Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Classic Panna Cotta: A Simple Recipe for a Delicious Italian Dessert


  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 265 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in a classic Italian Panna Cotta, a creamy dessert with a silky texture and rich vanilla flavor. Set with gelatin, it’s perfect for any occasion and can be elegantly garnished with fresh berries and vibrant fruit coulis.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
  • Fresh berries (for garnish, optional)
  • Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
  • Fruit coulis or sauce (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Pour cold water into a small bowl. Sprinkle gelatin powder over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves (do not boil).
  3. Remove from heat and stir in pure vanilla extract.
  4. Microwave the bloomed gelatin for 10-15 seconds until melted. Stir well, then whisk into the warm cream mixture until fully combined.
  5. Lightly grease your serving dishes or molds with cooking spray or oil.
  6. Pour the panna cotta mixture into prepared molds, filling them about 3/4 full.
  7. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  8. Select berries (e.g., strawberries) for the coulis.
  9. Blend 1 cup of fresh strawberries, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a squeeze of lemon juice until smooth.
  10. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve for a smoother texture, if desired.
  11. Refrigerate the coulis until ready to serve.
  12. Ensure the panna cotta is firm but jiggles slightly in the center.
  13. Run a knife around the edge, invert onto a plate, and gently shake to release. Dip in warm water if needed.
  14. Drizzle fruit coulis over the panna cotta, add fresh berries, and a sprig of mint.
  15. Enjoy this creamy dessert with friends and family!

Notes

  • For a flavored panna cotta, consider infusing the cream with herbs or citrus zest before adding the gelatin.
  • The fruit coulis can be made with any berries or fruits of your choice.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes