Traditional Panna Cotta: How to Make Italian Vanilla Panna Cotta at Home

Experience the creamy and elegant flavors of Traditional Panna Cotta. This classic Italian dessert combines a silky smooth texture with a subtle hint of vanilla, creating a delightful and sophisticated treat. Follow this recipe to bring the authentic taste of Italy into your kitchen.

Inspiring Quote

“Desserts are the fairy tales of the kitchen—a happily-ever-after to supper.” – Terri Guillemets

Recipe Description

Panna Cotta, which means “cooked cream” in Italian, is a classic dessert that originated in the northern region of Piedmont. This creamy, custard-like dessert is known for its smooth texture and delicate flavor. Traditionally made with just a few simple ingredients—cream, sugar, and gelatin—Panna Cotta is often flavored with vanilla and served with a variety of toppings such as fresh berries, caramel sauce, or fruit coulis. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create a perfect Panna Cotta, ensuring a delightful and elegant dessert that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
• 3 tablespoons cold water
• Fresh berries or fruit coulis for topping (optional)

Procedure

1. Prepare the Gelatin:
   1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
2. Heat the Cream Mixture:
   1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Add the Gelatin:
   1. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it is completely dissolved. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Strain the Mixture:
   1. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to remove any undissolved gelatin or impurities.
5. Pour into Molds:
   1. Divide the mixture evenly among 6-8 ramekins or dessert cups. Allow them to cool to room temperature before covering with plastic wrap and refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or until set.
6. Serve:
   1. To unmold the Panna Cotta, dip the bottoms of the ramekins in hot water for a few seconds, then invert onto serving plates.
   2. Serve chilled, topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit coulis, if desired.

Conclusion

Enjoy your homemade Traditional Panna Cotta, a creamy and elegant Italian dessert that brings a touch of sophistication to any meal. Perfect for special occasions or a simple yet delightful treat, this Panna Cotta is sure to become a favorite.

Additional Notes

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute part of the milk with more heavy cream.
• Panna Cotta can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making it an excellent choice for entertaining.

Tips and Tricks

• Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved to ensure a smooth texture.
• Experiment with different flavors by infusing the cream with coffee, citrus zest, or spices like cinnamon.

Beverage Pairings

Panna Cotta pairs well with:

• Wine: A sweet dessert wine such as Moscato d’Asti or Vin Santo.
• Beer: A light and fruity beer like a Belgian ale.
• Non-alcoholic: A hot cup of espresso or a glass of sparkling water with a twist of lemon.