This silky Italian dessert, whose name means “cooked cream,” is all about simplicity and elegance. Lightly sweetened and infused with vanilla, panna cotta is the perfect make-ahead treat for dinner parties or a romantic night in.
🍴 Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) unflavored gelatin
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: fresh berries, berry compote, caramel sauce, or shaved chocolate
🔥 Instructions
Bloom the Gelatin:
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to bloom and soften.
Heat the Cream:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is steaming—but not boiling.
Combine and Add Flavor:
Remove from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Pour and Chill:
Pour the mixture into ramekins or dessert glasses. Allow to cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until set.
Serve:
Unmold by dipping ramekins in warm water for a few seconds and inverting onto plates, or serve directly in the glasses. Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of compote for a beautiful finish.
📦 Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Create the Best Panna Cotta
- 🥄 Unflavored Gelatin Packets — A key ingredient to help your panna cotta set perfectly every time.
- 🥛 Heavy Cream – Shelf-Stable Cartons — Rich, creamy, and perfect for indulgent desserts.
- 🍶 Glass Ramekins – Set of 6 — Great for both setting and serving panna cotta beautifully.
- 🍫 Pure Vanilla Extract — Adds warm, fragrant flavor that defines the dessert.
- 🍓 Berry Compote – Ready to Spoon — An easy and elegant topping to contrast the creamy base.
💡 Helpful Tip: For a super smooth panna cotta, strain the cream mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the molds. Want to impress guests? Serve in stemless wine glasses and garnish with mint and zest for a restaurant-quality presentation.
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