Velvety Vanilla Panna Cotta
Indulge in the creamy, smooth texture of this Velvety Vanilla Panna Cotta, a classic Italian dessert that is effortlessly elegant and incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this panna cotta promises a delightful balance of rich creaminess and aromatic vanilla essence. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert can be beautifully presented in individual ramekins or inverted onto plates for a stunning display. Serve it chilled with a sprinkle of fresh berries or a drizzle of your favorite fruit coulis for a refreshing finish that complements the richness of the panna cotta. Impress your guests or treat yourself to this delightful treat that always leaves a lasting impression.
4
Servings
240
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
half-and-half
1/2 cup (none)
unflavored gelatin
1 (1/4 ounce) envelope (none)
heavy cream
2 cups (none)
pure vanilla extract
2 teaspoons (none)
white sugar
6 tablespoons (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the half-and-half and let it stand for about 5 minutes to soften.
2
Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring gently until the gelatin completely dissolves, ensuring not to bring it to a boil.
3
Once dissolved, gradually whisk in the heavy cream, followed by half of the sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
4
Continue to stir the mixture over low heat until the sugar dissolves completely, tasting along the way to adjust the vanilla amount if desired.
5
Lightly coat the insides of four 1/2 cup ramekins with a thin layer of canola oil to facilitate easy removal later.
6
Carefully ladle the warm cream mixture into the prepared ramekins, filling each to the brim.
7
Allow the ramekins to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring them to the refrigerator.
8
Chill the panna cotta in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or until set.
9
To serve, you may either enjoy the panna cotta directly in the ramekins or invert them onto a plate for a lovely presentation.
10
Garnish with fresh fruit or coulis before serving to enhance the flavor.
Nutrition Information
18g
Fat
14g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Velvety Vanilla Panna Cotta?
Velvety Vanilla Panna Cotta is a classic Italian dessert known for its creamy, smooth texture and aromatic vanilla essence, often served chilled with fruit.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 individual servings.
What are the primary ingredients for panna cotta?
The main ingredients include half-and-half, unflavored gelatin, heavy cream, pure vanilla extract, and white sugar.
How long should the gelatin soften before heating?
The unflavored gelatin should be sprinkled over the half-and-half and allowed to stand for about 5 minutes to soften.
Can I boil the cream and gelatin mixture?
No, you should heat the mixture over low heat and stir gently to dissolve the gelatin, ensuring it does not come to a boil.
How much heavy cream is required for this recipe?
You will need 2 cups of heavy cream to achieve the desired richness and texture.
How much vanilla extract should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, though you can adjust the amount to your taste.
What is the calorie count for one serving of panna cotta?
One serving of this Velvety Vanilla Panna Cotta contains approximately 240 calories.
How much fat is in each serving?
Each serving contains 18g of fat.
How many grams of carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 14g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content of this dessert?
Each serving provides about 2.5g of protein.
How do I prepare the ramekins for the panna cotta?
Lightly coat the insides of four 1/2 cup ramekins with a thin layer of canola oil to make the panna cotta easier to remove later.
How long does the panna cotta need to chill in the refrigerator?
The dessert should be chilled for at least 4 hours, or until it is completely set.
Should the mixture be cooled before refrigerating?
Yes, allow the filled ramekins to cool at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes before placing them in the fridge.
Can I serve panna cotta directly in the ramekin?
Yes, you can enjoy it directly from the ramekin or invert it onto a plate for a more formal presentation.
What are some recommended garnishes for this dessert?
Fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit coulis are excellent choices to complement the rich vanilla flavor.
Is this recipe considered difficult to make?
No, this is an easy-to-follow recipe that uses simple ingredients to create an elegant result.
What kind of sugar is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifies 6 tablespoons of white sugar to provide the necessary sweetness.
What is the purpose of the half-and-half?
Half-and-half is used as the base to soften the gelatin and contributes to the overall creamy texture.
Is there any fiber in this panna cotta?
Based on the nutritional information, this recipe does not contain any fiber.
What type of gelatin should I buy?
You should use unflavored gelatin, specifically one standard 1/4 ounce envelope.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the panna cotta?
While the recipe calls for 6 tablespoons of sugar, you can taste the mixture while it's heating to ensure it meets your preference.
Is this a good dessert for a special occasion?
Yes, its elegant presentation and rich flavor make it ideal for dinner parties or special celebrations.
What should I do if the sugar isn't dissolving?
Continue to stir the mixture over low heat until the sugar dissolves completely; do not increase the heat too high.
What is the texture of a properly made panna cotta?
A successful panna cotta should be silky, smooth, and firm enough to hold its shape while still having a slight wobble.
How do I ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved?
Stir the mixture gently over low heat and check for any remaining granules; the liquid should be completely smooth.
Can I make this recipe in a single large mold?
While this recipe specifies four 1/2 cup ramekins, you could use a larger mold, though chilling time may vary.
Is panna cotta served warm or cold?
Panna cotta is always served cold after it has had time to set in the refrigerator.
What is the prep time involved for this recipe?
Active preparation is relatively short, involving about 10-15 minutes of cooking, followed by 4 hours of chilling.
Does this recipe contain any sodium or cholesterol info?
The provided nutritional data for this specific recipe lists sodium and cholesterol as null.