Summary:

Indulge in this panna cotta recipe that always yields a lusciously creamy Italian dessert. Layers of rich cream set to silky firmness, infused with vanilla beans for depth of flavor. Minimal prep and no baking make this dessert elegant and approachable for any occasion.

Equipment:

• Medium saucepan for heating the cream mix
• Heatproof bowl for mixing gelatin
• Whisk or silicone spatula for blending
• 4–6 ramekins or serving glasses
• Fine-mesh sieve for strain
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients for Panna cotta recipe :

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean (split) or 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2½ tsp powdered gelatin
• 3 tbsp cold water
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh berries or citrus zest for garnish
• Mint leaves (optional)

Instructions for Panna cotta recipe :

 

Part 1: Prepare the Cream Base

1. Pour heavy cream and milk into the medium saucepan.
2. Add sugar and a pinch of salt.
3. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise, scraping seeds into the mixture; add pod.
4. Warm the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring gently until sugar fully dissolves and steam rises around the edges.
5. Remove from heat just before simmering, keeping liquid warm.

Part 2: Infuse Vanilla Flavor Panna cotta recipe :

1. Cover the saucepan to trap the vanilla aroma.
2. Let vanilla steep in warm cream for 10 minutes, whisking occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a heatproof bowl.
4. While waiting, aroma intensifies and gelatin blooms, readying for smooth incorporation.

Part 3: Bloom and Dissolve Gelatin Panna Panna cotta recipe :

1. After 10 minutes, remove the vanilla pod and discard.
2. Gently reheat the cream mixture briefly until just warm.
3. Pour hot cream over bloomed gelatin, stirring until fully dissolved and no granules remain.
4. Ensure uniform liquid by whisking briskly for about 30 seconds.

Part 4: Strain and Combine Panna Panna cotta recipe :

1. Position a fine-mesh sieve over a clean bowl or pitcher.
2. Pour gelatin-cream blend through sieve to remove any solids or foam.
3. Stir gently to maintain a silky texture.
4. Divide mixture evenly among ramekins or serving glasses, filling nearly to the rims.

Part 5: Chill to Set Panna Panna cotta recipe :

1. Transfer the filled ramekins to the refrigerator.
2. Allow panna cotta to chill undisturbed for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Cover ramekins loosely with plastic wrap to prevent odors.
4. Confirm set by lightly shaking—the center should wobble slightly but hold shape.

Part 6: Garnish and Serve Panna cotta recipe :

1. Before serving, top each panna cotta with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit coulis.
2. Add a few mint leaves or citrus zest for brightness.
3. For an extra touch, dust lightly with powdered sugar.
4. Serve chilled directly in ramekins, or dip bases in warm water for 5 seconds to unmold onto plates.

Notes For Panna Cotta Recipe :

• Use quality ingredients: pure vanilla extract or real vanilla bean provides superior aroma.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream and almond milk; the texture varies slightly.
• Avoid overheating cream to prevent separation—keep heat gentle.
• Prepare panna cotta a day ahead for stress-free entertaining.
• To unmold easily, run a thin knife around the edge before dipping.