Description
Vanilla Panna Cotta is a classic Italian dessert known for its creamy texture and delicate vanilla flavor. Made with simple ingredients like heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and gelatin, it sets into a smooth, custard-like consistency. This elegant dessert is versatile, often served with toppings such as fresh berries or caramel sauce, making it a perfect choice for an impressive yet easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 vanilla bean (or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract)
- 2 teaspoons of unflavored gelatin powder
- 3 tablespoons of cold water
Instructions
Directions:
- Prepare the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Let it stand for about 5 minutes to soften.
- Heat the Cream and Milk: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the saucepan, adding the bean pod as well. If using vanilla extract, don’t add it yet. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Dissolve the Gelatin: Remove the vanilla bean pod if used. Add the softened gelatin to the hot cream mixture. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. If using vanilla extract, add it now.
- Pour and Set: Divide the mixture into ramekins or molds. Let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Chill for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Demold: To demold, run a small knife around the edge of each Panna Cotta and briefly dip the bottom of the ramekin in hot water. Then, invert onto a serving plate.
- Serve: Serve your Vanilla Panna Cotta as is or with a topping of your choice, such as fresh berries, berry sauce, or a drizzle of caramel.
Notes
Quality of Ingredients: The flavor of your Panna Cotta heavily depends on the quality of the ingredients. Use the freshest heavy cream and whole milk you can find. For the vanilla, a vanilla bean or high-quality vanilla paste is preferable over extract for a richer, more authentic flavor.
Balancing Sweetness: Adjust the sugar according to your taste and the sweetness of your cream. Remember, you can always serve the Panna Cotta with a sweet sauce or fruit if you prefer a less sweet dessert.