Desserts > Dessert Presentation > Serving Suggestions > Accompaniments (e.g., coffee, tea, dessert wines)

Lavender Honey Panna Cotta with Almond Tuile

Delight your guests with this elegant Lavender Honey Panna Cotta. The creamy, smooth texture of the panna cotta is infused with delicate floral notes of lavender and the sweetness of honey. Served with a crisp almond tuile for added texture, this dessert is a sophisticated and visually appealing treat.

Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes (including almond tuile)
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 500 ml Heavy Cream
  • 120 ml Whole Milk
  • 60 ml Honey
  • 1 tbsp Dried Lavender Flowers
  • 7 g Gelatin Powder
  • 30 ml Cold Water
  • 50 g Almond Flour
  • 50 g Powdered Sugar
  • 1 Egg White
  • 20 g Melted Butter

Panna Cotta Preparation

In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin powder over cold water and let it bloom for 5-10 minutes. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, honey, and dried lavender flowers. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is just simmering. Do not boil. Remove from heat and let steep for 15-20 minutes to infuse the lavender flavor.

Almond Tuile Preparation

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). In a bowl, whisk together almond flour and powdered sugar. Add egg white and melted butter, mix until a smooth batter forms. On a parchment-lined baking sheet, spread thin circles of batter. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges. Immediately remove from baking sheet and shape while still warm (e.g., drape over a rolling pin for a curved shape). Let cool completely and harden.

Straining and Setting the Panna Cotta

Strain the cream mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lavender flowers. Gently heat the bloomed gelatin in the microwave for 10 seconds until it dissolves. Add the dissolved gelatin to the warm cream mixture and stir until well combined. Pour the mixture into ramekins or small glasses. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until set.

Serving the Panna Cotta

To unmold the panna cotta, gently loosen the edges with a knife. Dip the bottom of the ramekin in warm water for a few seconds to help release it. Invert onto a serving plate. Alternatively, serve directly in the ramekins. Garnish with fresh lavender sprigs, a drizzle of honey, and an almond tuile. Serve chilled.

Serving Suggestions

Present the Panna Cotta on a chilled plate. A delicate sprig of fresh lavender placed next to the dessert will enhance the aroma and visual appeal. Serve the almond tuile alongside or gently placed on top of the panna cotta.

Accompaniments

This Lavender Honey Panna Cotta pairs beautifully with a light-bodied herbal tea, such as chamomile or Earl Grey, which will complement the floral notes. A Moscato d'Asti dessert wine, with its light sweetness and delicate bubbles, would also be an excellent choice. For a coffee pairing, consider a lightly roasted Ethiopian coffee with floral and citrus notes.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 200-250 kcal, Carbohydrates: 15-20g, Protein: 3-5g, Fat: 15-20g (Note: This is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used).

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

This dessert is moderately high in fat due to the heavy cream. You can substitute some of the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk to reduce the fat content. Adjust the amount of honey to your preference. Consider using a sugar substitute in the almond tuiles to reduce the sugar content.

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FAQ

  • Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

    Yes, you can use fresh lavender flowers, but you will need to use about twice the amount. Ensure that the lavender is culinary-grade and pesticide-free.
  • Can I make this dairy-free?

    Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk, respectively. Be aware that this will alter the flavor and texture of the panna cotta.