Honey-Lavender Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
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| Honey-Lavender Panna |
Honey-Lavender Panna Cotta is one of those elegant desserts that looks sophisticated, tastes dreamy, and—best of all—is surprisingly simple to make. It’s creamy, lightly floral, delicately sweetened with honey, and paired with a bright berry compote that adds depth and balance. Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, romantic evenings, or anytime you want a dessert that feels special without the stress.
Below is the complete recipe to guide you through creating this silky, luxurious treat right at home.
Ingredients
For the Panna Cotta:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup honey (preferably light and floral)
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried culinary lavender
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ teaspoons unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- Pinch of sea salt
For the Berry Compote:
- 1 ½ cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water (optional, for thickening)
Step 1—Prep the Gelatin
In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes. This step is crucial—blooming the gelatin allows it to dissolve smoothly later, giving your panna cotta that perfect silky texture.
Step 2—Infuse the Cream
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, honey, dried lavender, and a pinch of sea salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to steam. Do not let it boil. Once it’s hot and aromatic, remove it from the heat and let it steep for 10 minutes to infuse the lavender flavor.
Step 3—Strain and Add Gelatin
After steeping, strain the cream mixture through a fine sieve to remove the lavender buds. Return the warm mixture to the saucepan or a clean bowl. Add the gelatin mixture and whisk until completely dissolved. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4—Pour Into Molds
Divide the panna cotta mixture evenly into ramekins, dessert glasses, or silicone molds. Tap gently to release trapped air bubbles. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight for the best texture.
Step 5—Prepare the Berry Compote
In a small saucepan, add the mixed berries, honey (or sugar), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat until the berries soften and release their juices, about 5 minutes. If you prefer a thicker compote, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute. Remove from the heat and let it cool completely.
Step 6 — Serve
If you used ramekins or glasses, simply spoon the cooled berry compote on top of each panna cotta.
If unmolding:
• Dip the bottom of the mold briefly in warm water
• Run a knife around the edge
• Gently invert onto a plate
Top with berry compote, an optional drizzle of honey, or even a fresh lavender sprig for added elegance.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in clear glasses to show off the creamy layers and vibrant compote.
- Garnish with fresh mint, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Pair with a crisp beverage like iced herbal tea, sparkling water with lemon, or light dessert wine.
- For extra texture, serve with shortbread cookies or almond biscuits on the side.
Helpful Tips
1. Control the Lavender
Lavender is beautiful but strong. Too much can quickly make the dessert taste like soap. Stick to culinary-grade lavender, and don’t steep longer than recommended unless you prefer a stronger flavor.
2. Gelatin Matters
Make sure the gelatin fully dissolves to avoid lumps. If needed, warm the mixture slightly to help it melt completely.
3. Dairy Options
- If you prefer a lighter panna cotta:
- Substitute half the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
Use all heavy cream.
4. Make It Ahead
Panna cotta is a perfect make-ahead dessert. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making entertaining stress-free.
5. Compote Variations
- Swap berries for:
- Peaches + vanilla
- Mango + lime
- Cherries + almond extract
- Each pairing creates a completely new flavor experience.
Final Thought
Honey-Lavender Panna Cotta with Berry Compote is the ideal dessert for anyone who wants something soft, soothing, fragrant, and beautifully balanced. It feels luxurious, yet requires no complicated techniques. The floral notes of lavender, the natural sweetness of honey, and the bright burst of berries create a harmony that tastes like a dessert straight out of a fine restaurant—yet made effortlessly in your home kitchen.
✨ Enjoy serving this elegant treat, and bon appétit! If you want more gourmet-style desserts, feel free to ask!