Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Panna Cotta is incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients. The result is a silky, indulgent dessert that’s surprisingly light and refreshing. The vanilla and optional citrus or almond liqueur elevate the flavor, making it a versatile dessert that pairs beautifully with various toppings. It’s perfect for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or just treating yourself to something special!

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp (7g) powdered gelatine
• 2 tbsp cold water
• 360g (1 1/2 cup) milk
• 250g (1 cup) heavy cream
• 80g (1/3 cup) sugar
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 tbsp vanilla paste (or one vanilla pod)
• 1 tbsp Limoncello or Amaretto (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatine over 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom (absorb the water and soften).
2. Heat the Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to steam but not boil.
3. Add the Vanilla: If you’re using a vanilla pod, split it open, scrape out the seeds, and add both the seeds and the pod to the milk mixture. Stir in the vanilla paste if you’re using it. Continue to heat the mixture for another 2-3 minutes to infuse the vanilla.
4. Dissolve the Gelatin: Once the milk mixture is hot, remove it from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatine and stir until it has completely dissolved into the liquid.
5. Add the Liqueur: If using, stir in the Limoncello or Amaretto for an added layer of flavor.
6. Strain the Mixture: If you used a vanilla pod, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the pod and any vanilla pod bits.
7. Pour into Molds: Pour the panna cotta mixture into individual serving glasses or ramekins. Let the mixture cool slightly at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator.
8. Chill: Refrigerate the panna cotta for at least 4 hours or until it is fully set. For best results, allow it to chill overnight.
9. Serve: Once set, serve the panna cotta chilled with your choice of toppings such as fresh berries, fruit compote, caramel sauce, or chocolate shavings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 5-7 minutes
• Chilling time: 4 hours or overnight
• Total time: 4-5 hours (including chilling time)

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover panna cotta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze panna cotta, as it will lose its creamy texture. Enjoy it cold directly from the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?

Yes, agar-agar is a suitable vegetarian alternative to gelatin. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of agar-agar powder for every tablespoon of gelatin. Dissolve it in boiling liquid to ensure it sets properly.

2. Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the milk and cream with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk and almond milk. However, the texture may differ slightly.

3. Can I skip the liqueur?

Yes, you can omit the Limoncello or Amaretto if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. The panna cotta will still taste delicious with just vanilla.

4. How can I make the panna cotta sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter panna cotta, you can increase the sugar by a tablespoon or two, depending on your taste.

5. Can I make panna cotta in advance?

Yes, panna cotta is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it the day before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.

6. Can I use a different flavoring instead of vanilla?

Yes, you can experiment with other flavors like coffee, chocolate, or citrus zest. Just adjust the infusing step to suit the flavor you choose.

7. How do I get the panna cotta out of the mold?

If you’re using ramekins, you can dip the bottom of the ramekin briefly in warm water to loosen the panna cotta, then invert it onto a plate. If you’re serving it directly in glasses, no need to unmold it.

8. Can I use powdered vanilla extract?

Yes, if you don’t have vanilla paste or a vanilla pod, powdered vanilla extract will work too. Use 1 to 2 teaspoons for a similar flavor.

9. Can I top panna cotta with fruit?

Absolutely! Fresh berries, fruit compote, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce would pair wonderfully with panna cotta.

10. Why didn’t my panna cotta set properly?

If your panna cotta didn’t set, it’s likely that the gelatin wasn’t fully dissolved, or the mixture wasn’t heated properly. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved in the warm cream mixture, and let it cool and set in the fridge for several hours.

Conclusion

Panna Cotta is a sophisticated yet simple dessert that will delight your guests and satisfy your cravings for something creamy and delicious. With its velvety texture and endless flavor possibilities, it’s a dessert that can be easily adapted for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite toppings, panna cotta is sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire!

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