How to Make Panna Cotta
This popular Italian dessert is striking and elegant yet very easy to make. Try it the next time you have dinner guests.
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You Will Need
- 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
- 2 tbsp. water
- 1 c. half and half
- 2 c. heavy cream
- ⅓ c. sugar
- 1½ tsp. vanilla extract
- 6 small custard cups or ramekins
- Fresh berries or fruit sauce
- Chocolate sauce
- Additional gelatin (optional)
- ½ vanilla bean (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Dissolve the gelatin
Add the gelatin to the water in a small saucepan. Heat gently and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Then remove from heat.
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Use more gelatin to get a firmer panna cotta.
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Step 2
Boil the cream
Bring the cream, half and half, and sugar to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir constantly to prevent scorching.
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Step 3
Add the vanilla and gelatin
Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract and gelatin mixture. Stir to combine.
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For richer flavor, split half a vanilla bean and scrape the seeds into the cream before heating.
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Step 4
Pour into molds
Pour the mixture into custard cups or ramekins.
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Step 5
Chill
Chill until set, at least six hours or overnight.
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Step 6
Unmold
Dip each mold into hot water for a few seconds to loosen, and then invert your panna cotta onto a plate.
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Step 7
Serve
Serve with fresh berries, fruit sauce, or chocolate sauce.
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Most pills contain gelatin either as a binding agent or a coating.
