Name: Matcha White Chocolate Panna Cotta
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin; 1/4 cup cold water; 2 teaspoons matcha powder; Optional garnishes: whipped cream, fresh berries, edible flowers, matcha dust

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The creamy white chocolate layer perfectly complements the vibrant green matcha layer, creating a dessert that is both visually stunning and delicious. Matcha adds a unique, slightly bitter taste that balances the sweetness of the white chocolate, while the panna cotta’s smooth texture makes every bite melt in your mouth. This dessert is incredibly easy to prepare, and with its elegant presentation, it’s sure to impress guests at your next dinner party or special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta Base

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Gelatin

2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
1/4 cup cold water

For the Matcha Layer

2 teaspoons matcha powder

Optional Garnishes

Whipped cream
Fresh berries
Edible flowers
Matcha dust

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

Sprinkle the powdered gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom. This will activate the gelatin and allow it to dissolve properly in the warm cream mixture.

Step 2: Heat the Base

In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.

Step 3: Add White Chocolate

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the white chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth. Make sure the chocolate is completely incorporated into the cream mixture.

Step 4: Dissolve the Gelatin

Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm cream and chocolate mixture. Whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

Step 5: Divide the Base

Divide the mixture into two equal portions in separate bowls.

Step 6: Flavor with Matcha

In one of the bowls, whisk in the matcha powder until fully incorporated. Use a fine sieve to sift the matcha powder into the mixture to prevent any clumps. Leave the other portion plain (white chocolate only).

Step 7: Layer the Panna Cotta

Pour the matcha mixture into serving glasses or ramekins, filling them halfway. Refrigerate for 30-40 minutes, or until the matcha layer is set. This will create a firm layer before adding the white chocolate layer.

Once the matcha layer is set, carefully pour the white chocolate mixture on top of the matcha layer. Refrigerate for an additional 4-6 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully set.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Once the panna cotta has set, garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, edible flowers, or a light dusting of matcha powder for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

Add Fruit Layers: You can add a fruit layer, such as a raspberry or strawberry compote, between the matcha and white chocolate layers for extra sweetness and flavor.
Vegan Option: Replace the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk and use a vegan white chocolate substitute. You can also use agar agar instead of gelatin.
Flavored Whipped Cream: Infuse the whipped cream with vanilla, matcha, or even orange zest for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the panna cotta in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The texture and flavor will remain smooth and fresh.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the panna cotta once thawed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, you can use any milk of your choice, such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

2. Can I use white chocolate bars instead of chips?

Yes, you can chop up white chocolate bars into small pieces and use them in place of chips. Just make sure the chocolate is fully melted and smooth when incorporated into the cream.

3. How do I know when the panna cotta is set?

The panna cotta is set when it’s firm to the touch and has a silky texture. You can test it by gently pressing on the top of the panna cotta—it should hold its shape without leaving an indentation.

4. Can I make this recipe without matcha?

Yes, you can skip the matcha and make a white chocolate panna cotta. Alternatively, you can infuse the cream with other flavors, such as coffee, vanilla, or citrus zest.

5. Can I make the panna cotta ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead. It needs to be chilled for several hours or overnight, making it a great option for preparing in advance.

6. How can I make the panna cotta more creamy?

For an even creamier texture, you can increase the amount of heavy cream and reduce the amount of milk. Alternatively, you can use mascarpone cheese or cream cheese for extra richness.

7. Can I add more layers to the panna cotta?

Yes, you can add more layers by alternating different flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or fruit purées between the matcha and white chocolate layers.

8. Can I serve this panna cotta warm?

No, panna cotta is best served chilled, as the cooling process helps set the gelatin and gives it its signature creamy texture.

9. Can I use gelatine sheets instead of powdered gelatin?

Yes, you can substitute gelatine sheets for powdered gelatin. Just make sure to bloom the sheets in water according to the package instructions before adding them to the warm cream mixture.

10. How do I make sure my matcha layer doesn’t have lumps?

Use a fine sieve to sift the matcha powder into the cream mixture to avoid clumps. This ensures the matcha is fully incorporated and smooth.

Conclusion

This Matcha White Chocolate Panna Cotta is a show-stopping dessert with a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a slight bitterness from the matcha. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, with its two beautiful layers. Easy to prepare and perfect for special occasions, this panna cotta will surely impress your guests. The smooth texture, complemented by the delicate matcha and white chocolate flavors, makes it an unforgettable treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

Step 2: Heat the Base

Step 3: Add White Chocolate

Step 4: Dissolve the Gelatin

Step 5: Divide the Base

Step 6: Flavor with Matcha

Step 7: Layer the Panna Cotta

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Servings and Timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of milk instead of whole milk?

2. Can I use white chocolate bars instead of chips?

3. How do I know when the panna cotta is set?

4. Can I make this recipe without matcha?

5. Can I make the panna cotta ahead of time?

6. How can I make the panna cotta more creamy?

7. Can I add more layers to the panna cotta?

8. Can I serve this panna cotta warm?

9. Can I use gelatine sheets instead of powdered gelatin?

10. How do I make sure my matcha layer doesn’t have lumps?

Conclusion

Matcha White Chocolate Panna Cotta

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition