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Classic Italian Panna Cotta

A quintessential Italian dessert emphasizing rich heavy cream, delicate vanilla flavor, and a smooth gelatin-set texture.

Easy 15 min prep 5 min cook 260 min total 4 servings 4.9/10
Ready in
260 minutes

Makes 4 servings

About This Recipe

A quintessential Italian dessert emphasizing rich heavy cream, delicate vanilla flavor, and a smooth gelatin-set texture.

A foolproof traditional Italian panna cotta recipe featuring a rich, creamy texture.

Ratings

Expert Rating
4.9
95% confidence
Final Score
4.9
90% confidence

Category Scores

9.8
Taste
3.0
Difficulty
9.5
Presentation
5.0
Nutrition
9.0
Value
9.5
Instructions
9.5
Ingredients
9.0
Time Accuracy
9.8
Would Make Again
9.5
Overall

Cooking Timeline

Prep 15 min
Cook 5 min
  1. Step 1
  2. Step 2
  3. Step 3
  4. Step 4
  5. Step 5 4 min

Ingredients

Base

Garnish

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Ramekins 4 individual molds

Instructions

  1. 1

    Pour cold water into a small bowl and sprinkle the gelatin powder over it. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom.

  2. 2

    In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and granulated sugar over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not let it boil.

  3. 3

    Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste and the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved and smooth.

  4. 4

    Pour the mixture into four individual ramekins or molds.

  5. 5

    Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set firmly.

    4 min

Nutrition

Calories 340
Protein 3g
Carbs 18g
Fat 29g
Fiber 0g
Sugar 16g
Sodium 50g
Serving Size 1 ramekin

Expert Review

Verdict

An elegant, melt-in-your-mouth Italian classic that is remarkably easy to prepare.

Pros

  • Silky texture
  • Simple ingredients
  • Make-ahead friendly

Cons

  • Requires chilling time

Overview

A foolproof traditional Italian panna cotta recipe featuring a rich, creamy texture.

AI Insights

Summary

A quintessential Italian dessert emphasizing rich heavy cream, delicate vanilla flavor, and a smooth gelatin-set texture.

Tips

  • Do not boil the cream after adding gelatin to preserve the setting property
  • Use real vanilla bean paste for visible specks and superior flavor
  • Serve with a bright berry coulis to balance the rich cream

Substitutions

  • Heavy cream → Half-and-half (will be lighter and less creamy)

Storage

Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pairing

Fresh raspberry or strawberry sauce Espresso or dessert wine

AI Cooking Assistant

Ask questions about this recipe — substitutions, timing, or technique.

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FAQ

How do I unmold panna cotta?
Dip the bottom of the ramekin in warm water for a few seconds, then run a knife gently around the edges before inverting onto a plate.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, panna cotta can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated.

About the Author

FindEdition Kitchen

Recipe tested and reviewed by the FindEdition culinary team.

Specialty: Italian cuisine

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