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Panna Cotta Recipe


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5 from 3 reviews

  • Author: Elena
  • Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes (includes chilling time)
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

How to Make Classic Italian Panna Cotta Recipe Easy– Panna cotta is a classic Italian dessert that is creamy, silky, and luxurious. This classic Italian recipe is a fantastic make-ahead dessert for dinner parties or an afternoon treat.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Panna Cotta 

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon pure almond extract (optional)
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
  • 1/4 cup cold water

Easy Berry Sauce

  • 2 cups of mixed berries or only use one variety (such as strawberries and raspberries, or mixed frozen berries)
  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup of water

Instructions

Panna Cotta

  1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water in a single layer and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the gelatin dissolves and softens.
  2. Heat the heavy cream and sugar over medium heat in a large saucepan, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Add in the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
  3. Once the cream mixture is steaming hot (but not boiling), remove it from the heat and add the softened gelatin mixture. Stir with a whisk until the gelatin dissolves completely- 2-3 minutes.
  4. Divide the hot cream mixture evenly among 4-6 individual ramekins, wine glasses, or dessert cups (servings will vary depending on the size of the serving cups). Allow to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Cover tops with plastic wrap and let the panna cotta set in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  5. Once the panna cotta has set, run a knife around the edges of the cups and turn them over onto a serving plate to unmold. You can also serve them directly in the cups.
  6. Serve the panna cotta with your choice of toppings, such as fresh berries, berry sauce (recipe below), chocolate shavings, or caramel sauce.

Easy Berry Sauce

  1. Combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Stir frequently and cook until the berries begin to break down, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
  4. Add the cornstarch mixture to the berry mixture and stir to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. To achieve a puree texture put the berry mixture in a blender and pulse until completely smooth. 
  7. Once cooled, spoon the berry sauce over the top of your panna cotta and serve.

This berry sauce is a delicious and simple way to add some fruity flavor and color to your panna cotta dessert.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy classic Italian panna cotta!

Notes

Here are some top tips for making Italian panna cotta:

  1. Use quality ingredients: Since panna cotta has a simple flavor profile, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients to get the best flavor. Use fresh cream, good quality vanilla extract, and high-quality gelatin.

  2. Don’t overheat the cream: When heating the cream, be careful not to let it come to a boil. This can cause the cream to curdle and result in a grainy texture.

  3. Use the right amount of gelatin: The amount of gelatin used in panna cotta can vary depending on the recipe, but it’s important to use the right amount to ensure that the dessert sets properly. Too little gelatin can result in a runny texture, while too much gelatin can make the panna cotta rubbery.

  4. Let the panna cotta set properly: Once you’ve poured the mixture into the molds, let it set in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. This will give the dessert enough time to set properly and have a smooth texture.

  5. Unmold the panna cotta properly: To unmold the panna cotta, run a knife around the edge of the mold to loosen it, then dip the mold in hot water for a few seconds. This will help the panna cotta release from the mold more easily.

  6. Serve the panna cotta chilled: Panna cotta is best served chilled, so keep it in the fridge until ready to serve.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make a delicious and silky Italian panna cotta that will impress your guests.

  • Prep Time: 5 min
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Sweet
  • Method: Italian
  • Cuisine: Italian