The Syllabub recipe you’ve provided is a delightful throwback to a classic European beverage, traditionally enjoyed during spring and summer seasons, and often associated with Christmas festivities. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recipe:
Syllabub Recipe
Ingredients:

- 3 lemons, juice and zest of
- 3/4 cup hard alcoholic cider
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 343.6
- Fat: 33.1g
- Saturated Fat: 20.6g
- Cholesterol: 122.3mg
- Sodium: 34.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugar: 8.4g
- Protein: 1.9g
Servings: 8
Total Time: 3 hours (Prep Time: 3 hours)
Description:
Syllabub is an “old-fashioned” drink that dates back centuries. This recipe combines the zesty freshness of lemons with the subtle sweetness of hard cider, creating a creamy and indulgent treat perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknights to festive gatherings.
Keywords:
European, Spring, Summer, Christmas, Weeknight, No Cook, < 4 Hours, Easy
Recipe Instructions:
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Prepare the Base:
- Mix together the juice and zest of 3 lemons, 3/4 cup of hard alcoholic cider, and 5 tablespoons of sugar in a non-metallic bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
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Infuse and Rest:
- Let the mixture rest for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Add Cream:
- After the resting period, strain the liquid into another bowl to remove any zest or pulp. Slowly add 3 cups of heavy cream to the strained mixture.
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Whisk and Thicken:
- Using a whisk, beat the cream into the liquid mixture until it thickens. The mixture may form ribbons when you lift the whisk, which is perfectly normal and desirable for the texture of syllabub.
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Chill:
- Pour the prepared syllabub into individual serving glasses or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and set.
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Serve:
- Before serving, sprinkle each portion with a pinch of nutmeg for added flavor and aroma.
Additional Tips:
- Make sure to use a non-metallic bowl initially to avoid any metallic taste from the lemon juice and cider reaction.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste preference.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with whipped cream or even yogurt for a tangy twist.
Enjoy this creamy, citrusy delight as a refreshing beverage or a light dessert that captures the essence of tradition and flavor in every sip!