Lavender Honey Panna Cotta is a delightful and sophisticated dessert that combines the floral notes of lavender with the rich sweetness of honey. Perfect for foodies, home cooks, and dessert enthusiasts, this Italian classic is surprisingly easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients List
To ensure the best flavors, use high-quality ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup honey (preferably lavender honey for an extra boost)
- 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
- 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
You'll need the following kitchen tools:
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine mesh strainer
- Mixing bowl
- 6 panna cotta molds or ramekins
- Small bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Infusing the Cream
Begin by infusing the cream with the lavender and honey:
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, honey, dried lavender, and a pinch of salt.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to steam, stirring occasionally. Do not allow it to boil, as boiling can cause the cream to separate.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and cover. Allow the mixture to steep for about 15 minutes to absorb the lavender flavor.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a mixing bowl to remove the lavender flowers.
2. Gelatin Preparation
While the cream mixture is steeping, prepare the gelatin:
- Sprinkle the powdered gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
- Once the gelatin has bloomed, gently heat it in the microwave for about 10 seconds, or until it dissolves into a liquid.
3. Incorporating Gelatin and Setting
Now, it’s time to bring it all together:
- Pour the dissolved gelatin into the strained cream mixture. Add the vanilla extract and whisk thoroughly to ensure the gelatin is evenly distributed.
- Divide the mixture evenly among the panna cotta molds or ramekins.
- Allow the panna cotta to cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and firm to the touch.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Lavender Honey Panna Cotta with these serving ideas:
- Garnishes: Fresh berries, a drizzle of additional honey, or a sprinkle of dried lavender for a decorative touch.
- Pairings: Serve alongside a crisp white wine or a cup of herbal tea to complement the delicate flavors.
Conclusion
Lavender Honey Panna Cotta is an elegant dessert that’s bound to be a hit. With its silky texture and fragrant flavor, it’s a perfect finale to any meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations on this recipe—try different types of honey or infuse the cream with other herbs and spices. We can't wait to see how yours turns out! Share your creations with us and join our community of dessert enthusiasts.
Happy cooking!
Post a Comment