Matcha Panna Cotta combines the rich, creamy texture of traditional Italian panna cotta with the unique, earthy flavor of matcha green tea.
Panna cotta is a smooth, chilled dessert made from cream, sugar, and gelatin, and matcha brings an added layer of depth with its slightly bitter yet sweet taste.
You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
It offers a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with matcha’s distinctive flavor.
Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or just looking for a unique dessert, this panna cotta is a crowd-pleaser that balances sweetness and earthiness in every bite.
How to Make Matcha Panna Cotta: At A Glance
- Bloom gelatin in cold water for 5-7 minutes.
- Heat cream, milk, and sugar until it just simmers—avoid boiling.
- Whisk in matcha until fully dissolved, then add the bloomed gelatin.
- Pour into greased ramekins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Unmold by dipping ramekins in warm water, and serve with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients Overview
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk: Provides a smooth and creamy base for the panna cotta.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Adds richness and enhances the texture.
- 2 teaspoons gelatin (or 2 teaspoons agar powder for a vegan option): Helps set the panna cotta into a silky, firm texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance matcha’s natural bitterness.
- 2 teaspoons ceremonial grade matcha: High-quality matcha is key for its vibrant color and earthy flavor. Ceremonial grade ensures the best taste and appearance.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Complements the matcha with a subtle sweetness and aroma.
Optional Toppings
- Fresh whipped cream: A light, fluffy addition to complement the panna cotta.
- Black sesame brittle: Adds a crunchy texture that contrasts with the smoothness of the panna cotta.
- Fresh berries (such as raspberries): Tart and sweet, they add a burst of freshness to balance the dessert.
- Mint leaves: A refreshing garnish that enhances both flavor and presentation.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of gelatin (or agar for a vegan option) over 2 tablespoons of cold water.
Let it sit for 5–7 minutes to allow the gelatin to absorb the liquid and soften (bloom).
If using gelatin sheets, soak them in cold water until soft, then squeeze out the excess liquid before adding.
Step 2: Heat the Cream and Milk
In a saucepan, combine 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, and ½ cup sugar.
Gently heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer.
Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Tip: Keep an eye on the heat and remove the mixture as soon as it starts to bubble around the edges.
Step 3: Whisk in the Matcha
Add 2 teaspoons of ceremonial-grade matcha to the warm cream mixture and whisk vigorously until completely dissolved.
To ensure a lump-free mixture, use a matcha whisk or strain the liquid through a fine sieve.
Step 4: Combine and Set
Once the matcha is fully incorporated, add the bloomed gelatin and stir until completely dissolved.
Pour the mixture into greased ramekins or dessert glasses.
Allow the panna cotta to cool slightly before transferring to the fridge.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until set.
Tips for the Best Matcha Panna Cotta
Milk to Gelatin Ratio
Getting the right milk-to-gelatin ratio is essential for achieving the perfect panna cotta texture.
If the ratio is off, you’ll end up with a dessert that is either too firm or too runny.
A good balance is to use 2 teaspoons of gelatin for every 3 cups of liquid.
This ensures a firm texture that’s still creamy and smooth.
If you’re using a vegan alternative like agar, be sure to adjust the quantities, as agar sets differently than gelatin.
Avoid Overheating
As mentioned earlier, when heating the cream and milk mixture, it’s crucial to avoid boiling.
Overheating can lead to curdling or cause the cream to separate, ruining the smooth texture of your panna cotta.
You only want the mixture to reach a gentle simmer, where small bubbles form around the edges.
This also helps preserve the delicate flavor of the matcha, which can become bitter if overheated.
Perfect Matcha Flavor
Matcha can vary greatly in strength depending on the brand, so it’s important to adjust the amount you use.
Start with 2 teaspoons of matcha and taste the mixture.
If you want a stronger flavor, add a little more until you achieve your preferred taste.
Keep in mind that matcha has a naturally earthy, slightly bitter flavor, so balance it with enough sweetness to complement the dessert.
How to Serve
Unmolding Tips
If you’ve made your Matcha Panna Cotta in ramekins or molds and want to serve it on a plate, the key to unmolding it easily is using warm water.
First, fill a bowl with warm water and dip the ramekin’s bottom in for about 5 seconds.
This will slightly loosen the edges of the panna cotta.
Gently run a knife around the edge if needed, then invert the ramekin onto a plate.
Give it a light shake, and the panna cotta should release smoothly onto the plate.
Presentation Suggestions
For a beautiful and tasty presentation, consider adding a few simple toppings.
A light dusting of matcha powder will enhance the green color and emphasize the dessert’s flavor.
For some texture and visual contrast, top it with black sesame brittle or a handful of fresh berries like raspberries, which balance the sweetness with a bit of tartness.
A few sprigs of mint leaves can also provide a refreshing touch, both in taste and appearance.
Variations of Matcha Panna Cotta
Vegan Option
For a vegan-friendly version of Matcha Panna Cotta, you can easily swap out the dairy and gelatin.
Instead of whole milk and heavy cream, use full-fat coconut milk or a combination of coconut milk and almond milk for a rich, creamy texture.
To replace the gelatin, use agar powder, which works similarly but sets at a slightly firmer texture.
Typically, you’ll need ½ teaspoon of agar powder per cup of liquid.
Make sure to dissolve the agar completely by simmering it with the liquid for about 3-5 minutes.
Adjust the flavor by adding a bit more sweetener, as coconut milk can have a slightly stronger taste compared to dairy.
Flavor Variations
There are plenty of ways to experiment with flavors in Matcha Panna Cotta.
For a fruity twist, try pairing it with a hibiscus gelée or a fruit coulis made from berries or citrus.
The tartness of the fruit beautifully complements the creamy texture and earthy matcha flavor.
You could also experiment with unique toppings like red bean paste or mochi for a Japanese-inspired touch.
For those looking to add depth, a drizzle of miso caramel sauce creates an unexpected savory-sweet combination.
Health Benefits of Matcha
Matcha is well-known for its impressive health benefits, particularly due to its high concentration of antioxidants.
It is rich in catechins, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which is known for its powerful antioxidant properties.
These compounds help combat free radicals in the body, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support overall health.
In addition to its antioxidant benefits, matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress without causing drowsiness.
This, combined with the natural caffeine in matcha, helps boost metabolism and provides sustained energy, making it a great addition to your diet if you’re looking for both mental clarity and a metabolism boost.
Matcha is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, further supporting its role as a healthy addition to desserts like panna cotta.
Conclusion
Matcha Panna Cotta is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines the creamy richness of panna cotta with the earthy flavors of matcha.
It’s easy to make, with minimal ingredients, but delivers a beautiful presentation and delicious taste.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this dessert offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Give it a try—you’ll love how effortlessly it elevates any occasion!
FAQs
Can I Make Panna Cotta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make matcha panna cotta up to 2 days in advance.
It sets beautifully and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for preparing ahead for special occasions.
How Long Can I Store Panna Cotta?
Matcha panna cotta is best stored in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to prevent any skin from forming on the surface.
Can I Make a Vegan Version?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using agar powder instead of gelatin and substituting non-dairy milk like coconut or almond milk.
The result will be slightly firmer but still delicious.
