Lime Panna Cotta: Silky & Refreshing Dessert
My Lime Panna Cotta is a silky, no-bake dessert bursting with fresh citrus flavor. It's incredibly easy to make and perfect for a refreshing, elegant end to any meal.
Prep Time 25 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Chilling Time 4 hours hrs
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
For the Panna Cotta:
- 1 fresh lime
- 35 g fine sugar
- 400 g whole milk
- 200 g heavy cream ≥30% fat
- 20 g gelatin sheets
For Garnish:
- Lime slices
- Lime zest
- Fresh mint leaves optional
Prep the Lime and Gelatin
Wash the lime thoroughly. Use a peeler or zester to remove only the green outer peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.
Cut 20g gelatin sheets into small pieces and soak in a bowl of ice water for 5–8 minutes until soft and elastic. Set aside.
Heat and Mix the Base
In a small saucepan, combine lime peel, 35g sugar, and 400g milk.
Heat gently over low heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves and lime aroma is released.
Heat until small bubbles form at the edges (50–60°C), then immediately remove from heat.
Combine Gelatin and Cream
Squeeze excess water from gelatin sheets and add to the warm milk mixture. Stir until fully dissolved.
Add 200g heavy cream and stir for 1–2 minutes until fully combined. This forms the lime panna cotta mixture.
Strain and Chill to Set
Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove zest and any undissolved bits.
Pour evenly into pudding cups or molds and gently tap to release air bubbles.
Refrigerate at 0–4°C for at least 4 hours until fully set (should jiggle slightly but feel firm and bouncy).
Decorate and Serve
Once set, garnish with lime slices, lime zest, or fresh mint leaves. Serve chilled for the best refreshing flavor.