There is something utterly enchanting about the delicate harmony of floral rose notes paired with the sweet, tropical allure of lychee in a silky smooth dessert. This Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe brings that dream to life with a creamy, no-bake creation that feels like a little celebration in every spoonful. It’s the kind of dessert that’s both elegant and approachable, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a moment of bliss. Soft, fragrant, and effortlessly gorgeous, it’s a true gem you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe is refreshingly simple. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor, creating the perfect texture, and delivering that enchanting pink hue that’s as inviting as it is beautiful.
- Heavy cream: The backbone of richness, lending the panna cotta its luxuriously smooth texture.
- Whole milk: Lightens the cream just enough to balance the dessert’s weight without losing silkiness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the panna cotta gently so the lychee and rose shine through without being overpowering.
- Rose water: Infuses a subtle, fragrant floral note that defines this recipe’s signature character; use sparingly for the best effect.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, rounding out the flavor beautifully.
- Unflavored powdered gelatin: The magic ingredient that sets the panna cotta into a luscious, spoonable firmness.
- Cold water: Activates the gelatin, ensuring a smooth, even set.
- Lychee puree: The star fruit flavor packed into every bite—fresh or canned both work wonderfully.
- Fresh lychees and edible rose petals (optional): Perfect garnishes for an elegant and fresh finish.
How to Make Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
First, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This step might seem simple, but it’s crucial as the gelatin blooms and becomes ready to dissolve smoothly into the creamy mixture without clumps.
Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture
While the gelatin is blooming, gently heat the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir patiently until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is just hot enough to steam, but not boiling. This careful heating ensures a silky texture and a balanced sweetness that’s the perfect base for the flavors to shine.
Step 3: Combine Gelatin with Cream
Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it’s fully dissolved. This step is where the magic happens, turning the creamy base into something that will set beautifully while maintaining that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
Step 4: Add Rose Water, Vanilla, and Lychee Puree
Next, whisk in the rose water, vanilla extract, and the vibrant lychee puree. This trio transforms the cream into a fragrant, tropical delight—the rose water giving a delicate floral kiss, vanilla adding comforting warmth, and lychee lending sweet, juicy brightness.
Step 5: Pour and Chill
Pour the mixture into pretty serving glasses or molds. Allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours or until totally set. Patience pays off here with a panna cotta that jigs just gently when shaken and slices through with irresistible creaminess.
How to Serve Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your panna cotta by adorning it with fresh lychees for an extra burst of juicy sweetness and a few edible rose petals for a romantic touch. These additions do more than look pretty—they enhance the experience by echoing the flavors in the dessert and adding a playful texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This panna cotta shines all on its own, but if you’re thinking of pairing it, light and fresh fruit salads or a crisp biscuit provide lovely accompaniments without competing with its subtle flavors. A sparkling rosé or a fragrant jasmine tea also make wonderful partners to this dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, layer this panna cotta with a tart lychee jelly in a clear glass to create elegant, colorful layers. Or serve it in petite jars for individual portions that look phenomenal at parties or special occasions. Adding delicate gold leaf or a drizzle of rose syrup can also elevate the presentation beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover panna cotta can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled maintains the perfect texture and fresh flavor. Be sure to cover tightly to prevent any surrounding fridge odors from mingling with the delicate rose and lychee essence.
Freezing
It’s best to enjoy panna cotta fresh, as freezing can alter its creamy texture and cause it to become a bit grainy or watery upon thawing. However, if you must freeze, do so before chilling and set it frozen in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
Reheating
This dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if it’s too firm straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use dried rose petals instead of rose water?
Dried rose petals have a lovely aroma but won’t provide the concentrated floral flavor that rose water offers. For this recipe, the rose water is key to achieving that signature taste, so it’s best to stick with it.
Is there a vegan alternative for this Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and replace gelatin with agar-agar to create a plant-based version. Just be sure to follow agar-agar instructions closely as it sets differently than gelatin.
Can I use fresh lychees instead of canned lychee puree?
Yes, fresh lychees are fantastic when pureed—they bring a natural sweetness and a fresher taste, though canned lychee puree works perfectly well and is more convenient year-round.
How strong should the rose water flavor be?
Rose water can be quite potent, so start with less and taste as you go. The idea is a delicate, fragrant hint—not an overpowering floral taste. Adjust according to your preference.
How long does it take for the panna cotta to set?
It usually needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to fully set, but overnight chilling often yields the best texture and flavor development.
Final Thoughts
Making this Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe is a joyful experience that rewards you with a dessert that feels like a special occasion, even on an ordinary day. Its elegant simplicity, paired with the unique and refreshing flavors, makes it a memorable treat to share with friends and family. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becoming a cherished favorite in your repertoire!
Print
Litchi Rose Panna Cotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Litchi Rose Panna Cotta is a delicate and refreshing no-bake dessert combining the creamy richness of panna cotta with the floral fragrance of rose water and the sweet, tropical flavor of lychee. Perfect for warm days or elegant gatherings, it offers a smooth texture with optional garnishes of fresh lychees and edible rose petals for a visually stunning presentation.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons rose water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons unflavored powdered gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1/2 cup lychee puree (from canned or fresh lychees)
Garnish
- Fresh lychees (optional)
- Edible rose petals (optional)
Instructions
- Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 5–10 minutes so it softens and blooms.
- Heat Cream Mixture: Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is hot but does not boil.
- Dissolve Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the bloomed gelatin to the hot cream mixture. Stir continuously until the gelatin fully dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Flavors and Puree: Stir in the rose water, vanilla extract, and lychee puree. Whisk gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Pour and Chill: Pour the mixture into serving glasses or molds. Allow the panna cotta to cool slightly at room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator.
- Set Dessert: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is firm and set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh lychees and edible rose petals if desired, adding an elegant and fresh touch to the dessert.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of rose water according to your taste preference, as it can be quite fragrant and strong.
- For a vegan alternative, substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and use agar-agar instead of gelatin.
- You can add a lychee jelly layer underneath or on top of the panna cotta for added texture and visual appeal.
