Aperol-Infused Panna Cotta with Orange Blossom

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Silky Italian custard infused with Aperol's citrus notes, balanced by delicate orange blossom water for a sophisticated finish. This Italian-inspired recipe, ready in about 15 minutes, layers heavy cream, Aperol, orange blossom water into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 280 cal/serving
Build a week of meals around this recipe → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Affiliate disclosure: AislePrompt may earn a commission on qualifying purchases made through Amazon links, at no additional cost to you. See our policy →

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Cookware & pots → Shop all kitchen tools →

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Soak 2 gelatin sheets in cold water for 5 minutes to bloom.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 cups heavy cream in a saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling, then stir in 1/4 cup granulated sugar until dissolved.
  3. Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in 1 oz Aperol and 1/2 tsp orange blossom water until fully combined; the mixture will be slightly thin.
  4. Step 4: Squeeze excess water from the bloomed gelatin sheets and whisk them into the warm cream mixture until completely dissolved.
  5. Step 5: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, then stir in 1 tsp fresh orange zest.
  6. Step 6: Pour into 4 ramekins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set, or until the surface is firm and slightly wobbly when gently nudged.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Aperol-Infused Panna Cotta with Orange Blossom take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Aperol-Infused Panna Cotta with Orange Blossom?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Aperol-Infused Panna Cotta with Orange Blossom?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Aperol-Infused Panna Cotta with Orange Blossom for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Aperol-Infused Panna Cotta with Orange Blossom?

Italian desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

What others are saying

Related recipes