Silky, delicate, and soothing, this Chamomile Honey Panna Cotta offers a refined twist on the classic Italian dessert. Infused with the gentle floral notes of chamomile and lightly sweetened with honey, this elegant treat is perfect for ending a meal on a calming and sophisticated note.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This panna cotta stands out for its unique flavor profile and graceful presentation. The chamomile infusion adds a calming, aromatic essence, while honey brings natural sweetness without overpowering the dish. It’s an easy, make-ahead dessert that requires minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers maximum impact with its smooth texture and subtle floral finish. Ideal for dinner parties or a tranquil treat for yourself.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup honey (plus more for drizzling)
• 2 chamomile tea bags or 2 tablespoons dried chamomile flowers
• 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: dried chamomile flowers for garnish

Directions

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, honey, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is steaming, but do not allow it to boil.
3. Remove from heat and add chamomile tea bags or dried flowers. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes to infuse the cream with chamomile flavor.
4. Strain the mixture to remove chamomile. Reheat gently until warm but not hot.
5. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
6. Pour the panna cotta mixture into lightly greased ramekins or silicone molds.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
8. To serve, unmold the panna cotta onto dessert plates, drizzle with honey, and garnish with dried chamomile flowers if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Coconut milk option: Substitute the milk and part of the cream with canned coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Citrus note: Add lemon zest to the cream mixture for a bright, zesty undertone.
• Lavender blend: Mix dried lavender with chamomile for a more complex floral infusion.
• Herbal sweetener: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave for a different sweetness profile.
• Layered look: Pour in layers with different infusions (e.g., vanilla, matcha) for a multi-flavored presentation.

storage/reheating

Store panna cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the gelatin texture will degrade.
To serve, unmold directly from the fridge and garnish just before serving.

FAQs

What does panna cotta mean?

“Panna cotta” is Italian for “cooked cream,” referring to the gently heated cream base that sets with gelatin.

Can I use chamomile tea bags instead of dried flowers?

Yes, two tea bags are equivalent to about two tablespoons of dried chamomile.

Is this dessert overly sweet?

No, the honey provides a subtle sweetness that complements the gentle floral notes of chamomile.

How do I unmold panna cotta cleanly?

Dip the ramekin briefly in warm water, then invert onto a plate and gently tap or shake to release.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, panna cotta can be made up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What if I don’t have gelatin?

You may use agar-agar as a vegetarian substitute, but the texture will be slightly firmer.

Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, almond, oat, or coconut milk can be used, though the consistency and richness may vary.

Why didn’t my panna cotta set?

The gelatin may not have bloomed properly or the mixture was not warm enough to fully dissolve it.

Can I add fruit toppings?

Yes, fresh berries or poached fruit make excellent garnishes for additional texture and flavor.

Is this safe for children?

Yes, chamomile is generally safe in culinary amounts, but always consult a doctor for children under one year, especially with honey.

Conclusion

Chamomile Honey Panna Cotta is an elegant, calming dessert that combines simplicity with sophistication. Its silky texture and gentle floral notes make it a delightful finish to any meal. Whether you serve it at a dinner party or enjoy it as a quiet indulgence, this panna cotta offers a beautiful balance of flavor, aroma, and presentation.

Chamomile Honey Panna Cotta

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Chilled
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delicate and calming dessert, Chamomile Honey Panna Cotta combines silky cream with the floral aroma of chamomile tea and the natural sweetness of honey for a refined, soothing treat.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup honey (plus more for drizzling)
• 2 chamomile tea bags or 2 tablespoons dried chamomile flowers
• 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: dried chamomile flowers for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, honey, and salt. Heat over medium until just steaming—do not boil.
3. Remove from heat, add chamomile, cover, and let steep for 10–15 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture to remove chamomile and gently reheat until warm.
5. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
6. Pour mixture into lightly greased ramekins or silicone molds.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
8. To serve, unmold onto plates, drizzle with extra honey, and garnish with dried chamomile flowers if desired.

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Notes

• Do not let the cream mixture boil; overheating can affect texture.
• Use food-grade dried chamomile for garnish.
• Panna cotta can be made 1–2 days ahead and stored chilled.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 panna cotta
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 30mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 80mg