Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 packets unflavored gelatin (about 4 1/2 tsp)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for serving
- Pinch of salt
Special equipment needed:
- Six 6-ounce ramekins or custard cups
- Whisk
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine-mesh strainer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
3. Once the cream mixture is hot, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, caramel sauce, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the softened gelatin to the cream mixture and whisk until the gelatin has completely dissolved.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a large mixing bowl.
6. Divide the mixture evenly among the six ramekins or custard cups.
7. Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the panna cotta is set.
8. To serve, run a knife around the edge of each ramekin to loosen the panna cotta. Invert onto a plate and drizzle with additional caramel sauce.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Temperature:
Refrigerate at least 4 hours or until set.
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 437
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 108mg
Sugar: 26g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- You can use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.
Variations:
- You can add a layer of crushed cookies or graham cracker crumbs to the bottom of each ramekin before pouring in the panna cotta mixture.
- You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream mixture for a warm spice flavor.
- You can use chocolate sauce instead of caramel sauce for a chocolate panna cotta.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to let the gelatin soften in the water before adding it to the cream mixture to ensure it dissolves properly.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any lumps or air bubbles.
- To loosen the panna cotta from the ramekins, run a knife around the edge and dip the bottom of the ramekin in hot water for a few seconds.
Storage instructions:
Store the panna cotta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Panna cotta is best served cold, so there is no need to reheat it.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the panna cotta in clear glass cups or bowls to show off the layers.
Garnishes:
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top of each serving.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder.
- Add fresh berries or sliced fruit on top.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of coffee or espresso for a classic Italian dessert.
- Pair with a glass of dessert wine, such as Moscato or Port.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit or berries.
- Pair with a small cookie or biscotti.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the panna cotta doesn't set properly, try adding an extra packet of gelatin or letting it chill for a few more hours.
- If the panna cotta is too firm, try reducing the amount of gelatin or chilling it for less time.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use fresh, unexpired gelatin.
- Store the panna cotta in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers after 3 days.
Food history:
Panna cotta is a classic Italian dessert that originated in the Piedmont region. It is typically made with cream, sugar, and gelatin and served with a fruit sauce or caramel sauce.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, sweet, and rich with a hint of caramel.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the panna cotta chilled and topped with extra caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Caramelized, Rich