Panna cotta is Italian for "cooked cream," and the name describes the dessert literally. It's pretty simple to make but takes a long time to set. You can also customize it to whatever flavor you wish! I've done lime and chocolate and it's been a huge hit, but you can flavor your panna cotta with anything from brandy to pomegranates or espresso!
One of the things you do need for this dish is a mold to serve it in. However, you can use something simple like a creme brulee dish, a martini glass, or a shallow bowl as well!
This recipe will make about 3-4 cups of panna cotta. This can serve up to 4 people.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: At least 4 hours
Ingredients:
2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated white sugar
Flavoring (Here, it's all up to what you want and how much of it. Some good ideas are lime, espresso, fruit, brandy, rum, maple syrup, or mint!)
1 1/2 packets gelatin powder
Cooking/Assembling:
1. Combine your milk and cream into a small pot with the sugar. Bring to a boil, and stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. At this point, add whatever flavoring you want and mix well.
3. While still at a boil, add in your gelatin and stir until dissolved. Take the mixture off of the heat, and pour into your serving dishes/glasses. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
4. Garnish with something cool that goes with your panna cotta! Chocolate shavings or ganache (rich sauce), mint leaves, or fresh fruit are all great ideas!
This dish is extremely simple to make, but it is important to let it chill for at least 3-4 hours so the gelatin can set. The end product should be slightly bouncy but not liquid anywhere. If you can nail this dish, it will be a great and cheap way to impress for Valentine's Day or any other holidays!
I hope you enjoyed this recipe! Let me know what you think and what you would change. If you make it at home or in your apartment, let me know how it turns out! Enjoy, and get cooking!
