Orange Blossom Honey Panna Cotta with Berry Compote is a delicate and refreshing dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The panna cotta is silky smooth with a gentle sweetness from the orange blossom honey, while the vibrant berry compote adds a tart and fruity contrast that wakes up your taste buds.
I love making this dessert because it feels fancy but is actually quite simple to prepare. The natural floral notes from the orange blossom honey give it a unique twist that makes it stand out from your usual panna cotta. Plus, the berry compote is a great way to use fresh or frozen berries, and it adds just the right amount of color and flavor.
My favorite way to serve this is chilled in small glasses or pretty ramekins, making it perfect for a spring or summer dinner party. It’s one of those treats that everyone seems to enjoy, and I always find myself wanting to make it again soon after the first taste. Plus, it’s a lovely way to end a meal on a light, sweet note without feeling too heavy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orange Blossom Honey: This honey adds a lovely floral aroma that sets this panna cotta apart. If you don’t have orange blossom honey, try any mild, light honey like clover or acacia for a similar gentle sweetness.
Cream & Milk: I use heavy cream and whole milk to achieve a creamy, smooth texture. For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half, but the texture may be less silky.
Gelatin: Gelatin gives panna cotta its signature soft, jiggly firmness. If you prefer a vegetarian option, agar-agar works but follow package instructions closely, as it sets differently.
Mixed Berries: Fresh or frozen berries work well here. I sometimes mix raspberries and blackberries for a nice balance of tartness and sweetness. You can also use blueberries or strawberries depending on what you have.
How Do You Get the Perfect Smooth, Silky Panna Cotta Texture?
Getting panna cotta smooth and creamy is all about properly dissolving the gelatin and gentle heating:
- Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it soften fully before adding it to warm cream. This avoids lumps and ensures it dissolves evenly.
- Heat Cream Gently: Warm the cream and milk slowly—don’t let it boil. Boiling can affect texture and curdle the dairy.
- Mix Well: Stir the softened gelatin into the warm cream mixture thoroughly until fully dissolved. The panna cotta will set smooth and firm after chilling.
- Chill Long Enough: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This lets it fully firm up while keeping that delicate wobble.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small bowls – for blooming gelatin, I like using shallow bowls so it softens evenly.
- Medium saucepan – perfect for gently heating the cream mixture without scorching.
- Whisk – helps dissolve the gelatin smoothly and combines ingredients evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise measurement of honey, cream, and sugar.
- Ramekins or small molds – to serve the panna cotta attractively and unmold easily.
- Serving plates or small bowls – for presentation and adding the berry compote.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use lemon or lavender honey instead of orange blossom for different floral notes that pair well with berries.
- Add a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Chambord to the berry compote for an adult touch.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like mint or basil into the berry compote to add a fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Finish with toasted chopped nuts or a sprinkle of edible flower petals for added texture and visual appeal.
Orange Blossom Honey Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Panna Cotta:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup orange blossom honey
- 2 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp cold water
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Berry Compote:
- 1 cup mixed berries (blackberries, raspberries, or fresh/frozen mixed berries)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp orange zest (optional)
For Garnish:
- Extra orange blossom honey (to drizzle)
- Candied orange peel or zest (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active preparation. Then, the panna cotta needs at least 4 hours to chill and set in the refrigerator before serving. Preparing the berry compote adds around 10 minutes. Overall, plan for about 4 to 5 hours, including chilling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Gelatin:
Sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it softens and becomes spongy.
2. Make the Panna Cotta Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and orange blossom honey. Heat the mixture gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warm and the honey dissolves completely. Avoid boiling.
3. Add the Gelatin and Vanilla:
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until it dissolves fully. Then mix in the vanilla extract for a lovely depth of flavor.
4. Chill the Panna Cotta:
Pour the panna cotta mixture evenly into 4 to 6 ramekins or molds. Allow to cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until the panna cotta sets firm.
5. Prepare the Berry Compote:
In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, and orange zest if using. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the sauce thickens slightly, about 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool before using.
6. Unmold and Serve:
To unmold, briefly dip each ramekin in warm water for about 5 seconds to loosen the edges. Carefully invert onto serving plates.
7. Assemble and Garnish:
Spoon a generous amount of cooled berry compote over each panna cotta. Drizzle with extra orange blossom honey and add candied orange peel or zest if you like for a fragrant finish.
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and delight in the smooth, floral panna cotta paired with the fresh and tangy berry compote.
Can I Use Frozen Berries for the Compote?
Yes! Frozen berries work perfectly and are often more convenient. Just thaw them slightly before cooking, or add them straight to the saucepan and cook a bit longer until the mixture thickens.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover panna cotta and berry compote separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the compote gently if you prefer it warm before serving again.
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The panna cotta can be made and chilled up to 2 days in advance. Prepare the berry compote the day before or the same day to keep it fresh and vibrant.
What If I Don’t Have Orange Blossom Honey?
No worries! Substitute with a mild-flavored honey like clover or acacia, which will still complement the flavors nicely, though the floral notes will be less pronounced.