Easy Panna Cotta with Berry Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Panna cotta is a silky, creamy Italian dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This easy panna cotta recipe combines a smooth, rich base with a fresh berry sauce for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. It’s an elegant treat that requires minimal ingredients and effort.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin (1 packet Knox gelatin)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup + 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
• pinch salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups berries, divided (1 cup raspberries and 1 cup quartered strawberries)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Step 1: Off the heat, pour 1 cup of whole milk into a medium saucepan. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the milk and let it sit for 3-5 minutes to soften.
2. Step 2: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir gently until the gelatin dissolves and the mixture is steaming, about 4-5 minutes. Do not let it boil.
3. Step 3: Add 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the pan. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is steaming. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Place 1 cup sour cream into a medium bowl with a pouring lip. Gradually whisk the warm cream mixture into the sour cream until smooth. For an extra smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve.
5. Step 5: Quickly pour the panna cotta mixture into 6 glass cups or 8 ramekins. Refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours or until fully set.
6. Step 6: To make the berry sauce, combine 1 cup of the berries, 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1/4 cup sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a low boil and cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce becomes syrupy.
7. Step 7: Stir in the remaining 1 cup of fresh berries and remove the pan from heat. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature or just barely warm, then spoon it over the chilled panna cottas before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a fine mesh sieve to strain the panna cotta mixture for the smoothest texture.
• Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and lighter texture.
• Try topping with other fruits like mango, blueberries, or passion fruit for different seasonal flavors.
• For a dairy-free option, replace heavy cream and milk with full-fat coconut milk and use agar agar instead of gelatin.

Storage

Store panna cotta in airtight containers or covered ramekins in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the berry sauce separately in the fridge and add just before serving. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave if desired—do not reheat the panna cotta itself.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make panna cotta ahead of time?

Yes, panna cotta is perfect for making a day or two ahead. Just prepare and chill until set, then add the berry sauce just before serving for the freshest taste.

What can I substitute for gelatin?

If you prefer a vegetarian alternative, use agar agar powder following package instructions. Note that agar agar sets firmer and sets at room temperature, so chilling time and texture may vary slightly.

Easy Panna Cotta with Berry Sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 123 reviews

This Easy Panna Cotta recipe is a classic Italian dessert featuring a creamy, smooth gelatin-based custard topped with a fresh and vibrant berry sauce. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, and a hint of vanilla, it offers a perfect balance of richness and lightness. The silky panna cotta sets beautifully in individual cups, making it elegant and easy to serve for any occasion.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Panna Cotta

• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin (1 packet Knox gelatin)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup + 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
• pinch salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream

Berry Sauce

• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup quartered strawberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Bloom Gelatin: Off the heat, place 1 cup whole milk in a medium saucepan and sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top. Let it stand for 3-5 minutes until the gelatin softens and blooms.
2. Dissolve Gelatin: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and gently stir until the gelatin completely dissolves and the mixture is steaming, about 4-5 minutes. Be careful not to bring it to a boil.
3. Add Cream and Flavorings: Stir in 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue stirring for around 5 minutes until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture is hot and steaming without boiling. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
4. Incorporate Sour Cream: Place 1 cup sour cream in a medium bowl with a pouring lip. Gradually whisk the warm cream mixture into the sour cream until completely smooth. Optionally, strain through a fine mesh sieve for extra silky texture.
5. Chill Panna Cotta: Quickly divide the smooth panna cotta mixture evenly into 6 glass cups or 8 small ramekins. Refrigerate them for 4 to 6 hours or until fully set and firm.
6. Prepare Berry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of raspberries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice. Bring to a low boil and cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce becomes syrupy.
7. Finish Berry Sauce: Stir in the remaining 1 cup of quartered fresh strawberries, then remove the pan from heat. Allow the berry sauce to cool to room temperature or just slightly warm.
8. Serve: Spoon the berry sauce generously over the chilled panna cottas before serving for a fresh and delicious finish.

Notes

• Do not let the gelatin mixture boil, as this can affect setting.
• Straining the panna cotta mixture ensures a silky smooth texture but is optional.
• Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor in the sauce.
• This dessert can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
• For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though texture may vary.

Keywords: Panna Cotta, Italian dessert, gelatin dessert, creamy dessert, berry sauce, easy panna cotta