
Classic Italian Panna Cotta
Creamy, silky Italian dessert with vanilla and a hint of gelatin, served with berry coulis.
15 mins
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
4
Servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- 2 tsp unflavored gelatin
- 2 tbsp cold water
- 1 cup mixed berries (for coulis)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for coulis)
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Bloom the gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes spongy.
Heat the cream mixture: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Split the vanilla bean and scrape seeds into the mixture (or add vanilla extract). Heat over medium until steaming but not boiling.
Dissolve gelatin: Remove the cream mixture from heat. Add the bloomed gelatin and stir until completely dissolved.
Strain and pour: Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a jug. Pour into ramekins or glasses. Let cool to room temperature.
Chill: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Make berry coulis: Blend berries and powdered sugar until smooth. Strain to remove seeds. Drizzle over set panna cotta before serving.
Serve: To unmold, dip ramekins in hot water for a few seconds, then invert onto plates. Garnish with fresh berries and mint.
Chef's Tips
- Gelatin Tip: Do not boil the cream mixture after adding gelatin, as it may lose its setting power.
- Texture Control: For firmer panna cotta, increase gelatin by 1/2 tsp. For softer, reduce by 1/2 tsp.
- Flavor Variations: Infuse cream with citrus zest, lavender, or espresso for different flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: Use agar-agar instead of gelatin (follow package instructions for substitution).
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with caramel sauce or chocolate shavings for a decadent twist.