Ingredients
- Heavy cream: 2 cups
- Whole milk: 1 cup
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Unflavored gelatin powder: 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 standard packet)
- Cold water: 3 tablespoons
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh berries: for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Soften the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over the cold water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to soften.
- Step 2: Heat the cream, milk, and sugar: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is just simmering (do not boil).
- Step 3: Dissolve the gelatin: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the softened gelatin until completely dissolved. Add the vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Strain and pour into molds: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher or measuring cup to remove any undissolved gelatin. Pour the panna cotta mixture evenly into ramekins or molds.
- Step 5: Chill: Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap (touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until set.
- Step 6: Unmold and serve: To unmold, run a thin knife around the edge of each panna cotta. Dip the bottom of the ramekin briefly in warm water to loosen the panna cotta. Invert onto serving plates. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh berries, if desired.
Notes
- Store leftover panna cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it's best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for optimal texture.
- Reheating is not recommended, as it will ruin the delicate texture; instead, if it's too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
- For an elegant presentation, serve your panna cotta with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of toasted almonds in addition to fresh berries.
- Be patient when dissolving the gelatin; any lingering granules can result in a grainy texture, so stir thoroughly until it's completely smooth before pouring into the molds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American