Easy Panna Cotta Every Time! Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert

heavy cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

vanilla bean

🥗Healthier: vanilla extract

💰Cheaper: vanilla essence

Vanilla extract is easier to find and less expensive.

fruit puree

🥗Healthier: fresh fruit

💰Cheaper: canned fruit

Fresh fruit provides natural sweetness and flavor.

Add 2 cups of milk to a saucepan and sprinkle with 1 packet of unflavored gelatin. Let sit off the heat for about five minutes.

Set the pan over medium-low heat and stir until the gelatin dissolves and the mixture starts to steam, about 4 to 5 minutes. Do not boil.

Add 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. Whisk together and continue stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is steaming, about 5 minutes. Do not boil.

Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for about five minutes.

In a second medium mixing bowl, add 1 cup of thick sour cream. While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the slightly cooled milk mixture to temper the sour cream.

Once well combined, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve (optional).

Pour the mixture into ramekins or small glass containers. Set them on a baking sheet for easier transfer.

Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and let the panna cotta fully set for about 4 to 6 hours, or longer if desired.

To make the berry sauce, add half of the berries (1 cup) to a small saucepan with 1/2 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1/4 cup of sugar. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until thickened and syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

For serving, dip the panna cotta ramekins in hot water for 5 to 10 seconds to loosen. Run a sharp knife around the edge to help release it.

Invert the panna cotta onto a serving plate and drizzle with the berry sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens