Chocolate Orange Posset

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Chocolate Orange Posset is the kind of dessert that whispers elegance but shouts simplicity. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create a silky, rich treat that looks and tastes like it came straight from a fancy bistro. The bright citrus cuts through the richness of the chocolate, giving it that perfect balance of sweet and tangy.

Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or indulging in a solo treat, this dessert always feels like a special occasion. The glossy chocolate top, the creamy base, and that zest of orange make it more than just a pudding—it’s an experience in a bowl. Let’s talk about how to make it unforgettable.

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What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?

This recipe works best with dark chocolate that has at least 60% cocoa solids. You want that deep, bittersweet flavor to really contrast with the bright notes of orange. Milk chocolate can be too sweet and won’t set as well. Choose a good-quality bar—something you’d enjoy eating on its own. If it tastes good straight out of the wrapper, it’ll be divine in your posset.

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Ingredients for the Chocolate Orange Posset

Heavy Cream
The backbone of any posset. Heavy cream gives the dessert its luscious, velvety texture and rich flavor.

Dark Chocolate (at least 60% cocoa)
Brings the depth, richness, and slight bitterness to balance the sweetness and citrus.

Granulated Sugar
Helps the cream thicken and sweetens the mixture. Not too much—just enough to smooth out the bitterness.

Orange Zest
Fresh zest infuses the cream with bold citrus fragrance and flavor. It’s the ingredient that transforms this from a classic chocolate dessert into something with a little sparkle.

Fresh Orange Juice
Provides acidity to help the cream set, while layering in even more vibrant orange taste.

Sea Salt (just a pinch)
A little salt enhances all the other flavors and rounds out the sweetness.

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How To Make the Chocolate Orange Posset

Step 1: Heat the Cream

Pour the heavy cream into a saucepan and set over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar and whisk until it dissolves completely. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer—but don’t let it boil over.

Step 2: Infuse the Orange Zest

Once the cream is simmering, add in the freshly grated orange zest. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step brings that bright citrus aroma into the cream.

Step 3: Add the Chocolate

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

Step 4: Add Orange Juice and Salt

Once the chocolate is fully melted, stir in the fresh orange juice and a pinch of sea salt. Whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Strain and Pour

For the silkiest texture, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher or bowl. This removes any bits of zest or unmelted chocolate. Pour the mixture evenly into ramekins, cups, or small jars.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. The possets will set to a firm, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Optional: Garnish Before Serving

Top with a dollop of whipped cream, shaved chocolate, or a thin slice of candied orange for a beautiful finish.

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Serving and Storing Chocolate Orange Posset

Serve this posset straight from the fridge in small bowls or elegant glasses. A little goes a long way—its richness is best enjoyed in petite portions. Add a garnish just before serving for extra visual (and flavorful) appeal.

To store, keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re making it in advance, hold off on garnishing until you’re ready to serve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of dark chocolate?

You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate if needed, but avoid milk chocolate as it’s too soft and sweet for this recipe.

Does the orange juice really help it set?

Yes! The acidity in the orange juice is essential for thickening the cream—it’s the magic that turns this liquid mixture into a velvety spoonable dessert.

Can I freeze Chocolate Orange Posset?

It’s not ideal. Freezing may cause the cream to separate and change texture. Stick with refrigeration for the best results.

How far in advance can I make this?

Up to 48 hours in advance works beautifully. In fact, letting it chill overnight helps intensify the flavor and ensures a perfect set.

Do I need to strain the mixture?

For a silky-smooth finish, yes. Straining removes zest bits and ensures a flawless texture. But if you don’t mind a bit of texture, it’s optional.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Traditional posset depends on cream to set, so dairy-free versions may not firm up the same way. You could experiment with coconut cream, but results will vary.

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Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If you’re in love with the richness of this Chocolate Orange Posset, you’ll probably adore these other recipes too:

• Chocolate Instant Pudding – Creamy, Smooth, and Irresistible
• Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats
• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra on the orange zest? Try a different garnish?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook and create confidently.

Explore even more recipes like this one on my Pinterest – Life with Jam.

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