Panna Cotta (Vanilla Cream Dessert)
Panna cotta, meaning “cooked cream” in Italian, is a silky, smooth dessert made by gently setting sweetened cream with gelatin. Its texture is soft, creamy, and delicate, offering a subtle vanilla flavor that can be paired with fruit coulis, chocolate, or caramel. It’s a classic Italian treat that’s refreshing yet indulgent, perfect for special occasions or everyday enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (500 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean, split
- 2 tsp powdered gelatin
- 3 tbsp cold water
- Optional toppings: fresh berries, fruit coulis, chocolate sauce, or caramel
Instructions
Bloom the gelatin
- Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let sit for 5 minutes to soften.
Heat the cream
- In a saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and vanilla.
- Heat gently over medium heat until sugar dissolves and cream is warm (do not boil).
Add gelatin
- Remove from heat and stir in the softened gelatin until fully dissolved.
Pour into molds
- Divide the mixture evenly among 4 serving glasses or ramekins.
- Let cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or until set.
Serve
- Unmold if desired or serve directly in glasses.
- Top with fresh berries, fruit coulis, or sauce of your choice.
Small Notes :
- Always bloom gelatin in cold water first for smooth results.
- Do not boil the cream just heat until warm to dissolve sugar.
- Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
- Can be made a day ahead, making it ideal for dinner parties.
- Top with fresh berries, chocolate, or caramel for added flavor and presentation.

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