Earl Grey Panna Cotta Recipe

If you have a craving for something elegantly simple yet bursting with subtle flavors, this Earl Grey Panna Cotta Recipe is an absolute delight you need to try. Infused with the fragrant, citrusy essence of Earl Grey tea, this creamy Italian dessert offers a smooth texture balanced by the gentle notes of bergamot, creating a perfect harmony that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing guests with a sophisticated finish, this Earl Grey Panna Cotta Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this dreamy Earl Grey Panna Cotta Recipe requires just a handful of essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in crafting its silky texture and aromatic flavor, making it a beautifully simple yet luxurious dessert.

• Heavy cream: The rich base that gives panna cotta its characteristic creamy and velvety texture.
• Whole milk: Lightens the cream slightly while maintaining tenderness and smoothness.
• Sugar: Provides just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the delicate tea notes.
• Gelatin sheets or powder: The magic ingredient that sets the panna cotta to its perfect silky firmness.
• Earl Grey tea bags: Infuses the cream with that unmistakable bergamot aroma and citrusy brightness.
• Vanilla extract (optional): Enhances the overall depth and sweetness of the dessert.

How to Make Earl Grey Panna Cotta Recipe

Step 1: Infuse the Cream with Earl Grey

Start by gently heating the heavy cream and whole milk together in a saucepan over medium heat. Just before it reaches a simmer, add the Earl Grey tea bags. Cover and let them steep for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the cream to soak up the fragrant bergamot oils, giving your panna cotta that signature Earl Grey character.

Step 2: Sweeten and Prepare the Gelatin

Remove the tea bags after steeping, making sure to give them a gentle squeeze to extract all the flavorful cream. Add sugar to the warm mixture and stir until dissolved. Meanwhile, bloom the gelatin by soaking it in cold water for 5 to 10 minutes; this softening process ensures it will dissolve smoothly later on.

Step 3: Combine Gelatin and Cream

Take your gelatin sheets or softened gelatin powder and stir them into the warm cream mixture over low heat. Stir continuously until the gelatin has completely dissolved—avoid boiling at this stage, as high heat can affect the set and texture of your panna cotta.

Step 4: Strain and Pour

For an ultra-smooth panna cotta, strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a clean bowl. This catches any bits of gelatin or cooked milk proteins and ensures a perfectly silky finish. Pour the mixture into your serving glasses or molds and allow to cool slightly before transferring them to the refrigerator.

Step 5: Chill Until Set

Refrigerate your panna cotta for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. The longer it chills, the better the texture will be—a silky, delicate custard that holds its shape but melts gently on the tongue.

How to Serve Earl Grey Panna Cotta Recipe

Garnishes

To complement the subtle floral and citrus flavors of the Earl Grey panna cotta, think fresh and light. A dollop of whipped cream, a few fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, or edible flowers make lovely garnishes that add both color and a fresh burst of flavor without overpowering the dessert.

Side Dishes

Serve this panna cotta alongside a crisp fruit salad or a light biscotti to add texture contrast. A simple almond tuile or honey-drizzled granola can also work wonderfully, bringing a touch of crunch that balances the creamy softness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make your presentation really stand out, try layering your panna cotta with a thin marmalade or citrus jelly on top, echoing the bergamot notes of the Earl Grey tea. You can also serve it in elegant glass jars or vintage teacups to highlight the tea-inspired theme—making it both a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Earl Grey Panna Cotta Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover each serving with plastic wrap to prevent the panna cotta from absorbing any odors and to keep its delicate texture intact.

Freezing

Though panna cotta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if necessary. Place individual servings in airtight containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, though expect a slight change in texture as freezing can sometimes cause it to become a bit grainy.

Reheating

Panna cotta is best served chilled and should not be reheated, as warming will melt its delicate set and ruin the texture. If you need to serve a softer pudding, consider making a fresh batch or trying a similar dessert designed for warm serving.

FAQs

Can I use loose leaf Earl Grey tea instead of tea bags?

Absolutely! Use about 2 tablespoons of loose leaf Earl Grey tea and strain carefully after steeping the cream. Loose leaf often provides a richer, more nuanced flavor if you have access to high-quality tea.

Is gelatin the only option for setting the panna cotta?

Gelatin is traditional for a silky, firm panna cotta, but if you prefer a vegetarian alternative, agar-agar can work—though the texture will be slightly different, usually a bit more firm and less creamy.

Can I make this panna cotta dairy-free?

Yes, substituting coconut cream for heavy cream and a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for whole milk can create a lovely dairy-free version. The flavor will change subtly but remain delicious.

How strong should the Earl Grey flavor be?

That depends on how long you steep the tea. For a gentle hint, steep for 10 minutes; for a stronger, more pronounced bergamot flavor, extend steeping to 15 minutes but be careful not to make it bitter.

What’s the best way to unmold panna cotta?

Run a thin knife around the edges to loosen and dip the mold briefly in warm water for a few seconds. Invert onto a plate and give a gentle shake to release the panna cotta, presenting a stunning shape every time.

Final Thoughts

This Earl Grey Panna Cotta Recipe is a wonderful invitation to explore the comforting charm of tea-infused desserts, combining sophistication with simplicity in every creamy bite. Don’t hesitate to try it—it’s an effortlessly elegant treat that’s sure to impress and delight anyone lucky enough to taste it.

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