Hello, food lovers! 🌟 Today, I’m sharing a dessert recipe that is as elegant as it is simple: Vanilla Panna Cotta with Strawberry Sauce. This creamy, silky Italian dessert is paired with a vibrant strawberry sauce that adds a delightful burst of fruity sweetness. It’s perfect for everything from cozy dinners to dazzling dinner parties! And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to make it.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Creamy: The panna cotta is rich and velvety with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Perfect Balance: The sweetness of the vanilla panna cotta pairs beautifully with the tangy strawberry sauce.
- Make-Ahead Wonder: Prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining.
- Simple Elegance: Minimal ingredients, maximum impact—this dessert looks and tastes like a showstopper!
What Does Vanilla Panna Cotta Taste Like?
Imagine a spoonful of luscious cream, lightly sweetened and perfumed with vanilla, paired with a bright, fruity topping. It’s smooth, rich, and indulgent, but with a refreshing twist from the strawberries. A perfect dessert to finish any meal!
Benefits of Making Panna Cotta at Home
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, use your favorite toppings, or even make it dairy-free.
- No-Bake Goodness: No need for an oven—just some stovetop magic.
- Budget-Friendly Elegance: Impress your guests without breaking the bank.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Vanilla Panna Cotta:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped)
- 2 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp cold water
For the Strawberry Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Small bowl for blooming gelatin
- Whisk
- Fine mesh strainer
- Serving glasses or ramekins
- Blender or food processor (for the sauce)
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the heavy cream and milk for coconut cream and almond milk.
- Berry Variations: Use raspberries, blueberries, or a mix instead of strawberries.
- Sugar Substitutes: Use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative to suit your preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bloom the Gelatin
In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom. This ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
2. Prepare the Cream Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil! Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract (or the vanilla bean seeds).
3. Add the Gelatin
Once the cream mixture is warm (not hot), whisk in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
4. Pour and Chill
Divide the mixture among serving glasses or ramekins. Let them cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Make the Strawberry Sauce
In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries break down, about 10 minutes. Blend until smooth, then strain for a silky texture. If you prefer a thicker sauce, return it to the pan and stir in the cornstarch slurry, cooking until thickened.
6. Serve
Spoon the strawberry sauce over the chilled panna cotta and garnish with fresh strawberries or mint leaves for an extra touch of flair.
What to Serve with Vanilla Panna Cotta
- Shortbread Cookies: A crunchy contrast to the creamy dessert.
- Espresso or Coffee: The perfect pairing to balance the sweetness.
- Prosecco or Champagne: For a celebratory touch.
Tips for Perfect Panna Cotta
- Gentle Heating: Avoid boiling the cream to prevent a grainy texture.
- Strain the Mixture: For the smoothest panna cotta, strain the cream mixture before pouring it into the molds.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow ample time for the panna cotta to set in the fridge.
Storage Instructions
Store the panna cotta (without the sauce) covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The strawberry sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
FAQs
Can I Make Panna Cotta in Advance?
Absolutely! This dessert is best when made a day ahead, giving it plenty of time to set and the flavors to meld.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Sauce?
Yes! Just thaw them first, or cook them directly from frozen—either works well.
What If My Panna Cotta Doesn’t Set?
Check that your gelatin was fully dissolved. If needed, warm the cream mixture slightly and whisk in a bit more bloomed gelatin.
Conclusion
Vanilla Panna Cotta with Strawberry Sauce is the kind of dessert that turns a simple meal into a celebration. Its velvety texture and vibrant topping make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or treating yourself, this recipe is a must-try!
If you love this recipe, don’t forget to leave a review and share your creations on Pinterest. I can’t wait to see your take on this classic dessert!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 4g
Hungry for more? Check out my other recipes featuring strawberries, like Strawberry Shortcake or Strawberry Lemonade Bars! 🌸