All About Panna Cotta
What is panna cotta anyway? Panna Cotta is a popular chilled Italian dessert made of cream (and often milk) that is sweetened with sugar, flavored with vanilla and uses gelatin to thicken and hold its form. Panna cotta in Italian translates to “cooked cream.” This dessert can be served straight from the cups it’s chilled in or unmolded and inverted into dessert plates. To me it is something reminiscent of ice cream and jello. Though it’s the best upgrade you could ever imagine to traditional jello because cream makes everything better. Plus this has a more welcome, more melt-in-your-mouth-like texture than jello does. Panna Cotta can also be made with other flavor variations as well. Other popular flavors include chocolate panna cotta, mango, coconut, coffee and lemon. This is a must try treat that’s perfectly refreshing on a hot summers eve. And of course it’s a dessert people of all ages will love!
Panna Cotta Recipe Ingredients
You only need 7 basic ingredients!
3 Tbsp cold water 4 tsp (12 g) gelatin 3 cups heavy cream 1 cup whole milk 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar Pinch salt 2 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Panna Cotta
How to Unmold and Serve
Helpful Tips for the Best Panna Cotta
I found the ratio of gelatin to dairy I preferred (for setting purposes) was 1 tsp per cup. Enough to hold it together but not too much to make it stiff and rubbery. Don’t skip blooming gelatin. It needs to be soaked in water first to ensure gelatin dissolves evenly and for the best finished texture. Don’t overheat the gelatin (especially for an extended period of time) or its setting strength will weaken. That’s why here we add it after simmering the mixture. Be sure to plan ahead and allow enough time for the panna cotta to thoroughly set in the fridge so it’s not runny. Avoid freezer chilling to speed up setting. It won’t set properly. Also keep in mind panna cotta should never be frozen even after setting. Boost flavor by finishing with a sauce or even fresh fruit. Keep stored in refrigerated and always serve cold for best texture.
More Refreshing Desserts to Try
Chocolate Mousse Chocolate Pudding Creme Brulee Flan Vanilla Ice Cream
