italian dessert panna cotta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
italian dessert panna cotta recipe
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The Best italian dessert panna cotta recipe

I’m thrilled to share with you my family’s favorite Italian dessert recipe, Panna Cotta. This creamy delight has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m excited to pass it down to you. Panna Cotta originated in Italy, specifically in the northern region of Piedmont, where it’s been a traditional dessert since the 16th century.

The name ‘Panna Cotta’ translates to ‘cooked cream,’ which is a fitting description of this rich and velvety dessert. The creamy texture comes from the combination of sweetened cream that’s set with gelatin, creating a smooth and custard-like consistency. One of the key techniques in making Panna Cotta is ensuring that the cream is cooked to the perfect temperature, which allows it to set properly without becoming too firm or too runny.

This technique requires patience and attention to detail, but trust me, it’s worth the effort. When you take a spoonful of Panna Cotta, you’ll be greeted by its silky smooth texture and the sweetness of the cream. It’s a true delight for the senses.

My kids love helping me make Panna Cotta, as they enjoy getting their hands dirty with the cream and sugar mixture. They’re always so excited to taste the finished product and declare it ‘the best dessert ever.’ As for me, I appreciate how versatile Panna Cotta is – it’s perfect for special occasions or everyday desserts.

Its creamy texture makes it an excellent base for various flavor combinations, from classic vanilla to more adventurous options like coffee or chocolate. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make gluten-free by using almond milk or other non-dairy alternatives. My family loves enjoying Panna Cotta as a treat after dinner or as a snack on its own.

We’ve even served it at family gatherings and parties, where it’s always been a hit.

Italian Panna Cotta

Italian Panna Cotta

4.9 from 1666 votes

A classic Italian dessert featuring creamy, smooth panna cotta with a light vanilla flavor and a tangy berry sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta

1 1/3 cups heavy cream
1 1/3 cups whole milk
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean or 2 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin

For the Berry Sauce

1 1/3 cups mixed berries
1 1/3 tbsp granulated sugar
1 1/3 tbsp water

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, and sugar over medium heat.
2Stir occasionally until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.
3You will start to see small bubbles forming around the edge of the pan.
4If using a vanilla bean, scrape the seeds into the cream mixture and add the pod.
5If using vanilla extract, add it now.
6Remove from heat.
7Sprinkle gelatin over 3 tbsp of cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
8Then, add the bloomed gelatin to the hot cream mixture.
9Whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
10Remove the vanilla pod if used.
11Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
12Let it cool to room temperature.
13Pour the mixture into ramekins or small glasses.
14Cover each with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
15The panna cotta should be firm and jiggle slightly when ready.
16While the panna cotta is setting, prepare the berry sauce.
17In a small saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and water over medium heat.
18Cook, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the sauce thickens slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
19You will see the sauce reduce and become thicker.
20Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
21To serve, spoon the berry sauce over the set panna cotta and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan
Mixing bowl
Ramekins or small glasses
Fine-mesh strainer
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 120mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 28g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the berry sauce until smooth before refrigerating. You can make the panna cotta up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The berry sauce can be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Watch Video Of How Italian Panna Cotta Works

Panna cotta is a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Its velvety texture and mild, sweet flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, and its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings.

It is also a healthier dessert option, thanks to its high calcium and protein content. Panna cotta is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy families or special events.

I always have this recipe on hand for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. It is a dessert that everyone will enjoy, and its simple yet elegant presentation never fails to impress.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Panna Cotta

Q: What is Panna Cotta?

Panna Cotta is an Italian dessert made from sweetened cream that’s set with gelatin.

Q: How do I make Panna Cotta?

To make Panna Cotta, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a saucepan.

Q: Can I make Panna Cotta without gelatin?

No, gelatin is necessary to give Panna Cotta its signature texture.

Q: Can I use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk?

Q: How long does Panna Cotta last in the fridge?

Panna Cotta typically lasts for 3-5 days in the fridge when stored properly.

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