Name: Authentic Italian Panna Cotta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin powder; 3 tablespoons cold water; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Fresh berries or fruit sauce for serving (optional)

Why You’ll Love Authentic Italian Panna Cotta Recipe

This panna cotta recipe is wonderfully easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. It requires minimal hands-on time and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. The texture is luxuriously smooth and creamy, while the flavor is lightly sweet and versatile enough to pair with countless toppings. Whether you serve it in elegant glasses or unmold it onto a plate, it always looks refined and tastes delightful.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

heavy cream
whole milk
granulated sugar
vanilla extract
unflavored gelatin
cold water
fresh berries or fruit coulis for serving

Directions

Pour the cold water into a small bowl and sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly over the surface. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to bloom and soften.
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin and stir thoroughly until completely dissolved.
Stir in the vanilla extract and mix well.
For an extra smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pouring jug.
Divide the mixture evenly among ramekins or serving glasses.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
Serve chilled with fresh berries or a spoonful of fruit coulis on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: Approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes

Variations
For a chocolate version, whisk in a few tablespoons of cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate into the warm cream mixture before adding the gelatin.

For a coconut twist, replace part of the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a subtle tropical flavor.

For a coffee panna cotta, dissolve a teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the hot cream mixture.

You can also infuse the cream with citrus zest or a split vanilla bean while heating for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store panna cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly wrapped or covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing other odors from the fridge.

Panna cotta is not recommended for freezing, as the texture may become grainy once thawed.

This dessert is meant to be served cold and should not be reheated.

FAQs

What does panna cotta mean?

Panna cotta means “cooked cream” in Italian, referring to the sweetened cream base that forms the dessert.

Can I make panna cotta ahead of time?

Yes, panna cotta is ideal for making ahead. It can be prepared a day in advance and kept chilled until serving.

How do I know when panna cotta is set?

It should be firm around the edges and slightly wobbly in the center, similar to gelatin dessert.

Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?

Yes, agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian alternative. Be sure to follow the package instructions for correct quantities and preparation.

Why didn’t my panna cotta set properly?

This usually happens if the gelatin was not fully dissolved or if the ratio of liquid to gelatin was off.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can slightly reduce the sugar to suit your taste without affecting the texture significantly.

How do I unmold panna cotta neatly?

Dip the bottom of the ramekin briefly in warm water, then run a thin knife around the edge and invert onto a serving plate.

Can I flavor panna cotta with other extracts?

Absolutely. Almond, coconut, or even citrus extracts can be used to create different flavor profiles.

Is panna cotta gluten-free?

Yes, traditional panna cotta is naturally gluten-free. Always check additional flavorings or toppings to be sure.

What toppings pair best with panna cotta?

Fresh berries, fruit sauces, caramel, chocolate drizzle, or toasted nuts all complement the creamy texture beautifully.

Conclusion

Panna cotta is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. With its creamy texture and delicate flavor, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized in many ways. Easy to prepare and perfect for making ahead, this Italian classic is sure to become a favorite for both everyday treats and special occasions.