Panna Cotta is a classic Italian dessert known for its creamy texture and delicate flavor. This no-bake treat is made with cream, sugar, and gelatin, resulting in a silky-smooth custard that can be flavored and served with various toppings, such as fruit coulis or chocolate sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or the seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin (about 1 packet)
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Timing
Making Panna Cotta takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 4 hours for chilling.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin
- Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to soften.
Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract (or vanilla seeds).
- Heat Mixture: Heat the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
Step 3: Add Gelatin
- Dissolve Gelatin: Once the cream mixture is hot, remove it from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin and stir until completely dissolved.
Step 4: Pour into Molds
- Strain (Optional): If you used a vanilla bean, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
- Pour Mixture: Pour the panna cotta mixture into individual ramekins or serving glasses.
Step 5: Chill
- Refrigerate: Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Step 6: Serve
- Unmold (Optional): To unmold, dip the ramekins in warm water for a few seconds, then invert onto a plate.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve with fresh berries, fruit coulis, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. Enjoy this delightful dessert!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Panna Cotta (per serving, based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 15g |
Tips for Customization
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors by adding citrus zest, coffee, or chocolate to the cream mixture.
- Toppings: Top with fresh fruit, berry compote, or crushed cookies for added texture and flavor.
- Dairy Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute part of the cream with Greek yogurt or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Conclusion
Panna Cotta is a simple yet elegant dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and versatility make it a favorite among dessert lovers. Enjoy this delightful recipe!
Panna Cotta Recipe
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
4 hours
Total Time:
4 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- • 2 cups heavy cream
- • 1/2 cup whole milk
- • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or the seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
- • 2 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin (about 1 packet)
- • 3 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes to soften.
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract (or vanilla seeds).
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Remove the cream mixture from the heat.
- Add the bloomed gelatin and stir until completely dissolved.
- If you used a vanilla bean, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
- Pour the panna cotta mixture into individual ramekins or serving glasses.
- Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- To unmold, dip the ramekins in warm water for a few seconds, then invert onto a plate.
- Serve with fresh berries, fruit coulis, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. Enjoy.
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin
Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture
Step 3: Add Gelatin
Step 4: Pour into Molds
Step 5: Chill
Step 6: Serve
