Panna Cotta

Panna Cotta is a silky-smooth Italian dessert made by gently setting sweetened cream with gelatin. Its name translates to “cooked cream,” and the result is a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s both light and indulgent. With its elegant simplicity and endless topping possibilities, panna cotta is perfect for warm-weather entertaining, sophisticated dinners, or when you’re craving a refined yet effortless dessert.

Classic panna cotta dessert garnished with fresh berries and berry sauce.
Clock symbol indicating preparation, baking, and chilling times

Prep – 15 minutes
Cook – 5 minutes
Chill – 4 hours

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6 servings
Ingredients
  • 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tsp powdered gelatin
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) water
Instructions
  • Sprinkle gelatin over water in a small bowl. Let bloom 5 minutes.
  • In a saucepan, heat cream, milk, and sugar until just steaming. Remove from heat.
  • Stir in vanilla and gelatin until dissolved.
  • Pour into ramekins. Chill at least 4 hours.
  • Unmold and serve with berries or fruit coulis.

Tips & Tricks

  • To unmold easily, dip the mold briefly in warm water before inverting.
  • Don’t overheat the gelatin — it should dissolve completely, but never boil.
  • Use full-fat cream for the creamiest result; a mix of cream and whole milk also works.
  • Infuse flavor into the cream with vanilla bean, citrus zest, or even earl grey tea.
  • Panna cotta can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge, making it a stress-free option for guests.
  • Serve chilled, unmolded onto small dessert plates, or in elegant glasses or jars.
  • Garnish with fresh berries, berry coulis, or thin fruit slices (like mango, kiwi, or figs).
  • A drizzle of fruit purée, honey, or caramel sauce makes it extra special.
  • Great served alongside a crisp biscotti or a mini shortbread cookie.

Related Recipes

  • Strawberry Jam – A classic topping that pairs beautifully with vanilla panna cotta for a sweet, fruity contrast.
  • Peach Jam – A delicious topping idea — spooned over a vanilla panna cotta.
  • Lemon Bars – Bright and tangy, they balance panna cotta’s gentle sweetness.