Vanilla panna cotta is a luscious Italian dessert that translates to “cooked cream.” This silky, smooth treat balances rich creaminess with a light, delicate texture.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a luxurious sweet fix, this easy-to-make vanilla panna cotta delivers elegance with minimal effort.
The best part? It requires only a handful of ingredients and a little patience as it chills to perfection.
Ingredients
To make this classic vanilla panna cotta, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups (500ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (250ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean (or 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract)
- 2 ½ teaspoons (1 packet) unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) cold water
- Pinch of salt
For garnish (optional):
- Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
- Caramel sauce or chocolate drizzle
- Mint leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Gelatin
Start by blooming the gelatin. In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over three tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for about five minutes until it softens and becomes slightly firm. This step ensures that the gelatin dissolves evenly in the panna cotta mixture, preventing lumps.
Heat the Cream Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Slice the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with a knife. Add both the seeds and the pod to the saucepan. If using vanilla extract, wait to add it later.
Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Heat the mixture until it is warm but not boiling — around 170°F (77°C) if using a thermometer. The goal is to dissolve the sugar and infuse the cream with vanilla flavor without scalding the milk.
Dissolve the Gelatin
Remove the saucepan from heat. Discard the vanilla bean pod. Stir in the bloomed gelatin, whisking continuously until it fully dissolves. If using vanilla extract instead of a vanilla bean, add it now.
Strain for Extra Smoothness
For a silky, lump-free texture, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl. This step removes any undissolved bits of gelatin or vanilla bean residue.
Pour and Chill
Carefully pour the panna cotta mixture into individual serving glasses, ramekins, or molds. Cover each dish with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on top.
Refrigerate for at least four hours, but preferably overnight, until the panna cotta is fully set.
Unmold (Optional)
If serving the panna cotta in ramekins or molds, run a thin knife around the edges and dip the bottom of the mold in warm water for five to ten seconds. Invert onto a plate and give it a gentle shake to release.
Garnish and Serve
Top your vanilla panna cotta with fresh berries, caramel drizzle, or a dusting of cocoa powder. A sprig of mint adds a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Panna Cotta
Avoid Overheating the Cream
If the cream reaches a rolling boil, it can develop a slightly cooked taste and alter the texture. Keep it warm, but not boiling, to maintain a smooth, delicate consistency.
Use High-Quality Vanilla
For the best flavor, opt for a real vanilla bean rather than extract. It gives the panna cotta an intense vanilla aroma and tiny specks of vanilla seeds, which enhance both appearance and taste.
Strain for a Professional Finish
Even if you think your mixture is smooth, always strain it before pouring. This ensures a silky, restaurant-quality texture without any unwanted lumps.
Allow Proper Chilling Time
Panna cotta needs a minimum of four hours in the refrigerator to fully set. However, overnight chilling gives it the perfect firmness while maintaining a creamy texture.
Unmolding Like a Pro
If you’re unmolding your panna cotta, don’t rush the process. Briefly dipping the ramekins in warm water loosens the dessert just enough without melting it. A gentle shake helps it slide out smoothly.
Variations to Try
Once you master the classic vanilla panna cotta, experiment with different flavors:
Chocolate panna cotta: Add three ounces of melted dark chocolate for a rich, decadent twist.
Coconut panna cotta: Substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
Coffee panna cotta: Stir in one teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a subtle coffee kick. Lemon panna cotta: Add one teaspoon of lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy touch.
Pairing Suggestions
Vanilla panna cotta pairs beautifully with a glass of sweet dessert wine like Moscato, a shot of espresso for an Italian-style finish, or a shortbread cookie or biscotti for added texture.
Conclusion
Vanilla panna cotta is the ultimate make-ahead dessert that looks elegant yet requires minimal effort. With its creamy texture and delicate vanilla flavor, it’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings.
Try this easy recipe and elevate your dessert game with a touch of Italian indulgence!
