If you’re looking to wow your guests with a dessert that feels both luxuriously creamy and delightfully festive, this Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy panna cotta made with rich, commercially prepared eggnog offers a subtly spiced, silky base, while the vibrant cranberry sauce adds a tart, spirited kick with hints of citrus and orange liqueur. It’s the perfect holiday or winter treat that blends comforting flavors with an elegant presentation, sure to become a cherished tradition.

Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simplicity; every ingredient plays a vital role in crafting that smooth, flavorful dessert with a pop of bright, spirited sauce. No complicated steps or exotic items—just familiar components that come together beautifully.

Cold water: Essential to blooming the gelatin, which thickens your creamy base without any lumps.
Powdered gelatin: The secret to that signature panna cotta texture—firm yet tender and silky.
Commercially prepared eggnog: Choose a thick, sweet variety for maximum creaminess and that cozy holiday flavor.
Fresh cranberries: Bright and tart, these create a vibrant, jewel-red sauce that balances the panna cotta’s sweetness.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cranberry sauce just right, taming the berries’ natural sharpness.
Orange zest: Adds a fresh, aromatic citrus zing that lifts the sauce’s flavor.
Orange juice: Brings acidity and liquid to cook down the cranberries perfectly.
Orange liqueur (optional): Adds a warm boozy note, enhancing the sauce decadently—the “spiked” part of this recipe.
Fresh or sugared cranberries for garnish: Adds color and festive charm to your dessert cups.
Fresh rosemary sprigs: Imparts a subtle piney aroma and makes for an eye-catching presentation.

How to Make Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

Start by pouring 2 tablespoons of cold water into a small cup. Sprinkle the powdered gelatin evenly on top and let it sit for several minutes until it fully absorbs the water and becomes spongy. This step is crucial because it ensures the gelatin melts smoothly into the warm eggnog later, leaving you with a silky panna cotta that’s perfectly set.

Step 2: Heat the Eggnog and Dissolve Gelatin

Heat 2 cups of your commercial eggnog gently on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling—watch carefully to avoid curdling. Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it fully dissolves. This creates the luscious, creamy base that will chill into the panna cotta’s signature tender texture.

Step 3: Chill the Panna Cotta

Divide the eggnog mixture evenly, pouring about 1/3 cup into each of six 4-ounce dessert glasses. Place all glasses on a baking sheet to keep them steady, then transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for a minimum of 2 hours until the panna cotta firms beautifully into a silky, delicate shape.

Step 4: Prepare the Spiked Cranberry Sauce

While the panna cotta chills, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and orange juice in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil on medium-high heat. As the cranberries begin to pop, reduce to a simmer and mash them against the pot’s bottom with a spatula. Cook until you have a jam-like consistency, then stir in the orange liqueur for that fantastic spike of flavor. If the sauce gets too thick, loosen it by adding water one tablespoon at a time until it pours smoothly but retains its rich texture. Cool completely, then refrigerate.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dessert

Once your panna cotta is firm, generously spoon the spiked cranberry sauce over the top of each glass until it reaches the rim. For an irresistible final touch, skewer a fresh cranberry through a rosemary sprig and lay it gently across the surface of each dessert. Cover the glasses and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

The garnishes are what take this dessert from beautiful to breathtaking. Sugared cranberries add a sparkling festive look, while fresh rosemary sprigs bring an aromatic pine scent that makes every bite feel like a holiday celebration. These touches are simple yet impactful, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines best on its own or paired with light, complementary sides. Consider serving it alongside buttery shortbread cookies or crisp biscotti to add a crunchy contrast. Fresh fruit like orange segments or poached pears also harmonize brilliantly with the creamy, citrus-studded flavors in the panna cotta and sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to switch things up, try layering the eggnog panna cotta and cranberry sauce in clear glasses or mini mason jars for a rustic-chic look. You can even serve them as bite-sized portions in shot glasses for party-friendly, elegant treats. Ribbon a rosemary sprig around each glass with twine to amp up the festive vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover panna cotta in the fridge—covered tightly—to keep it fresh and creamy for up to 3 days. Keep the cranberry sauce separate until just before serving to maintain its bright flavor and perfect texture.

Freezing

Freezing panna cotta is not recommended since the delicate, creamy texture can be compromised by ice crystals. The cranberry sauce, however, freezes well and can be stored for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Thaw it slowly in the fridge before using.

Reheating

Panna cotta is best enjoyed chilled and should not be reheated. If you plan to serve it later, just remove it from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to bring it to the perfect temperature. The cranberry sauce can be warmed gently on the stove if you prefer it slightly warm, but room temperature is ideal for balancing the cool panna cotta.

FAQs

Can I use homemade eggnog for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade eggnog can add extra richness and depth. Just be sure it’s thick and sweet enough to mimic the smooth, creamy consistency of store-bought commercial eggnog for best results.

Is there a non-alcoholic option for the cranberry sauce?

Yes, if you prefer to leave out the orange liqueur, you can substitute with an equal amount of extra orange juice or a few drops of orange extract for flavor without the alcohol.

How long does the panna cotta take to set?

Typically, the panna cotta needs at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to set properly, but chilling it longer won’t hurt and can actually improve the texture even more.

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Definitely! Both the panna cotta and spiked cranberry sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance, making this a fantastic option for stress-free entertaining during busy holiday seasons.

What if I don’t have orange liqueur? What can I use instead?

If you don’t have orange liqueur on hand, 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract is a great substitute to retain that citrus note. Alternatively, a splash of Triple Sec or even brandy can also complement the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce Recipe is the kind of dessert that wraps you in cozy holiday nostalgia with every spoonful, while still feeling fresh and exciting. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or indulging on a quiet winter evening, it’s sure to bring smiles and warmth. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a delicious new tradition in your home!

Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce Recipe