Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe

Introduction

This Strawberry Panna Cotta is a silky, creamy dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of fresh strawberries with rich cream. It’s an elegant treat that’s surprisingly simple to make and sure to impress at any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup half and half
• 1 packet unflavored powdered gelatin
• 1 cup fresh strawberry puree
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch sea salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place six 4-ounce ramekins, custard cups, silicone molds, or dessert cups on a small baking sheet and grease them lightly with baking spray or butter.
2. Step 2: Pour the half and half into a small saucepan and sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
3. Step 3: Heat the gelatin mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
4. Step 4: Add the fresh strawberry puree and sugar to the saucepan. Continue heating and stirring occasionally for another 3-4 minutes until the sugar has dissolved.
5. Step 5: Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
6. Step 6: Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids, then pour it evenly into the prepared ramekins or cups.
7. Step 7: Transfer the baking sheet with the filled ramekins to the refrigerator. Chill for 2-6 hours until the panna cotta is completely set, or refrigerate overnight for the best texture.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor depth, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the strawberry puree before mixing.
• Try swapping strawberry puree for other fruit purees like mango or raspberry for variation.
• Use fresh strawberries as a garnish for a beautiful presentation.
• If you prefer a firmer panna cotta, increase the gelatin to one and a half packets.

Storage

Store panna cotta in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Re-chill before serving; panna cotta is best served cold and does not reheat well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use gelatin sheets instead of powdered gelatin?

Yes, you can substitute gelatin sheets. Use about 2 sheets, soak them in cold water until soft, then dissolve them into the warm half and half mixture as directed.

Can I prepare panna cotta ahead of time?

Absolutely. Panna cotta can be made a day ahead and refrigerated overnight. This allows it to set properly and enhances the flavors.

Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 58 reviews

This Strawberry Panna Cotta is a luscious and creamy Italian dessert, featuring a delicate blend of fresh strawberry puree, creamy half and half, and heavy cream, all set with gelatin. Perfectly sweetened with granulated sugar and infused with vanilla, this chilled dessert is elegant yet easy to make, ideal for warm days or special occasions.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Gelatin Base

• 1/2 cup half and half
• 1 packet unflavored powdered gelatin (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)

Fruit and Sweetener

• 1 cup fresh strawberry puree
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

Cream Mixture

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch sea salt

Instructions

1. Prepare Ramekins: Lightly grease six 4-ounce ramekins, custard cups, or silicone molds with baking spray or butter, and arrange them on a baking sheet for easy handling.
2. Bloom Gelatin: Pour the half and half into a small saucepan and evenly sprinkle the unflavored powdered gelatin over the surface. Allow it to sit undisturbed for 5 minutes so the gelatin can absorb the liquid and bloom.
3. Dissolve Gelatin: Gently heat the gelatin mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for 3-4 minutes, until the gelatin is fully dissolved and the liquid is smooth.
4. Add Strawberry and Sugar: Stir in the fresh strawberry puree and granulated sugar to the saucepan. Continue heating and stirring intermittently for another 3-4 minutes, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
5. Combine Cream and Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt until fully incorporated.
6. Strain Mixture: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl or jug to remove any lumps or seeds, ensuring a silky smooth panna cotta texture.
7. Chill to Set: Immediately pour the strained mixture into the prepared ramekins. Transfer the baking sheet with the panna cotta cups to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, but ideally 4-6 hours or overnight, until the dessert is completely set and firm.

Notes

• Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor for the puree, but you can use frozen strawberries that are thawed and pureed if fresh are unavailable.
• For a dairy-free alternative, substitute half and half and heavy cream with coconut cream, though texture will vary slightly.
• Make sure to evenly bloom the gelatin without stirring to prevent lumps.
• Straining the mixture helps achieve a smooth and silky panna cotta.
• The panna cotta can be prepared a day ahead for convenience and better flavor integration.
• Serve with fresh strawberry slices or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for an elegant presentation.

Keywords: strawberry panna cotta, italian dessert, creamy panna cotta, gelatin dessert, fresh strawberry dessert, chilled dessert