Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta

Name: Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin; 1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice; Zest of 1 Meyer lemon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Zest of 1 Meyer lemon

Highlighted under: SugarAlchemy Kitchen

A delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta is creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-20T09:41:49.771Z

This Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta is the perfect dessert for citrus lovers. With its silky texture and bright flavor, it's a refreshing end to any meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty Meyer lemon flavor
Silky smooth texture that melts in your mouth
Simple to prepare and elegant enough for special occasions

      

A Classic Italian Dessert with a Twist

Panna cotta, which translates to 'cooked cream' in Italian, is a versatile dessert that has captured hearts worldwide. Traditionally made with cream, sugar, and gelatin, this delightful treat is known for its silky texture. By incorporating the bright and fragrant Meyer lemon, this recipe elevates the classic panna cotta, adding a refreshing citrus twist that is perfect for any occasion.

Meyer lemons, a cross between a lemon and a mandarin orange, are sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons. Their unique flavor profile makes them a fantastic addition to desserts, lending a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the creamy panna cotta. The combination of creamy and tangy flavors will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet treat after a long day, Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta is an ideal dessert choice. Its elegant presentation and delightful taste make it a showstopper at any gathering. Plus, it's simple enough to whip up, ensuring that you won't be spending all day in the kitchen.

Preparing panna cotta is straightforward, and with just a few key ingredients, you can impress your guests with minimal effort. The creamy texture and zesty flavor are sure to please, making it a favorite among both adults and children alike. Serve it in stylish cups or molds for an added touch of sophistication.

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect panna cotta, it's crucial to ensure that the gelatin is properly bloomed before adding it to the cream mixture. This step is key to achieving that silky-smooth texture that panna cotta is known for. Additionally, be mindful not to overheat the cream mixture, as boiling can affect the final consistency.

For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice and zest. The zest adds an aromatic element that enhances the overall taste of the dessert. If you can’t find Meyer lemons, regular lemons can be substituted, but you may want to adjust the sugar content to balance the acidity.

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice
Zest of 1 Meyer lemon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Sauce

1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Zest of 1 Meyer lemon

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Panna Cotta

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.

Bloom the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom. Once bloomed, add it to the warm cream mixture and stir until fully dissolved.

Add Flavorings

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Meyer lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Pour and Chill

Pour the mixture into serving cups or molds. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

Make the Lemon Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Let it cool before serving.

Serve

Once the panna cotta is set, top with the lemon sauce and enjoy!

For best results, serve chilled.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining. Once set, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap to avoid absorbing any odors from the fridge.

When serving, consider garnishing with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color and added freshness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the bright lemon flavor beautifully.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your panna cotta experience, consider pairing it with a dessert wine, such as a late harvest Riesling or a sparkling Moscato. The sweetness of these wines harmonizes with the tartness of the Meyer lemon, creating a delightful balance.

For a more casual approach, serve the panna cotta alongside a cup of herbal tea or a light coffee. The soothing flavors will perfectly complement the creamy dessert, making for a relaxing end to your meal.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by infusing the cream with herbs like basil or mint before adding the gelatin. This will create a unique flavor profile that adds complexity to the dessert.

You can also layer the panna cotta with fruit purees or sauces for added texture and flavor. Consider using raspberry, strawberry, or passion fruit for a vibrant and visually appealing dessert that is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different; Meyer lemons are sweeter and less acidic.

→ How long can I store the panna cotta?

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

Yes, you can substitute the cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk.

→ Can I add other flavors to the panna cotta?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different citrus juices or add herbs like basil or mint.