A homemade chilled vanilla dessert is a classic and elegant treat that is perfect for any occasion. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for Chilled Vanilla Panna Cotta—a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert with the delicate flavor of vanilla.
Chilled Vanilla Panna Cotta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- Fresh berries or fruit compote (for garnish)
- Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the gelatin:
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the 3 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to soften and bloom. - Heat the cream mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise, scrape out the seeds, and add both the seeds and the pod to the saucepan (if using vanilla extract, you’ll add it later). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat. - Dissolve the gelatin:
Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm cream mixture and stir until completely dissolved. If you are using vanilla extract instead of a vanilla bean, stir it in at this stage. - Strain and pour:
Remove the vanilla pod (if using) and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a smooth texture. Pour the mixture into individual ramekins, cups, or molds. - Chill:
Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the panna cotta is fully set. The texture should be firm but still jiggly like a custard. - Serve:
Once set, you can serve the panna cotta in the ramekins, or if you prefer, gently loosen the edges with a knife and unmold them onto a plate. Garnish with fresh berries, a drizzle of fruit compote, and a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.
