Description
This Orange Berry Panna Cotta Tart is a luscious dessert featuring a naturally sweetened oat and date crust filled with creamy orange-infused panna cotta. The velvety texture of the panna cotta is perfectly balanced by the fresh, zesty orange and the juicy burst of assorted berries on top, making it an elegant and refreshing treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 7 oz dried pitted dates (200 g)
- ⅞ cup hot water (200 ml)
- 2 cups rolled oats (200 g)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (30 g)
For the Filling:
- 2.5 teaspoons gelatin powder (7 g)
- 2 tbsp water (30 ml)
- ⅞ cup milk (200 ml)
- 2 cups heavy cream (500 ml)
- ⅓ cup honey (115 g)
- Zest of 2 organic oranges
For Decoration:
- Orange slices
- Berries of choice (such as blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- Mint or basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Soak the dried dates in hot boiling water for 15-30 minutes to soften them. Grease a 28-30 cm (11-12 inch) tart tin to prevent sticking. In a food processor or blender, combine the soaked dates along with the soaking water, coconut oil, and rolled oats. Process for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and sticky. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared tart tin using a spoon or your hands. Place the tin in the refrigerator while making the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small cup, combine the gelatin powder with water and allow it to bloom for a few minutes. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and honey. Heat over medium heat while whisking until the honey fully dissolves. Reduce the heat to very low and add the bloomed gelatin to the cream mixture, whisking continuously. Be careful not to let the mixture boil as this can affect the gelatin’s setting power. Once the gelatin is fully dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the zest of two organic oranges for vibrant citrus flavor.
- Assemble and Chill: Allow the panna cotta mixture to cool for about 15 minutes at room temperature to avoid melting the crust. Then, pour the cooled filling evenly over the chilled crust in the tart tin. Cover the tart with cling film or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. Refrigerate the tart for 6 to 8 hours, or until fully set and firm to the touch.
- Decorate and Serve: Just before serving, garnish the tart with fresh orange slices, your choice of berries, and fresh mint or basil leaves for a colorful and aromatic finish. Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Do not use more gelatin than specified; 2.5 teaspoons ensures a firm yet velvety panna cotta texture. Excess gelatin will make the panna cotta overly firm or rubbery.
- If you cannot find organic oranges for zesting, substitute with approximately 4 teaspoons of grated orange peel to impart the citrus aroma.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
