Earl Grey Panna Cotta

Earl Grey Panna Cotta is a silky, elegant dessert infused with the fragrant, citrusy notes of Earl Grey tea. This creamy, lightly sweet treat has a smooth texture that pairs beautifully with honey, fresh berries, or a light citrus drizzle. It’s an easy yet impressive dessert that’s perfect for tea lovers and anyone looking for a refined, make-ahead treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy – The perfect balance of smooth texture and subtle tea flavor.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Sophisticated flavor – Infused with aromatic Earl Grey tea for a unique twist.
• Make-ahead friendly – Ideal for dinner parties or special occasions.
• Customizable toppings – Pair with honey, berries, caramel, or citrus zest.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Heavy cream
• Whole milk
• Granulated sugar
• Earl Grey tea bags (or loose-leaf tea)
• Gelatin powder or sheets
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest (optional, for added brightness)
• Fresh berries or honey (for serving)

Directions

1. Steep the tea – In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and milk over medium heat until warm (do not boil). Add Earl Grey tea bags and let steep for 5-10 minutes, then remove the tea bags.
2. Dissolve the gelatin – In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over a few tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
3. Sweeten the mixture – Add sugar and vanilla extract to the warm cream mixture, stirring until dissolved.
4. Incorporate the gelatin – Stir the bloomed gelatin into the warm mixture until fully dissolved.
5. Strain and pour – Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any tea particles. Pour into ramekins or serving glasses.
6. Chill – Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until set.
7. Serve – Top with fresh berries, honey, or a citrus drizzle before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Honey Earl Grey Panna Cotta – Replace sugar with honey for a floral sweetness.
• Chocolate Twist – Add a little melted white or dark chocolate to the cream mixture.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk or almond milk with agar-agar instead of gelatin.
• Lavender Infused – Add a pinch of dried lavender for extra floral notes.
• Citrus Touch – Add orange or lemon zest for a brighter flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Not recommended, as the texture may change.
• Serving Tip – Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use loose-leaf tea instead of tea bags?

Yes! Use about 2 teaspoons of loose-leaf Earl Grey tea and strain well before setting.

How do I ensure my panna cotta is smooth?

Strain the mixture before pouring into ramekins to remove any lumps or tea particles.

What’s the best way to serve panna cotta?

Serve in the ramekins or unmold onto a plate by dipping the bottom in warm water for a few seconds.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! It’s best when made the day before serving, making it great for dinner parties.

How do I adjust the sweetness?

You can reduce or increase the sugar to taste, or use honey or maple syrup instead.

What can I use instead of gelatin?

Agar-agar is a great vegetarian alternative; adjust the amount according to package instructions.

Can I use decaf Earl Grey tea?

Yes! Decaf works just as well without altering the flavor.

How long does panna cotta take to set?

At least 4 hours in the fridge, but overnight is best for a firm texture.

What pairs well with Earl Grey panna cotta?

Fresh berries, caramel sauce, shortbread cookies, or citrus zest make great pairings.

Can I make this without milk?

Yes! You can use all heavy cream for a richer texture, or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Earl Grey Panna Cotta is an easy yet luxurious dessert that brings a fragrant tea twist to the classic Italian treat. With its silky-smooth texture and delicate citrusy tea notes, this make-ahead dessert is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. Try it with different toppings and enjoy a beautifully infused, creamy delight!

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