Description
Classic Italian Vanilla Panna Cotta is a smooth, creamy dessert made with rich heavy cream, sugar, and gelatin, infused with fragrant vanilla. This elegant and silky treat requires minimal ingredients and simple preparation, setting in the fridge for a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture perfect for any special occasion or a refreshing end to a meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups Heavy cream
- ⅓ cup Sugar
- 1 packet Gelatin powder (approx. 2 ½ teaspoons)
- 3 tablespoons Cold water
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean (split and scraped)
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin powder evenly over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to absorb the water and become gelatinous, which is crucial for the panna cotta to set properly.
- Heat Cream and Sugar: In a saucepan, gently warm the heavy cream and sugar over medium-low heat. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved but avoid boiling to maintain the cream’s smooth texture and flavor.
- Add Vanilla and Remove from Heat: Stir in the vanilla extract or the seeds and pod from the split vanilla bean into the warm cream. Remove the pan from the heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
- Dissolve Gelatin into Cream: Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm cream mixture and whisk vigorously until completely dissolved, ensuring no lumps. For extra smoothness, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve.
- Chill to Set: Pour the mixture into molds or serving cups. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the panna cotta to set firmly and achieve the perfect silky consistency.
- Serve: To unmold, briefly dip the molds in warm water and invert onto serving plates, or serve directly in the cups. Optionally garnish before serving for added presentation.
Notes
- Do not boil the cream mixture to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth texture.
- Using real vanilla bean seeds enhances flavor but vanilla extract is a great substitute.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use agar-agar instead of gelatin.
- Ensure gelatin fully dissolves to avoid lumpy texture.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow proper setting; overnight is ideal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: vanilla panna cotta, classic Italian dessert, creamy pudding, gelatin dessert, easy panna cotta recipe
