italian panna cotta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best italian panna cotta recipe

I’m so excited to share my Italian Panna Cotta recipe with you all! This creamy dessert has been a family favorite for years, and I just know you’ll love it too. Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made from sweetened cream that’s set with gelatin, and it’s incredibly easy to make at home.

I first discovered panna cotta on a trip to Italy, where it was served as a refreshing dessert in the summer. The combination of creamy texture and sweet flavor was absolute perfection, and I knew right away that I had to learn how to make it at home. The best part about panna cotta is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a light and refreshing dessert, or top it with fresh fruit and nuts for a more decadent treat.

I’ve even served it at family gatherings and parties, where it’s always been a huge hit. One of the things I love most about panna cotta is the way it’s made – simply mix together sweetened cream, gelatin, and flavorings, then chill until set. It’s one of those magical desserts that’s both easy to make and looks beautiful on the plate.

Another reason I adore panna cotta is its health benefits. Unlike many desserts, panna cotta is relatively low in sugar and calories compared to other creamy treats. Plus, using natural ingredients like cream and gelatin makes this dessert feel like a healthier option for special occasions or everyday eating.

In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make the perfect Italian Panna Cotta at home. We’ll start by making the sweetened cream mixture, then add gelatin to give it structure and set it in individual molds or a large mold. Once set, we can top our panna cotta with fresh fruit, nuts, or even a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.

Italian Panna Cotta

4.6 from 1712 votes

A classic Italian dessert with a silky smooth texture and delicate vanilla flavor. This creamy custard is set with gelatin and served chilled with a berry compote.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 25 mins (includes chilling time)
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise, or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/4 teaspoons powdered gelatin (about one 1/4-ounce envelope)
3 tablespoons cold water

For the Berry Compote (optional)

1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the 3 tablespoons of cold water.
2Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom until the gelatin becomes spongy and absorbs the water.
3In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar.
4If using a vanilla bean, scrape the seeds into the cream mixture and add the pod.
5Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot and steaming but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
6The sugar should be fully dissolved.
7Remove the saucepan from the heat.
8If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
9Add the bloomed gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved, about 30 seconds.
10The mixture should be smooth and slightly thickened.
11For a silky texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean liquid measuring cup or bowl to remove any vanilla bean pod pieces or undissolved gelatin.
12Divide the mixture evenly among the 4 ramekins.
13Refrigerate the ramekins uncovered for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is firmly set and jiggles slightly when shaken.
14For best results, chill overnight.
15While the panna cotta chills, prepare the berry compote if desired.
16In a small saucepan, combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice.
17Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
18Remove from heat and let cool completely.
19To serve, run a thin knife around the edge of each ramekin to loosen the panna cotta.
20Invert onto a serving plate and tap gently to release, or serve directly in the ramekin.
21Spoon the berry compote over the top.

🔧Equipment

Small bowl
Medium saucepan
Whisk
4 ramekins or small glasses (6-ounce capacity)
Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
Small saucepan (for compote)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 17g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 45mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half. The panna cotta can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept covered in the refrigerator. Unmolding is easier if you dip the ramekins in hot water for 5 seconds before inverting.

Watch Video Of How Italian Panna Cotta Works

This Italian Panna Cotta recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a light dessert after dinner or want to impress your guests with a show-stopping treat. One of my favorite ways to serve pana cotta is topped with fresh fruit like berries or sliced peaches.

You can also try using different flavors like vanilla or lemon extract for added variety. If you have leftovers, be sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When serving leftover pana cotta, be sure not to reheat it as this can cause it to lose its texture.

❓ 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: What is the difference between panna cotta and crème brûlée?

Panna cotta is lighter in texture than crème brûlée and has a more delicate flavor.

Q: Can I make panna cotta without gelatin?

No, gelatin is necessary to give panna cotta its structure and texture.

Q: Can I use different flavors in my panna cotta?

Yes, you can use different flavorings like vanilla or lemon extract to create unique variations.

Q: How do I store leftover panna cotta?

You can store leftover panna cotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Q: Can I reheat panna cotta?

No, it’s best to serve panna cotta chilled; reheating can cause it to lose its texture.

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