Hey Lykkers, Looking for a dessert that feels fancy but is actually super easy to make? Let’s talk about panna cotta — a creamy Italian treat that’s smooth, chilled, and pairs beautifully with fresh fruits. Whether you're planning a dinner party or just want something sweet and refreshing after a long day, panna cotta is your go-to.
Today, we're sharing two must-try versions: one classic with berry compote and one tropical with coconut and mango. Let’s get into it.
What is Panna Cotta?
Panna cotta, which means "cooked cream" in Italian, is a dessert made by gently heating cream and sugar, then combining it with gelatin and chilling until it sets. It has a silky texture, just the right amount of sweetness, and can be customized with endless toppings. Think berries, mangoes, passionfruit, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate.
Why Pair It with Fruit?
Fresh fruits brighten up panna cotta with natural sweetness and acidity. The creamy base needs that little lift, and fruits do just the trick. Plus, they add color and make your dessert look beautiful on the plate.
Recipe 1: Classic Vanilla Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
This dessert is the perfect blend of elegance and harmony — silky vanilla panna cotta crowned with a tangy berry sauce.
Ingredients
For the panna cotta:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, split)
- 2 ½ teaspoons unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
For the berry compote:
- 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
1. Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Heat the base: In a saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
3. Add vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract or scrape seeds from the vanilla bean and add both seeds and pod.
4. Mix in gelatin: Remove from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved.
5. Chill: Pour the mixture into ramekins or serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
6. Make the compote: In a saucepan, cook berries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat until the berries soften and the sauce thickens slightly (about 8–10 minutes). Cool before serving.
7. Serve: Spoon the berry compote over the chilled panna cotta and enjoy.
Recipe 2: Coconut Panna Cotta with Mango
This version brings tropical vibes, perfect for summer days or when you want a lighter, dairy-free option.
Ingredients
- 1 can (400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup almond milk or other plant-based milk
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and sliced thinly
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
1. Bloom the gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to absorb and soften.
2. Heat the base: In a saucepan, mix coconut milk, almond milk, and sugar. Heat gently until sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
3. Add vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Dissolve gelatin: Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
5. Chill: Pour into molds or glasses and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours.
6. Serve: Top with fresh mango slices and a few mint leaves if desired.
So, Lykkers, whether you're into the creamy classic with berries or the coconut-mango tropical twist, these panna cotta recipes are sure to impress without the fuss. Give them a try and tell us which one wins you over!
