Name: Panna Cotta: A Creamy Italian Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487223H7M23S
Total time: PT-487223H7M23S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped); 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin; 3 tablespoons cold water; 1 ½ cups mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, etc.); ¼ cup granulated sugar (for compote); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for compote)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Panna Cotta is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, yet it feels like a gourmet dessert. The creamy, smooth texture is paired with a subtle vanilla flavor that can be elevated by the addition of fresh fruit, chocolate, or caramel. It can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a great option when you’re looking for a make-ahead dessert that will impress guests. Whether you serve it in individual cups or a larger dish, Panna Cotta is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the panna cotta:

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped)
2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
3 tablespoons cold water

For the fruit compote (optional):

1 ½ cups mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, etc.)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the panna cotta:

Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will allow the gelatin to bloom (soften) and dissolve properly.
Heat the cream and milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. If using a vanilla bean, split it and scrape the seeds into the mixture, adding the pod as well. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot (but not boiling).
Add the gelatin: Once the cream mixture is hot, remove it from the heat and add the bloomed gelatin. Stir well until the gelatin is completely dissolved. If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
Strain the mixture: If you used a vanilla bean, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the bean pod and any remaining bits of vanilla seeds.
Pour into molds: Pour the panna cotta mixture into individual serving cups or ramekins. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

Make the fruit compote (optional):

Prepare the fruit: In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit breaks down and the mixture thickens slightly.
Cool: Remove the compote from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. You can also refrigerate it to keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.

Serve the panna cotta:

Once the panna cotta has set, carefully run a knife around the edge of the ramekins to loosen them if needed. To unmold, dip the bottoms of the ramekins in warm water for a few seconds, then gently flip them onto plates.
Spoon a small amount of the fruit compote over the top of the panna cotta (or serve it with fresh berries, caramel, or chocolate sauce if preferred).
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total time: 4-6 hours

Variations

Flavored panna cotta: Add different flavorings to the cream mixture, such as coffee, chocolate, or citrus zest. For a chocolate panna cotta, melt chocolate into the cream mixture before setting it.
Vegan panna cotta: Substitute the dairy with coconut milk and use agar-agar (a plant-based gelatin substitute) instead of powdered gelatin to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
Caramel panna cotta: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the panna cotta for a rich, sweet addition that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store panna cotta in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3-4 days. The creamy texture will remain smooth, but it’s best enjoyed within a couple of days.
Reheating: Panna cotta should be served cold, so there is no need to reheat it. If the topping or compote has been stored separately, warm it up gently before serving.

FAQs

Can I make panna cotta without gelatin?

Gelatin is essential for achieving the smooth, set texture of panna cotta. However, you can substitute gelatin with agar-agar if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative. Be sure to adjust the amount of agar-agar according to the package instructions, as it sets more firmly than gelatin.

Can I make panna cotta ahead of time?

Yes! Panna cotta is an ideal make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, which makes it a great option for dinner parties or gatherings. Just be sure to allow enough time for it to set in the fridge.

Can I use a different kind of milk?

Yes, you can use any type of milk in panna cotta, such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk, for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, especially with plant-based milk.

Can I use flavored extracts in panna cotta?

Yes, you can experiment with different extracts like almond, hazelnut, or coconut for a unique twist on this classic dessert. Just add a few drops to the cream mixture before heating.

How do I get the panna cotta out of the ramekin?

To easily remove the panna cotta from the ramekin, dip the bottom of the ramekin in warm water for 10-15 seconds to loosen the edges, then gently invert it onto a plate. You can also run a knife around the edge to help release it.

Conclusion

Panna Cotta is a timeless, elegant dessert that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. Its creamy, smooth texture and delicate vanilla flavor make it a versatile base for a wide variety of toppings, from fresh fruit to caramel or chocolate. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as a weeknight treat, panna cotta is guaranteed to impress. With its minimal ingredients and ease of preparation, this Italian classic is sure to become a go-to dessert for your collection.