Panna Cotta is a luxuriously smooth Italian dessert that epitomises simple elegance. This creamy treat is renowned for its silky texture and delicate sweetness, making it a favourite among dessert lovers. What makes Panna Cotta especially appealing is its ease of preparation, requiring only a few basic ingredients and minimal active cooking time. It's the perfect dessert to impress guests or to conclude a romantic dinner. Since it needs to be chilled, it's ideal for preparing ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy your evening without last-minute kitchen hustle.
Panna Cotta has long been my go-to dessert recipe for any occation. Its perfect for a classy dinner with friends, but you can also throw it together and enjoy alone. I've tried a few different variants, but this is certainly my favourite recipe to make it so far!
2 1/4 teaspoons powdered gelatin (about one packet)
3 tablespoons cold water
How to make Panna Cotta step-by-step
Prepare the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the gelatin to soften and swell.
Heat the cream mixture: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Add the vanilla bean pod and seeds (or vanilla extract). Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, just until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
Dissolve the gelatin: Remove the vanilla bean pod from the cream mixture. Add the softened gelatin to the hot cream mixture and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
Pour into molds: Divide the mixture into serving dishes or molds. You can use ramekins, small bowls, or silicone molds for easy unmolding.
Chill: Refrigerate the Panna Cotta for at least 4 hours, or until set. It should feel firm to the touch and wiggle slightly when gently shaken.
Serve: Serve the Panna Cotta in the molds or unmold onto plates. It's delightful on its own or garnished with fresh berries, fruit coulis, or a drizzle of honey.
