- **Whole milk** - 1/2 cup (120 ml) (for a creamy, smooth texture)
**Optional garnish ingredients**:
- **Fresh berries** (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- **Lemon slices** (for decoration)
- **Mint leaves** (for a pop of color and freshness)
- **Whipped cream** (for an extra indulgent touch)
This **easy lemon panna cotta recipe** is perfect for a light, creamy, and refreshing dessert. The combination of **citrusy lemon flavor** and **silky smooth texture** makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
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Steps
# How to Make Lemon Panna Cotta: A Refreshing Dessert Recipe
Lemon panna cotta is a creamy, tangy, and refreshing Italian dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the steps to create a silky-smooth panna cotta with a zesty lemon twist. Let’s get started!
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## **Ingredients for Lemon Panna Cotta**
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Fresh berries or mint leaves for garnish
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Gelatin**
- In a small bowl, sprinkle 1 1/2 teaspoons of gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it bloom for 5-10 minutes until it becomes spongy.
### **2. Heat the Cream Mixture**
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of whole milk, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
- Add the zest of 2 lemons to the mixture for a bright citrus flavor.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm (do not boil).
### **3. Add Gelatin and Lemon Juice**
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it completely dissolves.
- Add 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (if using). Mix well to combine.
### **4. Strain and Pour**
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lemon zest and any lumps, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Pour the mixture into individual ramekins or dessert glasses.
### **5. Chill and Set**
- Let the panna cotta cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
### **6. Serve and Garnish**
- Once set, garnish with fresh berries, a sprig of mint, or a drizzle of lemon curd for an extra burst of flavor.
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## **Tips for Perfect Lemon Panna Cotta**
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Avoid boiling the cream mixture to prevent curdling.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
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This lemon panna cotta recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining creamy richness with a tangy citrus kick. Perfect for dinner parties or a refreshing summer treat, this dessert is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the delightful balance of flavors!
**Keywords:** lemon panna cotta, creamy dessert recipe, Italian dessert, easy panna cotta, tangy lemon dessert, summer dessert ideas, gelatin-based dessert, refreshing dessert.
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By following these steps, you’ll create a delicious and visually stunning lemon panna cotta that’s both SEO-friendly and reader-friendly!