Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta

Name: Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon gelatin powder; 1/4 cup cold water; Zest of 1 Meyer lemon; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice; Fresh berries; Mint leaves; Additional Meyer lemon zest

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

Discover the refreshing taste of Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta, a perfect blend of creamy texture and citrus zest that will delight your palate.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-20T13:06:49.190Z

Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta is a delightful Italian dessert that combines the creaminess of panna cotta with the unique flavor of Meyer lemons. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a dinner party or a simple family gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and tangy flavor from fresh Meyer lemons
Lusciously creamy texture that is simply irresistible
Elegant dessert that's surprisingly easy to make

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta is a versatile dessert that fits seamlessly into any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special milestone, or simply indulging in a sweet treat after a long day, this panna cotta is sure to impress. Its elegant presentation and refreshing flavor will make it a standout dish on your table.

The creamy texture paired with the bright acidity of Meyer lemons creates a delightful contrast that excites the palate. This dessert is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings where you want to leave a lasting impression.

A Simple Yet Sophisticated Treat

One of the best aspects of making Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta is how easy it is to prepare. Despite its sophisticated aura, the recipe involves simple ingredients and straightforward steps. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, and with a little patience while it chills, you'll have a stunning dessert ready to serve.

Perfect for both novice and experienced cooks, this panna cotta allows you to showcase your culinary skills without the stress. With just a few techniques, you can impress your guests and elevate your dessert game.

Customization and Variations

While Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a swirl of berry compote for a burst of color and flavor or infusing the cream with herbs like rosemary or thyme for an unexpected twist.

You can also experiment with different toppings to enhance the presentation and taste. Fresh berries, edible flowers, or a drizzle of honey can elevate your panna cotta, making it uniquely yours.

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon gelatin powder
1/4 cup cold water
Zest of 1 Meyer lemon
1/4 cup freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice

For the Topping (Optional)

Fresh berries
Mint leaves
Additional Meyer lemon zest

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.

Heat the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and Meyer lemon zest. Heat over medium heat until just simmering.

Combine Gelatin and Cream

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Add the Meyer lemon juice and mix well.

Pour and Chill

Pour the mixture into individual serving glasses or molds. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.

Serve

Garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves before serving. Enjoy your creamy Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta!

This panna cotta can be made a day in advance for convenience.

Storage Tips

Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. Simply cover the individual servings with plastic wrap or transfer the panna cotta into an airtight container to keep it fresh.

If you plan to serve it later, wait to add any toppings until just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture. This way, you can ensure that your dessert looks and tastes its best when it's time to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

To create an even more delightful dining experience, consider serving your Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta alongside a crisp cookie or a light sponge cake. This combination adds a lovely texture contrast, allowing your guests to savor each bite.

Pair your dessert with a refreshing drink like sparkling water infused with lemon or a light, fruity wine. The complementary flavors will enhance the overall experience and make your dessert course truly memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but Meyer lemons provide a sweeter and less acidic flavor profile.

→ How long can I store panna cotta in the fridge?

Panna cotta can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is it possible to make panna cotta dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute coconut milk or almond milk for heavy cream.

→ Can I add other flavors to this panna cotta?

Absolutely! You can infuse the cream with different flavors such as lavender or vanilla bean.