There is something utterly captivating about the way a creamy, silky panna cotta meets the vibrant, tangy burst of blood orange and raspberry. This Blood Orange Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis Recipe effortlessly blends smooth textures with zesty freshness, making it a standout dessert that feels both elegant and approachable. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this dish offers that perfect balance of sweet, citrusy, and creamy that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet carefully selected ingredients is key to nailing the luscious texture and lively flavor of your panna cotta. Each component—whether it’s the creamy Greek yogurt or the tangy blood orange juice—plays an essential role in creating that unforgettable taste experience.
- Gelatin (1 packet, about 2 teaspoons): This is what gives your panna cotta its signature set and silky texture without overpowering the flavors.
- Cold water (3 tablespoons): Necessary to bloom the gelatin properly for a smooth finish.
- Whipping cream (1 ½ cups): Adds richness and that indulgent creamy mouthfeel every panna cotta needs.
- Whole milk (½ cup): Lightens the cream just slightly, striking a perfect texture balance.
- Sugar (½ cup for panna cotta, ¼ cup for coulis): Sweetens both the panna cotta and the raspberry coulis to enhance natural flavors.
- Blood orange zest (1 tablespoon): Infuses bright, aromatic citrus notes throughout the dessert.
- Greek yogurt, full fat (1 ½ cups): Brings a slight tang and creamy body, elevating the panna cotta beyond simple creaminess.
- Blood orange juice (½ cup, freshly juiced): Provides that juicy, tangy punch and gorgeous color.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with comforting warmth and depth.
- Fresh raspberries (1 ½ cups): The base for the bright, tart coulis to contrast beautifully with the panna cotta.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds acidity to the raspberry coulis for a bright finish.
How to Make Blood Orange Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Start by sprinkling the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This blooming process is crucial so that the gelatin dissolves smoothly and sets your panna cotta perfectly soft and jiggly.
Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the whipping cream, whole milk, sugar, and blood orange zest. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is just about to simmer. Avoid boiling, as this can affect the texture of your panna cotta.
Step 3: Incorporate Gelatin and Flavorings
Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Then stir in the blood orange juice, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt. This step creates the signature tangy, creamy body that sets this dessert apart.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Divide the mixture into individual molds or serving glasses. Allow them to cool slightly at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or until fully set. The wait is worth it for the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth result.
Step 5: Prepare the Raspberry Coulis
While the panna cotta sets, blend the fresh raspberries with sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds, creating a silky coulis that perfectly complements the creamy panna cotta.
How to Serve Blood Orange Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh blood orange zest or whole raspberries on top adds a pop of color and makes your serving look irresistible. A small mint leaf can elevate its freshness and add a lovely contrast in color.
Side Dishes
A light biscotti or crisp almond tuile pairs wonderfully as a crunchy contrast to the creamy panna cotta, balancing textures elegantly. Fresh fruit salad with citrus notes can also be a refreshing accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Blood Orange Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis Recipe in clear glasses to showcase the stunning layers of pale panna cotta and vibrant red coulis. Alternatively, unmold onto plates and drizzle extra coulis around it for an elegant restaurant-style presentation that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover panna cotta covered in the refrigerator, ideally in airtight containers, for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture. The coulis can also be stored separately and used within the same timeframe for best flavor.
Freezing
Freezing panna cotta is generally not recommended since the texture can become grainy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator to capture its creamy essence.
Reheating
This dessert is designed to be served cold and doesn’t require reheating. If you find it too firm after refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use other citrus juices instead of blood orange?
Absolutely! While blood orange provides a unique depth of flavor and stunning color, you can experiment with regular oranges, tangerines, or even grapefruit for a slightly different taste profile.
Is Greek yogurt necessary in this recipe?
Greek yogurt adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweet and citrusy flavors beautifully. You can substitute with regular yogurt, but full-fat Greek yogurt works best for the right texture and taste.
How long does it take for the panna cotta to set?
Typically, it needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator. For a more assured set, chilling overnight is ideal, especially if you’re preparing it ahead of time.
Can I make the raspberry coulis in advance?
Yes! The coulis can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving to loosen it up.
What can I do if my panna cotta doesn’t set?
If your panna cotta is too soft, it usually means the gelatin was not properly bloomed or dissolved. Next time, make sure to fully bloom the gelatin in cold water and whisk it thoroughly into the warm cream mixture.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Blood Orange Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis Recipe feels like passing along a secret to brighten any meal with something truly special. It’s refreshing, elegantly simple, and a joy to make. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved favorite—so go ahead and spoil yourself with this absolute delight.
Print
Blood Orange Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis Recipe
This Blood Orange Panna Cotta is a luscious Italian dessert combining creamy panna cotta infused with bright blood orange zest and juice, paired with a tangy raspberry coulis. It offers a perfect balance of rich, smooth textures and fresh, fruity flavors, making it a stunning treat for any occasion.
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Panna Cotta
- 1 packet gelatin, unflavored (about 2 teaspoons)
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 ½ cups whipping cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon blood orange zest
- 1 ½ cups full-fat Greek yogurt
- ½ cup freshly juiced blood orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Raspberry Coulis
- 1 ½ cups raspberries
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Bloom Gelatin: Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the gelatin absorbs the water and becomes spongy.
- Heat Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine whipping cream, whole milk, sugar, and blood orange zest. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Add Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
- Mix Yogurt and Flavors: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, blood orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually whisk the warm cream-gelatin mixture into the yogurt mixture until well combined and smooth.
- Pour and Chill: Pour the mixture into serving glasses or molds. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until set.
- Prepare Raspberry Coulis: In a blender or food processor, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
- Strain Coulis: Pass the blended raspberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds, creating a smooth coulis.
- Serve: Once the panna cotta is set, spoon the raspberry coulis over the top just before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved in the warm cream mixture to avoid lumps.
- Use freshly juiced blood orange juice for the best flavor and natural color.
- The panna cotta needs sufficient chilling time to properly set, so plan ahead.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whipping cream and milk with coconut milk and use a plant-based yogurt.
- To intensify the blood orange flavor, add a little extra zest or juice but adjust sugar accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
