Description
Silky and elegant Vanilla Panna Cotta, a classic Italian dessert that requires minimal effort yet delivers a smooth and creamy texture. This recipe features rich cream infused with vanilla, gently set with gelatin, and served chilled with a vibrant mixed berry sauce for a refreshing contrast.
Ingredients
Scale
Panna Cotta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Mixed Berry Sauce
- 1 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Gelatin: Sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and gelatinous.
- Heat Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Dissolve Gelatin in Cream: Remove the cream from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture evenly into individual serving molds or ramekins. Allow them to cool to room temperature before covering with plastic wrap.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the panna cotta for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and firm to the touch.
- Prepare Berry Sauce: While the panna cotta chills, gently warm the mixed berries with sugar and lemon juice in a small saucepan over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, just until the berries release their juices and sugar dissolves. Avoid boiling to keep berries fresh and vibrant.
- Serve: To serve, unmold the panna cotta by dipping the molds briefly in warm water. Invert onto dessert plates, spoon the warm berry sauce over or around the panna cotta, and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- For a firmer panna cotta, increase gelatin by 1/2 teaspoon.
- Can substitute vanilla extract with vanilla bean for more intense flavor.
- Use full-fat cream for the best texture and richness.
- Ensure gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid grainy texture.
- Panna cotta can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated.