Name: Rose-Infused Panna Cotta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup 120 ml whole milk – Using fresh milk enhances creaminess. Avoid ultra-pasteurized milk for best results.; 2 cups 480 ml heavy cream – Provides richness and that silky texture that makes panna cotta indulgent.; 1/4 cup 50 g granulated sugar – Sweetens gently; I prefer regular sugar over alternatives for a cleaner texture.; 3 sheets gelatin – Make sure to soak them in cold water first so they dissolve smoothly.; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to balance the floral notes.; 2 tbsp dried rose buds (about 25 buds – Opt for high-quality edible roses; the flavor will be more fragrant.)

Do Share Recipe

I recently tried making Rose-Infused Panna Cotta Recipe at home, and I have to say, it quickly became one of my favorite desserts. There’s something so calming about the delicate floral aroma and the silky texture that makes it feel luxurious without being heavy.

I loved how the subtle rose flavor complemented the creamy custard perfectly. Every spoonful felt like a little indulgence, yet it was surprisingly light. If you enjoy trying creative recipes, you can also enjoy similar ideas like Easy Recipe for Stuffed Pepper Soup.

Ingredients

Here’s what I used to make this dreamy rose panna cotta. I also added a few tips based on my experience.

1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk – Using fresh milk enhances creaminess. Avoid ultra-pasteurized milk for best results.
2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream – Provides richness and that silky texture that makes panna cotta indulgent.
1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar – Sweetens gently; I prefer regular sugar over alternatives for a cleaner texture.
3 sheets gelatin – Make sure to soak them in cold water first so they dissolve smoothly.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to balance the floral notes.
2 tbsp dried rose buds (about 25 buds) – Opt for high-quality edible roses; the flavor will be more fragrant.

Note: several serving as a note of full line under the ingredients quantity.

Variations

You can tweak this recipe based on dietary needs or flavor preferences:

Dairy-free: Replace milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a vegan-friendly version.
Sugar-free: Swap sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol.
Flavor boosts: Add a few drops of rose water or a hint of cardamom for an exotic twist. You might also enjoy pairing it with hearty dishes like Bacon Tortellini Alfredo Recipe.
Presentation: Layer with berry coulis or chocolate drizzle for a visually stunning dessert.

Cooking Time

Here’s the timeline to plan your dessert:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus at least 4 hours chilling)

Equipment You Need

Saucepan – For gently heating the milk, cream, and sugar.
Mixing bowl – To soften and combine the gelatin sheets.
Fine mesh strainer – To remove rose buds and create a smooth custard.
Whisk – To stir the mixture evenly and avoid lumps.
Dessert molds or glasses – To shape the panna cotta beautifully.

How to Make Rose-Infused Panna Cotta

Preparing the Gelatin

I first soaked the gelatin sheets in cold water until soft. This step ensures they melt evenly without forming clumps in the cream mixture.

Heating the Cream Mixture

Next, I combined milk, cream, and sugar in a saucepan and warmed it until it just simmered. I made sure not to boil it because overheating can affect the texture.

Adding Gelatin and Flavor

After squeezing excess water from the gelatin, I stirred it into the warm cream until completely dissolved. Then I added the vanilla and rose buds, letting them steep for 10-15 minutes to infuse the floral aroma.

Straining and Pouring

I strained the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the rose buds and any lumps. Then I poured it evenly into prepared molds for a smooth, elegant finish.

Chilling

Finally, I refrigerated the panna cotta for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step lets it set perfectly into a silky custard-like dessert.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Based on my experience, these small tweaks really elevate the final dessert:

I always use fresh, high-quality cream for the richest texture.
Let the rose buds steep longer if you prefer a stronger floral aroma.
Gently wipe the molds with oil if you plan to unmold for a smooth release.
Patience is key: don’t rush chilling, as panna cotta needs time to set.

How to Serve Rose-Infused Panna Cotta

Serving panna cotta is half the fun! I love to garnish with edible rose petals, a light drizzle of honey, or fresh berries. It’s visually appealing and adds a fresh flavor contrast. You can also serve in individual glasses for a modern presentation or plate it elegantly for a dinner party.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutrition for one serving:

Calories: 484 kcal – A luxurious treat worth savoring slowly.
Protein: 6 g – From milk and cream, adds some nutrition.
Carbohydrates: 18 g – Mostly from sugar, giving a gentle sweetness.
Fat: 45 g – Rich and creamy, the hallmark of panna cotta.

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigeration

You can make panna cotta up to 2 days ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge to maintain its delicate texture.

Freezing

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze panna cotta for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to retain its silky consistency.

Reheating

I don’t recommend reheating; panna cotta is best enjoyed chilled. Warm it gently if needed, but avoid microwave heating to prevent texture changes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why I keep going back to this rose-infused dessert:

Ease of preparation – Minimal ingredients and simple steps make it beginner-friendly.
Versatility – You can adapt it for vegan, sugar-free, or flavored variations.
Elegance – Silky texture and delicate aroma impress at dinner parties.
Relaxing – The subtle rose scent creates a calming dessert experience.
Flavor customization – Add chocolate, fruit, or spices to suit your taste.

This rose-infused panna cotta is my go-to when I want a dessert that feels fancy but is actually simple to make. The balance of creamy custard with gentle floral notes makes it irresistible. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did!

Ben Carraoli