Orange and Lemon Cream Dessert
This Orange and Lemon Cream Dessert is a light, citrus-infused delight that combines the sweetness of oranges with the tanginess of lemon in a silky smooth, custard-like texture. Made with fresh orange juice, egg yolks, creamy butter, and condensed milk, this dessert has layers of zesty orange and velvety lemon cream, creating a refreshing and indulgent experience. Topped with chocolate shavings, cocoa, or cinnamon, this chilled treat is perfect for warm days or as an elegant dessert for any occasion.
Preparation Time
This creamy citrus dessert comes together easily with a few simple steps.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
This recipe uses fresh citrus flavors, creamy dairy, and a touch of chocolate for a decadent finish.
For the Orange Cream:
Juice of 6 oranges (600 ml / 21 fl oz), strained
2 egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
70 g (2.46 oz) sugar
35 g (1.23 oz) cornstarch
80 g (2.8 oz) butter, at room temperature
30 g (1 oz) powdered sugar
For the Lemon Cream:
80 ml (2.8 fl oz) milk, at room temperature
500 ml (17.6 fl oz) milk
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
100 g (3.5 oz) condensed milk
2 egg yolks
70 g (2.46 oz) sugar
35 g (1.23 oz) cornstarch
For Decoration:
80 g (2.8 oz) chocolate, melted
Cocoa or cinnamon, for sprinkling
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make this creamy, citrus-flavored dessert.
1. Prepare the Orange Cream:
Strain the fresh orange juice to remove any pulp or seeds.
In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, vanilla sugar, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
Gradually pour in the strained orange juice, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency.
Remove from heat and let the custard cool slightly.
2. Beat the Butter Mixture:
In a separate bowl, beat the room temperature butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the cooled orange custard to the butter mixture in portions, beating well after each addition until smooth.
3. Assemble the First Layer:
Transfer the orange cream mixture into serving glasses or bowls, filling each halfway.
4. Prepare the Lemon Cream:
In a saucepan, combine 500 ml of milk, lemon zest, vanilla sugar, and condensed milk.
Bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
Gradually pour in the hot milk mixture while whisking constantly.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens into a creamy custard.
Remove from heat, stir in the fresh lemon juice, and let it cool slightly.
5. Assemble the Dessert:
Pour the lemon cream over the orange cream in each serving glass or bowl, creating two distinct creamy layers.
6. Decorate the Dessert:
Melt the chocolate and drizzle it over the top for a rich and indulgent finish.
Alternatively, dust with cocoa powder or cinnamon for added depth of flavor.
7. Chill and Serve:
Place the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
Serve chilled and enjoy the silky, citrusy goodness that melts in your mouth!
Nutritional Facts
This light and creamy dessert is rich in flavor while being refreshingly indulgent.
Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fats: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 90mg
The Origins and Popularity of Citrus Custard Desserts
Citrus-based custards and creams have long been enjoyed in European and Mediterranean cuisines. In France, Crème Anglaise and Crème Pâtissière are often flavored with lemon zest for a bright and tangy touch. Similarly, in Italy, citrus is a key ingredient in Panna Cotta and Lemon Tarts, while Spanish and Portuguese custards like Natillas and Crema Catalana use citrus zest and cinnamon for extra depth. The combination of oranges and lemons in this dessert draws from Mediterranean dessert traditions, creating a smooth and refreshing balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Orange and Lemon Cream Dessert is refreshing, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavors.
Velvety and Smooth: Each spoonful melts in your mouth.
Sweet and Tangy Balance: The combination of orange and lemon creates a perfect harmony.
Rich Yet Light: Made with fresh fruit juice, eggs, and milk, offering a creamy texture without being too heavy.
Elegant Presentation: A layered dessert that looks stunning for special occasions.
Perfect for Summer or Special Dinners: Serve as a light and refreshing end to a meal.
Health Benefits of Citrus Desserts
Despite being an indulgent dessert, this treat also provides some nutritional benefits.
Oranges: High in vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
Lemons: Rich in antioxidants that help detoxify the body.
Eggs: A great source of protein and essential vitamins.
Cocoa Powder: Contains flavonoids, which support heart health.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance this citrus dessert with complementary flavors and pairings.
With Fresh Berries: Garnish with strawberries or blueberries for extra color and sweetness.
With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
With a Biscuit or Cookie: Serve with shortbread or biscotti for a crunchy contrast.
With a Cup of Espresso: The richness of coffee balances the light, citrusy flavors.
Tips for the Best Citrus Cream Dessert
Follow these expert tips to achieve a perfectly smooth and creamy texture.
Strain the Orange Juice Well: This ensures a silky consistency.
Whisk Constantly While Cooking: Prevents lumps and creates a smooth custard.
Cool Each Layer Before Adding the Next: This helps the layers set properly.
Use Fresh Lemon and Orange Juice: Enhances the natural citrus flavors.
Chill for At Least 30 Minutes: This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Variations to Try
Customize this citrus dessert with different flavors and textures.
Chocolate Orange Cream: Add melted chocolate to the orange layer for a richer taste.
Coconut Citrus Cream: Replace milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Spiced Lemon Cream: Infuse with cardamom or cinnamon for extra warmth.
Berry Citrus Layer: Add a thin raspberry or blueberry compote between layers.
Conclusion: A Light and Indulgent Citrus Treat
This Orange and Lemon Cream Dessert is refreshing, silky, and bursting with citrus flavor. The balance of sweet oranges and tangy lemon, combined with creamy textures and rich chocolate drizzle, makes it a perfect summer dessert or elegant dinner treat. Try it today and enjoy a light, flavorful, and beautifully layered citrus delight!