Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta

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

Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes

Indulge in the creamy delight of Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta, a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus tang.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T09:16:47.047Z

Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta is a luxurious dessert that offers a refreshing twist on the traditional Italian treat. With its light and creamy texture, infused with the unique flavor of Meyer lemons, this panna cotta is perfect for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavor from Meyer lemons
Silky smooth texture that melts in your mouth
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for any gathering

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta is an exquisite dessert that strikes the perfect balance between rich creaminess and refreshing citrus notes. Whether you're hosting a formal dinner party or a casual get-together, this panna cotta will impress your guests and leave them craving more. Its elegant presentation and delightful flavor make it a standout choice among various dessert options.

The simplicity of this dessert is part of its charm. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes. This makes it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks looking to wow their friends and family with minimal effort.

Meyer Lemons: A Special Twist

Meyer lemons, a cross between a regular lemon and a mandarin orange, bring a unique sweetness and aromatic zest to this panna cotta. Unlike traditional lemons, Meyer lemons have a thinner skin and a more fragrant aroma, which enhances the overall flavor profile of the dessert. Their natural sweetness means you can enjoy a delightful lemon flavor without overwhelming tartness.

Using fresh Meyer lemons not only elevates the taste but also adds a vibrant yellow hue to your panna cotta, making it visually appealing. The zest and juice contribute to a refreshing aftertaste that perfectly complements the creamy texture, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds.

Garnishing Your Panna Cotta

While the panna cotta itself is a showstopper, adding garnishes can take your presentation to the next level. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, provide a pop of color and additional flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes of the Meyer lemon. Their natural tartness complements the sweetness of the panna cotta, creating a delightful contrast.

Mint leaves are another excellent choice for garnishing your dessert. Their vibrant green color adds a fresh touch, while their aromatic qualities can enhance the overall sensory experience. A sprig of mint on top not only looks inviting but also adds a refreshing fragrance that invites your guests to dig in.

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon gelatin powder
1/4 cup cold water
Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Garnish

Fresh berries
Mint leaves

Make sure to use fresh Meyer lemons for the best flavor in this dessert.

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin

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

Heat the Cream Mixture

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

Combine Gelatin and Cream

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the softened gelatin until fully dissolved. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing well.

Chill the Mixture

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

Serve

Once set, garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta!

Tips for Success

To ensure the perfect texture for your panna cotta, be careful not to overheat the cream mixture. Heating it just until the sugar dissolves is key. Boiling the mixture can cause the panna cotta to develop an undesirable grainy texture, detracting from its silky smoothness. Keep a close eye on the heat to achieve the best results.

When it comes to gelatin, make sure to give it enough time to soften in the cold water before adding it to the cream mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth consistency. If the gelatin isn't fully dissolved, you may end up with lumps in your panna cotta, which can affect both the texture and appearance.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy hosts. Once set, you can cover the glasses or molds with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it an ideal dessert for meal prep or for entertaining on short notice.

When ready to serve, simply garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves, and your dessert will be ready to impress. For an extra touch, consider drizzling a bit of honey or a light citrus syrup over the top to enhance the flavors even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but Meyer lemons have a sweeter flavor, so you might want to adjust the sugar.

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

You can store it for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

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

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

→ Can I add other flavors to the panna cotta?

Absolutely! You can experiment with flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or berries.