Name: Earl Grey Panna Cotta: A Smooth, Elegant Tea-Infused Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 260 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Whole Milk (Substitution: Use almond milk for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Note: Heavy whipping cream is recommended for best results.); 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar (Substitution: Can use honey or maple syrup, adjusting to taste.); 3 sheets Gelatin Sheets; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional: Substitute with almond or hazelnut extract for a different note.); 2 tablespoons Loose Leaf Earl Grey Tea (Note: Loose leaf tea is preferred for better infusion depth; can also use tea bags.)

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As I poured the delicate cream mixture into the glasses, a waft of bergamot filled the kitchen, instantly whisking me away to cozy afternoons at my favorite tea shop. This Earl Grey Panna Cotta is not just a dessert; it’s a tea-infused delight that transports your taste buds with each silky spoonful. What I love most about this recipe is its effortless charm—it takes just 20 minutes to whip up, offering a no-bake treat that sets beautifully in the refrigerator. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a touch of elegance in your evening, this easy dessert promises to impress without the fuss. What’s your favorite way to elevate a simple dessert?

Why is Earl Grey Panna Cotta a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this no-bake dessert is a delightful choice for any occasion.

Elegant Presentation: The stunning wobble and creamy texture make each serving feel gourmet, impressing your guests without the hours spent in the kitchen.

Unique Flavor Fusion: Infused with aromatic Earl Grey tea, the dessert brings a sophisticated twist that sets it apart from typical sweet treats.

Versatile Pairing Options: Try this panna cotta with a side of Cottage Cheese Flatbread or a fresh fruit compote for added texture and flavor.

Diet-Friendly Indulgence: Egg-free and gluten-free, it caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, allowing everyone to indulge.

Elevate your dessert game and enjoy the luxurious experience of this Earl Grey Panna Cotta!

Earl Grey Panna Cotta Ingredients

• Now, let’s gather everything you need for this delightful tea-infused dessert!

For the Creamy Base

Whole Milk – Adds creaminess and balances the richness. Substitution: Use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream – Provides the desired silky texture. Note: Heavy whipping cream is recommended for best results.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dessert. Substitution: Can use honey or maple syrup, adjusting to taste.

For Setting

Gelatin Sheets – Helps set the panna cotta. Substitution: 1 packet of powdered gelatin can be used (approximately 1 tablespoon) if sheets are unavailable.

For Flavor Enhancements

Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile with warmth. Optional: Substitute with almond or hazelnut extract for a different note.
Loose Leaf Earl Grey Tea – Infuses the panna cotta with flavorful bergamot. Note: Loose leaf tea is preferred for better infusion depth; can also use tea bags.

Get ready for a delightful experience as you whip up this elegant Earl Grey Panna Cotta!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Earl Grey Panna Cotta

Step 1: Prepare Molds
Lightly grease the inside of your serving glasses or molds with a small amount of vegetable oil. This will help the panna cotta to release easily when it’s time to serve. Set the prepared molds aside while you prepare the mixture, ensuring they are ready to be filled.

Step 2: Soak Gelatin
Place the gelatin sheets in a bowl of cold water to soak until soft, which should take about 5 minutes. Once softened, gently remove the sheets from the water, shaking off any excess liquid before setting them aside. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect gel-like texture of your Earl Grey Panna Cotta.

Step 3: Prepare Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly, until it begins to simmer—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Pay attention to avoid boiling, as you want the sugar dissolved and the mixture steaming, looking frothy at the edges.

Step 4: Incorporate Gelatin
Once the mixture reaches that lovely simmering point, remove it from the heat. Squeeze any excess water from the soaked gelatin sheets and add them to the warm cream mixture. Stir gently until the gelatin is completely dissolved, which should take about 2 minutes, ensuring a silky texture in your Earl Grey Panna Cotta.

Step 5: Infuse Flavors
Add the vanilla extract and the loose leaf Earl Grey tea directly into the warm mixture. Allow the tea to steep for 10-15 minutes, during which you’ll notice the delightful aroma of bergamot filling your kitchen. This step is essential for a robust tea flavor that elevates your panna cotta.

Step 6: Strain & Pour
After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the tea leaves. This ensures a smooth texture in your final Earl Grey Panna Cotta. Carefully pour the strained mixture into your prepared molds, filling them evenly, and enjoy the beautiful, creamy swirl.

Step 7: Refrigerate
Once filled, place the molds in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight if you prefer. The panna cotta should set completely with a firm wobble when you gently move the molds. This chilling step is key in achieving the luxurious texture characteristic of a perfect panna cotta.

Step 8: Unmold & Serve
To serve, briefly dip the bottoms of the molds in hot water for about 10-15 seconds. Carefully invert the molds onto your serving plates; the panna cotta should slide out smoothly. The elegant presentation of your Earl Grey Panna Cotta is now ready to impress family and friends with its creamy allure!

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Expert Tips for Earl Grey Panna Cotta

Smoother Texture: Ensure all ingredients are well combined, and strain the mixture thoroughly to create a silky Earl Grey Panna Cotta.

