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Easy Panna Cotta with Berry Sauce Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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