Silky Vanilla Panna Cotta with Berry Sauce

Imagine a dessert that’s as smooth as silk and melts in your mouth. That’s exactly what panna cotta is all about. This Italian delight is incredibly easy to make and will have your guests thinking you spent hours in the kitchen, when really, it takes just a short amount of time.

Panna cotta is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. Its creamy texture paired with a vibrant berry sauce creates a stunning contrast that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to indulge yourself, this recipe is a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The flavor profile of panna cotta is subtly sweet and rich, making it the perfect canvas for toppings like fresh fruits or caramel sauce. You can easily customize it to your liking, so feel free to get creative!

A Classic Italian Dessert

Panna cotta, a traditional Italian dessert, embodies the essence of simplicity and elegance. This creamy delight is created using sweetened cream, infused with the warm essence of vanilla, and set with gelatin to achieve its signature silky texture.

Its delicate flavor is a wonderful foundation for various toppings, but it pairs exceptionally well with a tangy berry sauce. The combination of the panna cotta’s richness and the berry sauce’s brightness creates a delightful interplay of tastes.

Visual Appeal and Presentation

Presentation plays a pivotal role in the enjoyment of panna cotta. Serving it in clear glasses allows the beautiful layers of creamy custard and vibrant berry sauce to shine through, making each serving a visual treat.

To enhance the overall presentation, consider adding fresh strawberries and a sprig of mint on top. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also adds a touch of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dessert.

Ingredients That Shine

The ingredients for panna cotta are straightforward, yet they work in harmony to create a decadent dessert. Heavy cream and whole milk form the creamy base, while granulated sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness.

Using high-quality vanilla extract elevates the flavor, ensuring every bite is infused with a rich, aromatic essence. Fresh berries, which can include strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, are key to making the vibrant sauce that crowns this delightful dish.

The Art of Chilling

One of the critical steps in making panna cotta is allowing it to chill properly. After preparing the creamy mixture, it’s essential to let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator.

A minimum chilling time of four hours is recommended to ensure that the panna cotta sets beautifully. This patience pays off, as the end result is a beautifully smooth dessert that holds its shape when served.

Creating the Berry Sauce

The berry sauce is quite simple to make and requires just a few ingredients. By heating fresh berries with a touch of sugar over medium heat, they break down and release their juices, creating a luscious sauce.

This sauce not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness of the panna cotta with its tangy notes. Once prepared, it can be drizzled generously over the chilled panna cotta just before serving for that finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving panna cotta, the options are versatile. It can be plated directly from the ramekins or inverted onto a plate, showcasing the beautiful layers.

A delicate lace napkin under the dish can enhance the elegance of the setting, making it perfect for special occasions or intimate dinners. Whether enjoyed as a finale to a meal or as a sweet indulgence, panna cotta is sure to bring a sophisticated touch to the dining experience.

A Classic Italian Dessert

This panna cotta is a luscious custard made from sweetened cream, flavored with vanilla, and set with gelatin. It has a delicate, creamy taste that pairs wonderfully with a tangy berry sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 teaspoons unflavored gelatin (or 1 packet)
• 3 tablespoons cold water
• Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) for topping
• Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Heat Cream Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is heated but not boiling. Remove from heat.
3. Add Gelatin: Stir the softened gelatin into the warm cream mixture until completely dissolved. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Chill the Mixture: Pour the mixture into ramekins or small cups. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
5. Make Berry Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat fresh berries with a bit of sugar over medium heat until they begin to break down and create a sauce. Remove from heat and let cool.
6. Serve: Once the panna cotta has set, run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Invert onto a plate or serve directly in ramekins. Drizzle with berry sauce and garnish with fresh mint if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 290kcal
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 20g