By Silky Lemon Panna Cotta with Citrus Syrup is a comfort-food classic made simpler for home cooks. With everyday ingredients and reliable technique, it delivers big flavor with little effort.
Silky Lemon Panna Cotta with Citrus Syrup captures the essence of drinks while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Silky Lemon Panna Cotta with Citrus Syrup becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the Panna Cotta:
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/3 cup granulated sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
2 tablespoons cold water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Citrus Syrup:
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
For Garnish:
Fresh mint leaves
Lemon slices or zest
Optional: a sprinkle of golden sugar crystals
PREPARATION STEPS
Bloom the Gelatin:
In a small bowl, add the gelatin to the cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
Heat the Cream Mixture:
In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and lemon zest. Heat over medium heat until just about to boil—do not let it boil. Remove from heat.
Add Gelatin & Flavor:
Stir the bloomed gelatin into the hot cream mixture until fully dissolved. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Pour & Chill:
Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove zest for a smooth texture. Pour into ramekins or silicone molds. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
Make the Citrus Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, and lemon zest. Simmer on low for about 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Let it cool completely.
Unmold and Serve:
To unmold, dip ramekins briefly in warm water and invert onto serving plates. Spoon citrus syrup over the panna cotta and garnish with fresh mint and lemon slices.
Nutritional Information:
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 200 kcal per serving
Servings: 4 servings
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 0 min | Total: 10 min | Servings: 2 | Calories: ~150 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Breakfast pastries; Light snacks; Fruit salad
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
