Orange Blossom Honey Panna Cotta with Berry Compote is a light and silky dessert that’s both refreshing and sweet. The panna cotta is smooth and fragrant with a gentle touch of orange blossom honey, giving it a delicate floral flavor. Topped with a vibrant berry compote, it balances creamy and fruity beautifully.
I love making this dessert when I want something that feels special but isn’t too heavy. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that isn’t overpowering, and the berry compote gives it a little tartness that wakes up your taste buds. It’s one of those treats that feels fancy but is actually very easy to whip up.
My favorite way to serve it is in small glass jars or pretty cups so you can see the layers of creamy panna cotta and bright berries. It’s perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in when you want something cool and comforting at the end of the meal. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it whenever you want.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orange Blossom Honey: This honey adds a lovely floral note that’s unique and delicate. If you can’t find it, try mild wildflower honey or acacia honey for a gentle sweetness without overpowering the panna cotta.
Gelatin: Gelatin is essential to give panna cotta its creamy, set texture. Use powdered gelatin for easy measuring and dissolve it well. For a vegetarian option, agar-agar can be used, but it sets firmer and needs different handling.
Heavy Cream & Whole Milk: Cream provides richness, while milk lightens the texture. You can experiment with using half-and-half instead of both, but too much milk can make panna cotta less creamy.
Mixed Berries: Fresh or frozen berries work well for the compote. If berries aren’t available, diced stone fruits or cherries can be a tasty alternative. The sugar and lemon juice balance their natural tartness.
How Do You Get a Silky Smooth Panna Cotta Texture?
The key to smooth panna cotta is gentle heating and proper gelatin blooming. Here’s how:
- Bloom gelatin in cold water before adding to warm cream — this prevents lumps.
- Heat cream and milk slowly, just to a simmer. Avoid boiling, which can change texture.
- Stir gelatin into warm cream off the heat, ensure full dissolution.
- Pour mixture through a fine sieve into molds to catch any undissolved bits.
- Chill uncovered at room temperature briefly before refrigerating to prevent condensation on top.
Patience in these steps means your panna cotta will be creamy and perfectly set, without cracks or graininess.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small bowl – For blooming the gelatin, I use a simple bowl that’s easy to stir.
- Saucepan – A medium-sized one to gently heat the cream and honey without scorching.
- Measuring spoons & cups – For accurate ingredient amounts, especially with gelatin and honey.
- Fine mesh sieve – Helps strain the mixture to keep the panna cotta smooth and lump-free.
- Ramekins or small molds – Perfect for shaping the panna cotta so it looks elegant on the plate.
- Refrigerator – To set the panna cotta, so make sure you have enough space to chill the molds.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Different honey: Swap orange blossom for lavender or thyme honey for a new floral twist.
- Fresh herbs: Add a sprig of thyme or basil to the panna cotta before setting for an herbal note.
- Spiced berries: Stir in cinnamon or a splash of orange liqueur into the berry compote for extra warmth.
- Vegan option: Use coconut milk and agar-agar instead of dairy and gelatin for a plant-based treat.
Orange Blossom Honey Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Panna Cotta:
- 2 ½ teaspoons powdered gelatin (about 1 packet)
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ cup orange blossom honey
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Berry Compote:
- 1 cup mixed fresh or frozen berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon water
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Tuile or caramel shards (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 4 hours to chill and set in the refrigerator. While the panna cotta sets, you can make the berry compote, which takes about 10 minutes. It’s a simple but elegant treat that you can prepare ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bloom the Gelatin:
Sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so it softens and blooms nicely.
2. Prepare the Panna Cotta Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and orange blossom honey. Heat over medium heat until the mixture just starts to simmer—don’t let it boil. Stir occasionally to help the honey dissolve.
3. Add Gelatin and Flavor:
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the softened gelatin until it completely dissolves. Then add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing everything well.
4. Pour into Molds and Chill:
Pour the mixture evenly into 4 to 6 small ramekins or molds. Let them cool down to room temperature. Then cover with plastic wrap and place them in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is firm and set.
5. Make the Berry Compote:
While you wait, put the berries, sugar, lemon juice, and water into a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the berries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Serve and Garnish:
To unmold the panna cotta, briefly dip each ramekin in hot water for a few seconds and invert onto a serving plate. Spoon the berry compote over the panna cotta. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and, if you like, a delicate tuile or caramel shard on top.
7. Enjoy!
The panna cotta is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept chilled for up to two days. It’s a creamy, floral, and refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion.
Can I Use Agar-Agar Instead of Gelatin?
Yes! Agar-agar is a great vegetarian substitute, but it requires boiling to activate. Use about half the amount of agar powder as gelatin and dissolve it in boiling cream before mixing. The texture will be firmer and slightly different.
Can I Make the Panna Cotta Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the panna cotta up to 2 days in advance. Just cover and refrigerate after pouring the mixture into molds. Make the berry compote fresh on the day you plan to serve for best flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the berry compote separate in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat the compote slightly before serving if desired.
Can I Use Frozen Berries for the Compote?
Yes, frozen berries work well and are often more affordable. Thaw them slightly before cooking the compote, or cook them frozen—just extend the cooking time a bit to allow the juices to release.
