Perfect Panna Cotta Recipe: A Creamy Italian Classic
Are you looking to impress your guests with a creamy and elegant dessert? Our Panna Cotta Recipe is the perfect choice! This classic Italian dessert boasts a silky texture and a rich flavor profile that’s sure to delight any palate. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday gathering or simply craving a luxurious treat, this Panna Cotta will not disappoint.
Why Panna Cotta?
Panna Cotta, which translates to “cooked cream” in Italian, is renowned for its smooth and delicate consistency. It’s a versatile dessert that can be customized with various sauces and toppings, making it a favorite for any occasion. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your celebration.
Ingredients for Perfect Panna Cotta
Achieving the ideal balance of creamy and firm texture is all about using the right ingredients in the correct quantities. Avoiding low-fat or fat-free substitutions is crucial for the perfect set.
Servings: 6 dessert cups
Ingredients for Panna Cotta:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin (1 packet Knox gelatin)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup + 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
Ingredients for Berry Sauce:
- 2 cups berries, divided (1 cup raspberries and 1 cup quartered strawberries)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Gelatin
Off the heat, place 1 cup of whole milk in a medium saucepan and sprinkle 2 1/2 tsp of unflavored gelatin over the top. Let it stand for 3-5 minutes until the gelatin is softened. Set the pan over medium-low heat and whisk until the gelatin dissolves and the mixture is steaming, about 4-5 minutes. Do not boil to prevent altering the gelatin’s setting properties.
2. Mix the Ingredients
Add 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, 1/2 cup + 1 Tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the gelatin mixture. Continue stirring for about 5 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is steaming. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
3. Combine and Chill
Place 1 cup of sour cream in a medium bowl with a pouring lip. While whisking constantly, gradually add the warm cream mixture. Once the mixture is completely smooth, strain it through a fine mesh sieve if desired to ensure a silky texture. Quickly divide the mixture into 6 glass cups or 8 ramekins. Refrigerate until fully set, typically 4 to 6 hours.
4. Make the Berry Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup raspberries, 1 cup quartered strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice. Bring to a low boil and cook for 4-5 minutes until syrupy. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of fresh berries and remove from heat. Once the syrup is at room temperature or just barely warm, spoon it over the top of the chilled Panna Cottas.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once set, you can serve the Panna Cotta directly in ramekins or follow our tips to unmold. Garnish with a mint or basil leaf, or add any toppings of your choice for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Tips for the Perfect Panna Cotta
- Avoid Low-Fat Substitutions: Full-fat dairy products are essential for the ideal creamy texture.
- Do Not Boil the Gelatin Mixture: Boiling can break down the gelatin, preventing the dessert from setting correctly.
- Strain for Smoothness: Straining the mixture ensures a perfectly smooth and creamy Panna Cotta.
- Chill Properly: Allow ample time for the dessert to set in the refrigerator to achieve the desired firmness.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Panna Cotta by pairing it with other delightful desserts from our Christmas Sugar Cookie Recipe or the rich Eggnog Cake. For a refreshing twist, consider serving it alongside our Cranberry Orange Cheesecake or the indulgent Gingerbread Cake.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 477 kcal
- Carbs: 38g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 34g
Explore More Delicious Recipes
Looking to expand your dessert repertoire? Check out our Hot Chocolate Bombs Recipe for a festive treat or try our Gingerbread Cake Recipe for a seasonal favorite. For lighter options, our Healthy Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a perfect choice.
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