Description
Panna Cotta is a classic Italian dessert known for its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and elegant simplicity. This versatile treat is perfect for dinner parties or a sweet indulgence at home, with endless options for flavorings and toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) powdered gelatin (or 4 sheets leaf gelatin)
- 3 tablespoons cold water (for blooming gelatin)
Instructions
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In a small bowl, sprinkle powdered gelatin over cold water and let sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
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In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves and the mixture just starts to simmer. Do not boil.
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Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
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Add vanilla extract (or scraped vanilla bean). Stir to combine.
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Pour the mixture into molds or serving glasses using a ladle or spouted jug.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
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Unmold by dipping molds briefly in warm water and inverting onto a plate.
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Serve plain or topped with fruit compote, caramel, or fresh berries.
Notes
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For a richer Panna Cotta, increase the cream-to-milk ratio.
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Coconut cream or almond milk work well for a dairy-free option, though texture and flavor will vary slightly.
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Adjust gelatin slightly to achieve preferred consistency: less for softer, more for firmer texture.
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Make up to 2 days ahead for easy entertaining.
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Serve with raspberry sauce, chocolate drizzle, or fresh mint for extra flair.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: panna cotta, italian dessert, creamy dessert, easy panna cotta recipe, homemade panna cotta, classic panna cotta, vanilla panna cotta