Honey Lavender Panna Cotta (Printable)

Honey and lavender infuse cream for a silky Italian dessert, ideal for spring events. Gluten-free and vegetarian.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dairy

01 - 2 cups heavy cream
02 - 1 cup whole milk

→ Sweeteners & Flavorings

03 - 1/4 cup honey, plus extra for drizzling
04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender buds
05 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Gelatin

06 - 2 1/4 teaspoons unflavored powdered gelatin
07 - 3 tablespoons cold water

→ Garnish

08 - Fresh berries (such as blueberries, raspberries)
09 - Edible flowers or additional lavender buds

# How-To Steps:

01 - Combine heavy cream, whole milk, and lavender buds in a small saucepan. Heat gently over medium heat until just steaming, ensuring it does not boil. Remove from heat, cover, and allow to steep for 10 minutes.
02 - Sprinkle gelatin evenly over cold water in a small bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes to hydrate.
03 - Strain the infused cream through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the lavender buds. Return the liquid to the saucepan, incorporate honey and vanilla extract, and gently heat until honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is warmed without boiling.
04 - Remove from heat and add the bloomed gelatin. Whisk thoroughly until gelatin is completely dissolved and mixture is smooth.
05 - Distribute the panna cotta mixture evenly among six ramekins or small glasses. Allow to cool to room temperature, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
06 - To serve, unmold onto plates if preferred, or present directly in the glasses. Drizzle with additional honey, garnishing with fresh berries and edible flowers.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The silky texture and floral notes are a clandestine treat for anyone who loves spring desserts.
  • It’s impressive with minimal effort: guests think you fussed for hours, but you barely broke a sweat.
02 -
  • If you rush the steeping or overheat the cream, the lavender can go bitter—set a timer and stay patient.
  • Dissolving the gelatin thoroughly is crucial, otherwise you’ll find unwelcome lumps in your panna cotta.
03 -
  • Let the cream mixture cool slightly before adding gelatin; hot liquid can break it down and ruin the texture.
  • Use glass ramekins if you want to show off the dessert’s color and delicate look—presentation counts.
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