Lemon Vanilla Panna Cotta with Candied Violas
This elegant spring dessert highlights edible viola flowers, known for their soft colors and delicate flavor. The creamy panna cotta provides a smooth vanilla-lemon base while candied violas create a beautiful natural garnish, making the dish ideal for spring celebrations, brunches, or upscale plated desserts.Violas contribute a mild floral note and striking visual presentation when crystallized with sugar.
Servings 6 panna cottas
Calories 260kcal
Ingredients
- Panna Cotta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup coconut milk
- ½ cup allulose or granulated sweetener
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin 7 g
- 3 tbsp cold water for blooming gelatin
- Candied Violas
- 12 fresh edible viola flowers
- 1 egg white
- 3 tbsp fine sugar or powdered sweetener
Instructions
- Prepare Candied Violas
- Lightly whisk the egg white until slightly foamy.
- Using a small brush, gently coat each viola flower with egg white.
- Sprinkle evenly with sugar.
- Place on parchment paper and allow to dry 2–4 hours until crisp.
- Bloom Gelatin
- Place 3 tbsp cold water in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle gelatin over the water.
- Let sit 5 minutes to bloom.
- Heat Cream Mixture
- In a saucepan combine:
- heavy cream
- coconut milk
- sweetener
- lemon zest
- Warm over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Add Gelatin
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
- Add vanilla extract.
- Pour and Chill
- Pour mixture into ramekins or dessert glasses.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Garnish
- Just before serving, top each panna cotta with candied violas.
- Optional additions:
- fresh berries
- lemon zest curls
- a light drizzle of berry coulis
Notes
Texture & Ingredient Notes
- Gelatin creates the classic smooth panna cotta structure.
- Lemon zest balances the richness of cream.
- Candied violas provide both visual appeal and a delicate floral touch.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – 6 servings)
Calories: ~260Total Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg
Sodium: 35 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8 g
Dietary Fiber: 0 g
Sugar Alcohols: 5 g
Net Carbs: ~3 g
Protein: 4 g Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands.
