, you’ll love these decadent ideas too:

• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread for a rich, gooey sliceable indulgence.
• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies that combine crunch with creamy sweetness.
• Dr. Pepper Brownies for a nostalgic soda-kissed chocolate twist.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls with a fruity-creamy burst in every bite.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you experiment with different citrus fruits or chocolate types? Or maybe you added a splash of orange liqueur? I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and desserts on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to sweet cravings.

Conclusion

Chocolate orange posset is proof that elegance doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you get a luxurious dessert that delights with every spoonful. Whether you serve it after a special dinner or keep it tucked in the fridge for your own personal treat, it’s bound to become a favorite.

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