As the soft hum of conversation and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed cappuccino fill the air, picture yourself sitting in a chic Italian café. Before you, on a cool marble table adorned with a vase of fresh white roses, rests a dessert that encapsulates elegance and simplicity: Panna Cotta topped with a vibrant berry sauce and fresh raspberries. This silky, creamy delight is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a testament to the love and creativity that food can inspire. Perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion, this Panna Cotta recipe invites you to experience the joy of creating something truly special, right in your own kitchen.

Panna Cotta Recipe - Zynahz

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)

Servings: 6

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
  • 2.5 tsp gelatin powder
  • 3 tbsp water
  • 1 cup mixed berries (for sauce)
  • 2 tbsp sugar (for sauce)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (for sauce)
  • Fresh raspberries (for garnish)
Panna Cotta Recipe - Zynahz

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 3 tbsp of water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Add the split vanilla bean and its seeds (or vanilla extract). Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally.
  3. Remove from heat and add the gelatin mixture, stirring until completely dissolved.
  4. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the vanilla bean and any undissolved gelatin pieces.
  5. Pour the mixture evenly into six dessert glasses. Allow to cool slightly before covering with plastic wrap and refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or until set.
  6. While the Panna Cotta is chilling, prepare the berry sauce. In a small saucepan, combine mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. Once cooled, spoon the berry sauce over the chilled Panna Cotta.
  8. Garnish each dessert glass with fresh raspberries before serving.

Helpful Tips

For a smoother Panna Cotta, make sure to strain the mixture before pouring it into glasses. To make the dessert even more exciting, you can experiment with different fruit toppings or even a splash of coffee liqueur for a unique twist.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Panna Cotta in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The berry sauce can also be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Variations and Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh vanilla beans, vanilla extract works well as a substitute. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and coconut cream instead of whole milk and heavy cream.

Panna Cotta Recipe - Zynahz

Pairings

Serve this elegant dessert with a hot cappuccino or a sparkling glass of Prosecco. Pairing it with light almond biscotti can add a delightful crunch to your Panna Cotta experience.

At Zynahz, we believe that every meal can be a magical culinary experience, bringing joy and creativity into your kitchen. Try this Panna Cotta recipe and share your delightful creations with us. Share it with friends and family, spreading the love for good food. Explore more inspired recipes on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for more delicious inspiration. Let’s make cooking an unforgettable journey!”

Last Update: February 12, 2025