If you’ve been searching for a dessert that feels like a gentle hug on a warm spring afternoon, then this Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe is the answer to your cravings. This delicate, creamy treat combines the soft floral notes of rose with the succulent sweetness of litchi, resulting in a dessert that’s utterly elegant yet surprisingly simple to make. Each spoonful melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of creaminess and fruity freshness, making it a delightful finale to any meal or a special indulgence all on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but essential, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma of the panna cotta. From creamy dairy to fragrant rose water and fresh litchis, every element adds a unique touch to this luscious dessert.
- Heavy cream: Provides the rich, velvety texture that makes panna cotta so indulgent.
- Whole milk: Balances the richness of the cream to keep the panna cotta light yet creamy.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dessert just right without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the creamy base.
- Rose water: Infuses the panna cotta with its signature aromatic floral note.
- Gelatin powder (or agar-agar): Ensures the panna cotta sets perfectly — agar-agar is a great plant-based substitute.
- Water (for gelatin bloom): Vital for softening the gelatin before mixing it in.
- Fresh or canned litchis: Bring juicy, fragrant sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rose.
- Sugar (for litchi sauce): Sweetens the fruit sauce while allowing the natural flavors to shine.
- Water (for litchi sauce): Helps achieve a smooth sauce texture.
- Lemon juice (optional): Adds a subtle brightness to balance the litchi’s sweetness.
How to Make Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Start by sprinkling the gelatin powder over two tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to soften, which helps it dissolve smoothly and ensures a silky panna cotta texture without lumps.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar, then warm the mixture over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves and the liquid is hot but not boiling — this delicate warming is key to preserving the beautiful creaminess.
Step 3: Incorporate the Gelatin
Once the cream mixture is heated, stir in the bloomed gelatin until it’s fully dissolved. This step sets the stage for the pudding-like consistency that defines panna cotta, so be sure it’s completely mixed in before moving on.
Step 4: Add the Aromatics
Mix in the vanilla extract and rose water to the hot cream base. These ingredients lend an enchanting floral and vanilla scent that elevates the panna cotta from simple to something truly special and memorable.
Step 5: Pour and Chill
Carefully pour the prepared mixture into serving glasses or molds. Let it cool slightly at room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator. Chill for at least four hours, or better yet overnight, so the panna cotta can set into a perfectly smooth, elegant dessert.
Step 6: Prepare the Litchi Sauce
While your panna cotta is setting, blend the peeled and pitted fresh or canned litchis with sugar and water until smooth. Add a few drops of lemon juice if you want that additional zing, then strain the sauce if any fibers or seeds remain, ensuring a silky topping.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Once the panna cotta is fully set, spoon a generous layer of the luscious litchi sauce on top of each serving. For extra charm and flair, garnish with slices of fresh litchi or delicate rose petals. Serve immediately and prepare to be enchanted by the wonderful blend of creamy, floral, and fruity flavors.
How to Serve Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes aren’t just about looks — they add texture and a pop of freshness. Fresh litchi pieces bring juiciness while rose petals contribute visual elegance and subtle fragrance. You could also sprinkle crushed pistachios for a nutty crunch or a tiny drizzle of rose syrup for extra floral sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with light and simple accompaniments so as not to overshadow its delicate flavor. Consider serving alongside a berry salad, a crisp fruit tart, or even a refreshing lemon sorbet. The panna cotta’s floral palate complements fresh, tangy fruits or mildly sweet treats.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of the traditional glass, present your Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe in dainty mason jars or elegant ramekins. For a trendy twist, try layering it with crushed biscuit crumbs or a thin layer of rose-infused jelly. These presentations make each serving feel like a little celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover panna cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover each serving tightly with plastic wrap or use airtight containers to prevent the dessert from absorbing any refrigerator odors and maintain its smooth texture.
Freezing
Freezing panna cotta isn’t usually recommended because the texture may become grainy once thawed. If you must freeze, use airtight containers and consume within one month. Thaw slowly in the fridge overnight for best results, but be prepared for slight changes in texture.
Reheating
Panna cotta is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary or advised. Instead, if you want a warm variation, consider serving it alongside a hot berry compote or a warm fruit sauce to play with the temperature contrast in each bite.
FAQs
Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin in this Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe?
Absolutely! Agar-agar is a great vegetarian substitute. Use the same amount but dissolve it in boiling water first, then mix it with the cream base. It sets a bit firmer than gelatin, so keep an eye on texture.
Are canned litchis a good alternative to fresh ones?
Yes, canned litchis work beautifully as they are already peeled and pitted, which saves prep time. Just make sure to drain them well before using to avoid excess liquid diluting the sauce.
How aromatic is the rose water in this recipe?
Rose water adds a subtle but distinct floral note that complements the creaminess. If you’re new to it, start with a tablespoon and adjust next time based on your preference to keep it delicate, not overpowering.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To veganize, swap heavy cream and milk for coconut cream and almond milk, and use agar-agar instead of gelatin. The flavor will change slightly but the silky texture and floral notes remain delightful.
How long should I chill the panna cotta for best results?
Chilling for at least 4 hours is essential for the panna cotta to set properly, but overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives you that smooth, firm texture every panna cotta lover adores.
Final Thoughts
The Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your dessert repertoire. It’s elegant yet easy, with a harmony of flavors that makes it feel like something you found at a charming boutique café. Give it a try the next time you want to impress or simply treat yourself — this delicate dessert is guaranteed to brighten your day and tantalize your taste buds.
Print
Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus 4 hours chilling
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Litchi Rose Panna Cotta is a delicate and creamy Italian dessert infused with fragrant rose water and topped with a luscious fresh litchi sauce. This no-bake treat combines the floral notes of rose with the sweet, juicy flavor of litchis, creating an elegant and refreshing dessert perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Panna Cotta Base
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon rose water
- 1 tablespoon gelatin powder (or agar-agar as a vegetarian substitute)
- 2 tablespoons water (to bloom the gelatin)
Litchi Sauce
- 1 cup fresh litchis (peeled and pitted) or canned litchis (drained)
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon water
- A few drops of lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over 2 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom (soften).
- Prepare the Panna Cotta Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved. Do not let it boil.
- Dissolve the Gelatin: Once the cream mixture is warm, add the bloomed gelatin to the saucepan and stir until completely dissolved.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and rose water, mixing well to infuse the panna cotta with a floral fragrance.
- Pour and Set: Pour the panna cotta mixture into individual serving glasses or molds. Allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Chill: Refrigerate the panna cotta for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
- Prepare the Litchi Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh or canned litchis with sugar and water. Blend until smooth.
- Enhance Flavor: Optionally, add a few drops of lemon juice to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Strain: Strain the mixture to remove any fibers or seeds, if necessary, to ensure a smooth sauce.
- Serve: Once the panna cotta has set, pour a layer of the litchi sauce over the top of each panna cotta.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh litchi pieces or a few rose petals for an elegant touch.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately after garnishing to enjoy the creamy, floral, and fruity flavors in every bite!
Notes
- You can substitute agar-agar powder for gelatin if you prefer a vegetarian version—however, agar sets differently and may alter the texture slightly.
- Use fresh litchis when in season for the best flavor; canned litchis work well too but drain them thoroughly.
- Adjust the sweetness of the panna cotta and litchi sauce according to your taste preference.
- Allow the panna cotta to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation and ensure silky texture.
- For a more intense rose flavor, you can add more rose water gradually but be careful not to overpower the dessert.
- The lemon juice in the litchi sauce is optional but helps to brighten the fruity flavor and balance the sweetness.
- Make sure not to boil the cream mixture to keep the texture smooth and creamy.
