Easy Panna Cotta Recipe with Berry Sauce

Indulge in creamy Italian Panna Cotta topped with sweet & tangy berry sauce. Easy recipe with gelatin, heavy cream & fresh berries. Perfect dessert for weddings, dinner parties & special occasions.

Ingredients

For Panna Cotta:

1. 1 cup whole milk
2. 2 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin (1 packet Knox gelatin)
3. 2 cups heavy whipping cream
4. 1/2 cup + 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
5. Pinch salt
6. 1 tsp vanilla extract
7. 1 cup sour cream

For Berry Sauce:

1. 2 cups mixed berries (raspberries and quartered strawberries)
2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
3. 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Gelatin

1. In a medium saucepan, sprinkle gelatin over 1 cup milk.
2. Let stand 3-5 minutes or until gelatin softens.
3. Heat over medium/low, stirring until gelatin dissolves (4-5 minutes, no boiling).

Step 2: Make Panna Cotta

1. Add heavy cream, sugar, vanilla and salt. Stir until sugar dissolves (5 minutes).
2. Remove from heat; cool 5 minutes.
3. Whisk sour cream in a separate bowl.
4. Gradually add warm cream mixture; whisk smooth.
5. Strain through a fine mesh sieve (optional).
6. Divide into 6 glass cups or 8 ramekins.
7. Refrigerate 4-6 hours or until set.

Step 3: Make Berry Sauce

1. Combine 1 cup berries, lemon juice and sugar in a saucepan.
2. Simmer 4-5 minutes or until syrupy.
3. Stir in remaining berries.
4. Cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Serve

1. Spoon berry sauce over chilled panna cotta.
2. Serve chilled.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy texture: Rich and smooth panna cotta.
2. Easy preparation: Simple steps, no baking.
3. Customizable: Mix and match berry combinations.
4. Impressive dessert: Perfect for gatherings.

Tips

1. Use high-quality gelatin: Ensures proper setting.
2. Don’t overheat: Prevents gelatin breakdown.
3. Whisk smoothly: Avoids lumps in panna cotta.
4. Chill thoroughly: Essential for set texture.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Flavorings: Add liqueurs (e.g., vanilla, almond) or citrus zest.
2. Fruit options: Replace berries with peaches, mango or kiwi.
3. Dairy alternatives: Use almond milk or coconut cream.
4. Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

FAQs

1. Why didn’t my panna cotta set?: Check gelatin expiration, heating time and refrigeration.
2. Can I make ahead?: Prepare panna cotta and berry sauce separately, assemble just before serving.
3. How long does panna cotta last?: Refrigerate up to 3 days.

Serving and Suggestions

1. Garnish with fresh berries: Adds color and freshness.
2. Pair with shortbread cookies: Complementary textures.
3. Serve chilled: Optimal flavor and texture.
4. Perfect for: Dessert, brunch or special occasions.