Lemon Posset Is the 2024 Dessert of Summer

13.07.2024 - 02:12 / bhg.com / Karla Walsh

Jake Sternquist

Ice cream. Hot dogs. Grilled corn. Fresh peaches so juicy, they drip down your arms. Several foods seem to practically shout, “summer has arrived!” so when we set out to declare the 2024 dessert of summer, we started to sweat a bit. How could we narrow down all of the millions of options to land on the definitive dessert of summer for all 50 states?

The task was too large to tackle on our own, so Team BHG polled our Test Kitchen staff, editors, contributors, and 11 culinary experts from coast to coast to help zero in on the winner. From unique flavors of shaved ice and sorbet to no-bake trifles, showy basque cheesecakes, and ice cream sundaes every which way (from Campari-thyme to buttermilk-burnt honey), we had a handful of strong contenders. All held potential, but we couldn’t have more desserts of summer than days of summer.

One thing we knew for sure: Since nearly every response included seasonal fruit, our dessert of summer must, too. And it must be easy enough to execute at home, even on the steamiest day of the season.

As soon as we had two chefs chime in to suggest nearly the exact same treat as the dessert of summer 2024—and discovered that the creation included fruit and could be made with just three ingredients—we knew we had landed on our winner.

“For summer 2024, I’m seeing a trend towards desserts that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients with a focus on simplicity and flavor,” explains Jim Hagy, chef-owner of Chef’s Market in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. “Think: Fresh fruit tarts, herb-infused sorbets, and of course, citrusy delights. Keep it fresh, keep it simple, and let the ingredients shine!”

That sounds pretty appealing, right? So we’re calling it: 3-Ingredient Lemon Posset is the