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Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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