Avoid Boiling: Keep a close eye on the cream mixture; boiling can curdle the cream, affecting the smoothness of your dessert.

Bloom Gelatin Correctly: If using powdered gelatin, remember to bloom it in cold water first before adding to the hot mixture. This ensures proper gelation.

Steeping Time: Allow enough time for the Earl Grey tea to steep; 10-15 minutes is ideal for infusing deep, aromatic flavors.

Garnish Creatively: Consider topping your panna cotta with fresh berries or a delightful citrus coulis to elevate presentation and flavor.

Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days; serve them chilled for the best experience.

What to Serve with Earl Grey Panna Cotta?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that bring out the best in this creamy dessert.

Shortbread Cookies: Their buttery crunch complements the silky texture of the panna cotta perfectly, adding a delightful contrast.
Fresh Berries: A handful of mixed berries adds a burst of color and tartness, balancing the sweetness of the dessert beautifully.
Citrus Coulis: Drizzling a tangy citrus coulis enhances the floral notes of the bergamot, creating a vibrant flavor profile.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds richness and a luscious finish to each spoonful of panna cotta.
Mint Tea: Serve with a refreshing cup of mint tea to cleanse the palate and highlight the tea-infused nature of the panna cotta.
Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings introduces a hint of bitterness, providing a wonderful depth of flavor that contrasts with the sweet creaminess.

Indulge in these pairings to transform your Earl Grey Panna Cotta into a complete, memorable meal experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Earl Grey Panna Cotta are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing elegance! You can prepare the panna cotta mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Simply follow the instructions up to the refrigeration step, then strain and pour the mixture into molds. Once filled, store them in the refrigerator where they will set for at least 4 hours or overnight. To maintain the creamy texture and prevent any unwanted flavors, cover the molds tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, simply unmold and enjoy this delightful tea-infused dessert just as delicious as when you first made it!

Storage Tips for Earl Grey Panna Cotta

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are covered to maintain moisture and flavor.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for Earl Grey Panna Cotta, as it can alter the texture and creaminess. Enjoy this delightful dessert fresh!

Reheating: If chilled panna cotta is too firm for your taste, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. No reheating needed; it’s best enjoyed cold.

Serving After Storage: When you’re ready to serve your panna cotta, simply unmold it as instructed and indulge in the silky, vibrant taste of this tea-infused dessert.

Earl Grey Panna Cotta Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and create your own unique twist on the classic panna cotta, adding flavors and textures that excite your palate!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical, rich flavor.
Sweet Swaps: Try using maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more robust sweetness; adjust to taste.
Flavor Infusion: Experiment by infusing with different teas like matcha for a vibrant green color and earthy taste.
Fruit Topping: Add fresh berries or a warm berry compote on top to enhance sweetness and provide a burst of freshness.
Citrus Zing: Include a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest in the mixture for a refreshing citrus note that complements the bergamot.
Chocolate Twist: Top your panna cotta with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or add cocoa powder to the base for an unexpected chocolate flair.
Crunch Factor: Sprinkle crushed biscotti or candied nuts on top for a delightful textural contrast to the silky dessert.
Creamy Layering: Consider layering with a homemade Cottage Cheese Wraps for an added protein punch and creamy depth.

No matter how you choose to customize your Earl Grey Panna Cotta, each twist brings something special. Enjoy your creation alongside a slice of Cottage Cheese Flatbread for a delightful afternoon treat!

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Earl Grey Panna Cotta Recipe FAQs

What type of Earl Grey tea should I use for this panna cotta?
I recommend using loose leaf Earl Grey tea for the deepest flavor infusion, but if tea bags are more convenient, go ahead and use those! Just make sure to steep them for the same amount of time to extract the lovely notes of bergamot.

How do I know when my gelatin is properly soaked?
Soak the gelatin sheets in cold water until they become soft and pliable, which typically takes about 5 minutes. They should be flexible to the touch, making it easy to incorporate them into your warm cream mixture for a smooth texture.

How should I store leftovers of Earl Grey Panna Cotta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover the panna cotta to retain its moisture and flavor; it’s best enjoyed cold!

Can I freeze Earl Grey Panna Cotta?
Freezing is not recommended for Earl Grey Panna Cotta, as it can compromise the creamy texture and cause it to separate upon thawing. This dessert is best enjoyed fresh after chilling in the refrigerator.

What if my panna cotta doesn’t set properly?
If your panna cotta doesn’t set, it might be due to insufficient gelatin. Ensure you’ve followed the specific soaking instructions and heating procedure. If using powdered gelatin, remember that it should be bloomed in cold water before adding to the warm mixture. If you experience issues, add a little more gelatin to your next batch for a firmer result.

Is the Earl Grey Panna Cotta suitable for vegans?
This panna cotta is not vegan due to the use of heavy cream and gelatin. However, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version and use agar-agar instead of gelatin to set it. Just adjust the quantities according to the agar-agar package instructions, and enjoy a vegan tea-infused delight!