Easy Panna Cotta Recipe
A classic panna cotta recipe makes the perfect no-bake dessert. This italian dessert is made with a silky, wobbly cream, similar to a custard. Get creative with the toppings as the options are endless! This simple panna cotta recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
raspberry topping -
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 ½ Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
panna cotta -
- 3 Tbsp room temp water
- 2 ½ tsp unflavored powdered gelatin
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Make berry sauce. In a small saucepan, add the raspberries, lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and water, and bring to a soft boil. Turn the heat to low, continue cooking until the syrup thickens, stirring as needed. Once the sauce thickens, turn off the heat. Set aside to cool completely and store in the fridge until ready to use.
- Bloom the gelatin. Pour the water into a small saucepan and sprinkle the gelatin on top. Whisk and leave for 5 minutes.
- Melt gelatin. Place the saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir the mixture and cook until the gelatin is incorporated.
- Add flavoring. As you continue to stir, add the sugar and vanilla. Continue to mix until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add cream. Stir in the cream and milk, and cook for another 2 minutes over low heat.
- Cool to thicken slightly. Refrigerate uncovered for 1 hour or until the mixture has just about fully cooled. (If you cool too long, it will set.)
- Individual dishes. Once the mixture has cooled, pour it into greased individual dishes. Refrigerate 4-6 hours or overnight.
- Toppings. Top the cooled panna cotta with the cooled berry sauce or your desired topping.
- Serve and enjoy, friends.
Notes
- Bloom the gelatin correctly. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over water, whisk briefly, then let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This allows it to absorb liquid fully and prevents clumping.
- Avoid boiling. Heat the mixture gently over low to medium heat. Boiling can break down the gelatin and prevent the panna cotta from setting properly.
- Let it set fully. Patience is key. Panna cotta needs time to firm up in the fridge, just like any gelatin-based dessert. For the best texture, let it chill completely before serving.
- Storage. Store leftover panna cotta in the refrigerator for 3–5 days. For the best flavor and texture, enjoy it within the first 48 hours.