How to Make the Perfect Classic Panna Cotta
Italian · Easy · 20 min · 6 servings
This silky Italian dessert is a kid friendly treat that wiggles like jello and tastes like cream. Kids love topping it with fresh berries or chocolate sauce for a fun and fancy finish.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Panna Cotta recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 280 calories with 4g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 7 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2.25 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup fresh strawberries sliced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes until it absorbs the water and becomes spongy. This step is important for getting that perfect wobbly texture kids love.
Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture
Combine heavy cream, milk, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture just begins to simmer, about 5 minutes. Do not let it boil.
Step 3: Combine and Pour
Remove cream from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour the mixture evenly into 6 lightly greased ramekins or small cups.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set. To serve, run a thin knife around the edge and invert onto a plate or serve directly in the cup topped with fresh strawberries.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- heavy cream → coconut cream for a dairy free version
- granulated sugar → honey for a natural sweetener option
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not blooming gelatin properly which causes lumps
- Boiling the cream which can prevent the panna cotta from setting
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 280 calories, 4g protein, 22g carbs, 19g fat, 0g fiber.
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