Description
Panna Cotta is a classic Italian dessert that features a creamy, smooth custard made from a blend of rich heavy cream and milk, gently set with gelatin. This no-bake treat is subtly sweetened and enhanced with vanilla, then chilled to perfection. It’s a delightful, elegant dessert served topped with fresh berries or a luscious fruit sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin powder
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- Fresh berries or fruit sauce, for topping
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin powder over 3 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes until the gelatin softens and blooms.
- Heat Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling to avoid curdling.
- Dissolve Gelatin: Remove the hot cream mixture from the heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until it fully dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the cream with a rich flavor.
- Pour and Chill: Pour the prepared mixture evenly into 6 ramekins or dessert glasses. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the panna cotta is set and firm to the touch.
- Serve: Before serving, add fresh berries or a drizzle of your favorite fruit sauce on top to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, infuse the cream with a vanilla bean pod or citrus zest during heating, then remove before adding gelatin.
- To unmold panna cotta easily, briefly dip ramekins in warm water and invert onto serving plates.
- Substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative to create a vegan-friendly version when using agar-agar or another gelatin substitute.
