If you’re looking to impress with a dessert that feels luxurious yet light and effortlessly elegant, the Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful treat blends the delicate floral notes of rose water with the juicy sweetness of litchis, all enveloped in a creamy, silky panna cotta base. It’s a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to a dreamy garden party, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each element in this recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the richness of the cream to the fragrant touch of rose water, these essentials come together in complete harmony.
- Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): The foundation for a luxuriously creamy and smooth panna cotta texture.
- Whole milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the cream while maintaining richness and tenderness.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens gently without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Rose water (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, romantic floral aroma—adjustable to your liking.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the creaminess with warm, comforting undertones.
- Powdered gelatin (1 tablespoon): The essential ingredient that sets the panna cotta to its perfect jiggle.
- Cold water (2 tablespoons): Used to bloom the gelatin for smooth incorporation.
- Canned litchis, chopped (1/2 cup): Bursts of juicy sweetness folded into the mixture, plus extras for garnish.
- Dried rose petals or edible flowers (optional): An elegant finishing touch adding beauty and subtle fragrance.
How to Make Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Begin by sprinkling the powdered gelatin evenly over cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes to fully bloom. This step is critical because it allows the gelatin granules to absorb moisture and swell, ensuring a smooth final texture without clumps.
Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar completely. Heat the mixture until it is hot to the touch but not boiling—this delicate warmth helps the gelatin dissolve thoroughly in the next step while preserving the freshness of the ingredients.
Step 3: Incorporate Gelatin and Flavors
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the bloomed gelatin until it dissolves entirely with no lumps or graininess. Next, add the rose water and vanilla extract, carefully tasting and adjusting the rose water amount as desired—remember, it’s easier to add more than to take away.
Step 4: Fold in the Litchis
Gently fold the chopped canned litchis into the panna cotta mixture, distributing the juicy sweetness evenly. These little bursts of fruit add an unexpected twist of texture and fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the fragrant rose notes.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Pour the mixture evenly into ramekins or pretty serving glasses. Allow them to cool to room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until completely set. The patience here pays off with a perfectly wobbly, creamy texture that’s absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe
Garnishes
When ready to impress, top each panna cotta with additional diced litchis for a fresh burst of sweetness. Sprinkle dried rose petals or edible flowers on top to elevate the presentation and enhance the floral aroma. These simple garnishes turn this dessert into a miniature work of art.
Side Dishes
To complement the ethereal palate of this panna cotta, serve with light, crisp side dishes such as a delicate green salad with citrus vinaigrette or a fresh berry compote. These sides balance the creamy dessert and add a refreshing contrast to the floral notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special touch, try unmolding the panna cotta onto elegant dessert plates—dip your ramekins in warm water for 10 seconds and invert gently. Alternatively, layer the panna cotta with rose syrup or litchi syrup in parfait glasses for a visually stunning effect. Incorporate edible gold leaf for a truly regal finish that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any panna cotta leftover, simply cover and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days. The smooth texture holds up well, and flavors even meld more over time, making leftovers a delightful bonus.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this delicate dessert, as the creamy texture and gelatin may separate or become grainy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days chilled in the fridge.
Reheating
Since panna cotta is served cold and set, reheating isn’t necessary or advised. Simply remove from the fridge a few minutes before serving to take the chill off slightly and allow the flavors to shine.
FAQs
Can I use fresh litchis instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh litchis bring an even brighter and juicier flavor. Just make sure they are peeled and pitted before chopping. Adjust the amount slightly for personal preference.
How strong should the rose water flavor be?
Rose water varies in intensity across brands, so start with a teaspoon and taste the mixture before adding more. You want a gentle floral undertone that complements rather than overwhelms the litchi sweetness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect dessert option for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Can I substitute gelatin with agar-agar?
Yes, agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian alternative. However, the setting process and texture will differ slightly, so follow the agar-agar package instructions carefully for best results.
What is the best way to serve panna cotta at a dinner party?
Serve chilled in elegant glasses with beautiful garnishes like edible flowers and fresh fruit. You can also prepare them in advance and have them ready to go, freeing you up to enjoy your guests’ company.
Final Thoughts
This Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe is truly a gem worth keeping in your dessert repertoire. Its luscious creaminess paired with delicate floral and fruity notes makes it a standout dish any time you want to add a touch of elegance and charm. Give it a go—the smiles and compliments at your table will be endlessly rewarding.
Print
Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Fusion (Indian–Italian)
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
Litchi Rose Panna Cotta is a delicate, no-bake dessert blending the floral notes of rose water with the sweet, juicy texture of litchis. This creamy panna cotta offers a perfect balance of smooth creaminess and fruity freshness, ideal for a refreshing and elegant treat. The dessert is chilled to set, allowing the rich flavors to meld beautifully, making it a sophisticated fusion of Indian and Italian culinary influences.
Ingredients
Gelatin Mixture
- 1 tablespoon powdered gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Dairy and Flavorings
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon rose water (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit and Garnish
- 1/2 cup canned litchis, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Dried rose petals or edible flowers, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water and let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes until it softens and blooms.
- Heat the Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream, 1/2 cup whole milk, and 1/4 cup sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture becomes hot, but avoid bringing it to a boil.
- Dissolve the Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Flavorings and Fruit: Stir in 1 teaspoon rose water and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, adjusting the rose water according to your taste preference. Gently fold in the chopped litchis to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Pour and Chill: Pour the panna cotta mixture evenly into ramekins or serving glasses. Allow the panna cotta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator.
- Set the Dessert: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the panna cotta is fully set and firm.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top each panna cotta with extra pieces of litchi and optionally garnish with dried rose petals or edible flowers for an elegant touch.
Notes
- Rose water strength varies by brand; start with less and increase according to your preference for a balanced floral flavor.
- To unmold panna cotta, briefly dip ramekins into warm water for about 10 seconds and invert onto serving plates to release the dessert cleanly.
- This panna cotta pairs beautifully with a drizzle of litchi syrup or a delicate rose syrup glaze for enhanced flavor and presentation.
