Blood Orange Panna Cotta

Why This Recipe Works

I love making this Blood Orange Panna Cotta when I want a dessert that feels light, bright, and a little bit fancy without any fuss. Here’s what makes it special:

• Fresh Citrus Flavor: The blood orange juice and zest give this panna cotta a gentle tang and a beautiful aroma. It’s that same sunny citrus vibe I love in my Raspberry Lemon Burnt Basque Cheesecake.
• Creamy but Light: The mix of Greek yogurt and cream makes it silky and rich, but not heavy. It’s smooth enough to feel indulgent while still tasting fresh.
• Simple to Make: No baking, no complicated steps—just a little stirring and chilling. It’s the kind of dessert that looks impressive but comes together easily.
• Beautiful Presentation: The pale orange panna cotta with a bright raspberry coulis on top always looks stunning. A few fresh berries and mint leaves make it picture-perfect with almost no effort.
• Balanced Sweetness: The yogurt and citrus keep the sweetness in check, so every bite feels refreshing. It’s the kind of dessert that leaves you satisfied, not overwhelmed.

Ingredients

• Gelatin – The key to that delicate, wobbly texture. Unflavored gelatin sets the panna cotta without adding taste. You can use powdered or sheet gelatin—just bloom it properly in cold water before adding.
• Cold Water – Used to bloom the gelatin so it dissolves smoothly into the warm cream mixture. Make sure it’s cold so the gelatin hydrates evenly.
• Whipping Cream – Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel. You can use heavy cream if you prefer a slightly denser texture.
• Whole Milk – Lightens the cream mixture and keeps the panna cotta from feeling too heavy. You can swap in half-and-half for a creamier result.
• Sugar – Sweetens the base and balances the tang from the yogurt and citrus. Adjust slightly depending on how sweet your yogurt or oranges are. We’ll also use it in the coulis.
• Blood Orange Zest – Brings a fragrant citrus aroma and a hint of bitterness that deepens the flavor. Regular orange zest works if blood oranges aren’t in season.
• Greek Yogurt – Gives the panna cotta a creamy tang and thicker texture. Full-fat yogurt works best, but regular yogurt will make it softer and silkier.
• Blood Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed juice adds bright, tangy flavor and a subtle pink hue. If you can’t find blood oranges, use regular oranges with a splash of lemon juice for balance.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the citrus notes. A small amount of vanilla bean paste can be used for a more aromatic touch.
• Raspberries – Fresh or frozen raspberries create a vibrant, tart coulis that pairs beautifully with the creamy panna cotta.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the coulis and enhances the berry flavor. Fresh lemon juice is best for a clean, crisp finish.

For full list of ingredients and instructions, see recipe card below.

Instructions

1. Bloom Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes gelled.
2. Heat Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine whipping cream, milk, sugar, and blood orange zest. Warm over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling.

3. Add Gelatin: Remove from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
4. Cool Slightly: Let the cream mixture cool for about 5 minutes so the yogurt doesn’t curdle when added.

5. Mix Yogurt Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, blood orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Combine Mixtures: Slowly whisk the warm cream mixture into the yogurt mixture until fully blended.

7. Strain: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove zest and ensure a silky texture.
8. Chill to Set: Divide into glasses or molds. Chill uncovered for 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for 4–6 hours until set.

7. Make Raspberry Coulis: In a small saucepan, simmer raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice for 5–7 minutes. Let cool, then blend and strain for a smooth sauce.
8. Finish & Serve: Spoon raspberry coulis over the chilled panna cotta. Garnish with fresh raspberries and a mint leaf for a pop of color.

For full list of ingredients and instructions, see recipe card below.

Substitutions & Variations

Here are some of my favorite substitutions and variations:

• Citrus Options: I like using blood oranges for their color and tang, but regular oranges, tangerines, or even grapefruit work just as well. Add a splash of lemon juice if you want extra brightness.
• Sweetness Level: If your yogurt or oranges are sweeter, I cut the sugar by a tablespoon or two. For a richer flavor, I sometimes stir in a spoonful of honey when heating the cream.
• Fruit Toppings: You can swap the raspberry coulis for strawberry, blueberry, or even a simple orange syrup. Fresh berries or sliced citrus on top also look and taste great.

FAQs

More Gathering Recipes You’ll Enjoy

• Roasted Beet and Burrata Salad – Enjoy a vibrant roasted beet and burrata salad. This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of beets with juicy oranges and creamy burrata.
• Creamy Orzo Pasta – This Creamy Orzo Pasta is a luxurious and quick side dish, appetizer, or main. Easy to make in one pan on the stove in just 20 minutes.
• Lemon Risotto with Peas and Mascarpone – Lemon Risotto with Mascarpone and Peas has bright notes of zesty lemon, creamy mascarpone cheese, and is finished with peas and chives.
• Penne Alla Vodka Sauce Recipe – This Penne Alla Vodka Sauce Recipe is bright, flavorful, and better than traditional tomato sauce. Freezer-friendly and easy to make!

If you try this Blood Orange Panna Cotta recipe, let me know what you think! Rate and review this recipe in the comments below. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on Instagram @lenaskitchenblog!