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Panna Cotta

Panna Cotta
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Panna Cotta is a classic Italian dessert known for its luxuriously smooth and irresistibly creamy texture. Made with a few simple ingredients such as heavy cream, sugar, gelatin, vanilla, and milk, it offers an elegant yet easy-to-make treat that can be customized with a variety of flavors and toppings. Perfect for make-ahead preparation, Panna Cotta is ideal for impressing guests with a gourmet feel but minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy cream (full-fat)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons gelatin powder (or 1 packet)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped

Instructions

  1. Soften the Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over a few tablespoons of cold milk or water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until soft and spongy. This ensures the gelatin will dissolve smoothly without clumping.
  2. Heat Cream and Sugar: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Gently warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Avoid boiling to keep the cream silky and rich.
  3. Add Gelatin and Flavor: Remove the cream mixture from heat and whisk in the softened gelatin until completely melted. Stir in vanilla extract or vanilla bean seeds to infuse the creamy base with fragrance and depth.
  4. Pour into Molds: Optionally strain the mixture through a fine sieve for an ultra-smooth finish. Pour evenly into ramekins, glasses, or molds. Let them cool slightly before covering with plastic wrap and refrigerating.
  5. Chill Until Set: Refrigerate the Panna Cotta for at least 4 hours or overnight. The gelatin will gently set the dessert with a characteristic silky wobble ready to serve.

Notes

  • Use full-fat heavy cream for the creamiest texture.
  • Do not boil the cream mixture; heat only until just steaming and sugar dissolves.
  • Always bloom gelatin in cold liquid first to avoid lumps and ensure smooth setting.
  • Straining the mixture before chilling improves smoothness by removing any vanilla pod bits or lumps.
  • Check the set by gently shaking the mold; a slight jiggle means it’s perfectly set.
  • Leftover Panna Cotta can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture and create icy crystals.
  • This dessert is best served chilled and should not be reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: Panna Cotta, Italian dessert, creamy dessert, gelatin dessert, no-bake dessert, vanilla panna cotta, easy dessert, make-ahead dessert

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/panna-cotta/