Creamy, zesty, and decadently rich, this Chocolate Orange Posset is the ultimate no-bake dessert for citrus and chocolate lovers. Silky smooth with a velvety finish, each spoonful delivers a burst of tangy orange paired perfectly with deep, dark chocolate. It’s an elegant yet easy treat that sets beautifully in the fridge and looks absolutely stunning in ramekins or mini glasses.

With just a handful of ingredients and barely 10 minutes of active prep time, this dessert is pure culinary magic. It’s ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or anytime you need a refreshing finish to a hearty meal. The vibrant citrus keeps it light, while the chocolate adds a luxurious depth that’s hard to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Posset
- No baking required
- 5 ingredients only
- Fancy-looking but totally fuss-free
- A make-ahead dream (hello, stress-free hosting!)
- Naturally gluten-free
Can I Use Bottled Orange Juice Instead of Fresh?
Fresh orange juice is always the best choice here. It brings brightness and natural oils that bottled juice just can’t match. You’ll also want the zest—and that’s only coming from real oranges. Trust us, it makes all the difference in flavor.
Ingredients for the Chocolate Orange Posset
Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving that lush, creamy texture and signature flavor combo:
- Heavy Cream: This is the backbone of your posset. It thickens naturally when combined with citrus.
- Granulated Sugar: Helps balance the tart orange and brings structure to the final set.
- Fresh Orange Juice & Zest: For citrus zing and a bright, aromatic lift.
- Dark Chocolate: Brings richness and contrast. Go for high-quality with at least 70% cocoa.
- Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds a touch of warmth to enhance both the chocolate and orange.
How To Make the Chocolate Orange Posset
Step 1: Infuse the Cream
In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat, then simmer for 3 minutes. Stir often to prevent scorching.
Step 2: Add the Citrus
Remove from heat and stir in fresh orange juice and zest. Mix well. The acid in the juice will start the thickening magic.
Step 3: Melt in the Chocolate
Add chopped dark chocolate to the warm mixture. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the mixture into ramekins or glasses. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with a little shaved chocolate, orange curls, or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Serve and Store Your Chocolate Orange Posset
This recipe yields about 4 small servings, perfect for individual desserts at a dinner party.
Serve chilled, straight from the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for peak freshness. Store covered in the refrigerator. Freezing isn’t recommended as it can alter the texture.
What to Serve With Chocolate Orange Posset?
Fresh Berries
A handful of raspberries or sliced strawberries adds a pop of color and fruity contrast.
Shortbread Cookies
The buttery crunch is a lovely textural contrast to the creamy posset.
Espresso or Strong Coffee
A bold cup of coffee complements the richness of the dessert.
Whipped Cream
For an extra decadent finish.
Candied Orange Peel
A pretty and citrusy garnish that echoes the flavor inside.
Almond Biscotti
Crunchy and nutty, perfect for dunking or just nibbling between spoonfuls.
Chocolate Curls or Cocoa Nibs
For a touch of elegant garnish and texture.
Want More Dessert Ideas?
If you love the citrus-chocolate combo or just crave easy yet impressive sweets, here are a few more ideas to try next:
- Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a fruity, creamy indulgence.
- Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie with luscious whipped layers.
- Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake for show-stopping celebrations.
- Easy Cheesecake Cups when you want creamy, quick, and cute.
- Overnight Creme Brulee French Toast for sweet breakfast turned dessert.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 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 garnish with orange curls or chocolate shards? Did you sneak in a splash of orange liqueur?
I love hearing how others bring these recipes to life. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other create delicious moments.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy treats on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to for sweet inspiration!
Chocolate Orange Posset
- Total Time: 15 minutes + chilling
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Looking for an elegant no-bake dessert that takes minutes to prep and wows with every bite? This Chocolate Orange Posset is the perfect blend of zesty citrus and velvety chocolate, creating a silky custard-like treat that’s rich, smooth, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner party or just need a comforting sweet, this quick dessert recipe fits right in. It’s ideal for those seeking easy desserts, holiday treats, or make-ahead food ideas with bold flavor. It also checks the boxes for gluten-free, easy recipe, and dinner party desserts.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
3 ounces dark chocolate (at least 70%), chopped
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
1. Combine heavy cream and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the orange juice and zest until well combined.
3. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir until fully melted and smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into ramekins or dessert glasses. Chill for at least 4 hours or until set.
5. Serve chilled with your favorite garnish like chocolate curls, whipped cream, or candied orange peel.
Notes
Be sure to use fresh orange juice and zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
Allow at least 4 hours of chill time for the posset to fully set—overnight is even better!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ramekin
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 95mg