Decadent Sour Cream Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of this Decadent Sour Cream Panna Cotta, a delightful twist on the classic Italian treat. This creamy, egg-free custard offers a light and refreshing end to any meal, combining the richness of sour cream with the sweetness of vanilla for a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Paired with a vibrant Raspberry Coulis, the bright tartness of fresh berries perfectly balances the creaminess of the panna cotta. Served elegantly in heart-shaped ramekins, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. The leftover coulis can enhance a variety of desserts, including ice cream, tarts, or even yogurt, making this an adaptable and enticing recipe.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cream
1 cup (none)
Sugar
1/2 cup (divided (3 tablespoons for sauce))
Unflavored gelatin
1 package (none)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
Sour cream
1 cup (none)
Fresh raspberries or frozen raspberries (thawed)
1 pint or 12 ounces (if using frozen raspberries, ensure they are thawed)
Fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons (strained)
Instructions
1
In a small saucepan, combine the cream, sugar, and unflavored gelatin. Heat over medium-low heat while stirring continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
2
Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3
Carefully pour the panna cotta mixture into individual ramekins or dessert dishes, filling them evenly.
4
Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until set.
5
While the panna cotta is chilling, prepare the Raspberry Coulis. In a blender, combine the fresh or thawed raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
6
Strain the raspberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, using a rubber spatula to press the puree through while leaving the seeds behind.
7
Taste the coulis and adjust the sweetness as needed by adding more sugar or lemon juice, then set aside in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
8
To serve, carefully remove the panna cotta from the refrigerator. Top each ramekin with a generous drizzle of Raspberry Coulis and garnish with additional fresh raspberries or blueberries.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Sour Cream Panna Cotta?
It is a luxurious, egg-free Italian-style custard that uses sour cream to provide a rich, tangy depth of flavor compared to traditional recipes.
Is this panna cotta recipe egg-free?
Yes, this panna cotta is entirely egg-free, as it uses unflavored gelatin to achieve its smooth, set texture.
How long does the panna cotta need to refrigerate?
The panna cotta should be refrigerated for at least 3 hours, or until it is completely set.
What is Raspberry Coulis?
Raspberry Coulis is a smooth, vibrant sauce made from blended and strained raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
Can I use frozen raspberries for the coulis?
Yes, you can use either fresh raspberries or frozen raspberries that have been thawed.
How do I ensure the gelatin is properly dissolved?
Combine the gelatin with cream and sugar in a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat while stirring continuously until no granules remain.
Why is sour cream used in this recipe?
Sour cream adds a slight tanginess and a velvety richness that balances the sweetness of the sugar and vanilla.
Do I need to strain the raspberry sauce?
Yes, straining the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve is recommended to remove the seeds for a smooth, professional finish.
How do I adjust the sweetness of the raspberry coulis?
You can taste the finished coulis and add more sugar if it is too tart, or more lemon juice if it is too sweet.
What type of containers should I use for serving?
Individual ramekins or dessert dishes work best. Heart-shaped ramekins are specifically suggested for an elegant presentation.
Can I use other berries for the coulis?
While this recipe specifies raspberries, you can easily adapt it using strawberries, blackberries, or blueberries.
Is the lemon juice necessary for the sauce?
The lemon juice provides a bright acidity that enhances the natural flavor of the berries and balances the sugar.
How should I store leftover panna cotta?
Keep any leftovers covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I do with leftover raspberry coulis?
Leftover coulis is great on ice cream, tarts, yogurt, or even pancakes.
Can I make this dessert a day in advance?
Yes, making it a day ahead is a great idea as it ensures the custard has plenty of time to set properly.
What is the best way to garnish this dish?
Top the panna cotta with a drizzle of coulis and fresh whole raspberries or blueberries for a beautiful look.
Does the panna cotta need to be cooked?
Only the cream, sugar, and gelatin are heated to dissolve the gelatin; the entire mixture is then chilled to set rather than baked.
What is the texture of this dessert?
It has a light, silky, and creamy consistency that melts in your mouth.
Can I use vanilla bean instead of extract?
Yes, you can scrape a vanilla bean into the cream mixture for a more intense flavor and visual vanilla specks.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
This recipe requires 7 main ingredients: cream, sugar, gelatin, vanilla, sour cream, raspberries, and lemon juice.
Is this recipe considered difficult?
No, it is an easy recipe that primarily involves simple heating, whisking, blending, and chilling.
Can I use a low-fat sour cream?
For the most decadent and stable result, full-fat sour cream is recommended, but low-fat can be used with a slight change in richness.
Should I cover the ramekins in the fridge?
Yes, covering them with plastic wrap prevents the panna cotta from absorbing other refrigerator odors and keeps the surface from drying out.
Can I unmold the panna cotta onto a plate?
Yes, you can briefly dip the bottom of the ramekin in warm water to help release the edges if you prefer to serve it on a plate.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use flavored gelatin?
It is best to use unflavored gelatin so the delicate flavors of the vanilla and sour cream are not overwhelmed.
How much gelatin is in one package?
A standard package of unflavored gelatin is typically about 1/4 ounce or roughly 2.25 teaspoons.
What is the role of sugar in the panna cotta?
Sugar sweetens the cream base and helps the gelatin dissolve evenly into the liquid.
Is this a good dessert for Valentine's Day?
Absolutely! Using heart-shaped ramekins and the red raspberry coulis makes it a perfect romantic treat.
Can I use heavy whipping cream?
Yes, heavy whipping cream is the ideal choice for achieving the desired decadent texture in this recipe.