How to Create Creamy Strawberry Panna Cotta: A Simple Guide for Dessert Lovers
Strawberry panna cotta is a delicious, creamy dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. The name “panna cotta” means “cooked cream” in Italian, and that’s essentially what this dessert is—a silky combination of cream, sugar, and gelatin, topped with a smooth strawberry layer. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to create creamy strawberry panna cotta step by step using simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
What You’ll Need:
Before we start, gather the following ingredients:
For the Creamy Layer:
– 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
– 1/3 cup (70 g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) unflavored gelatin
– 2 tablespoons (30 ml) cold water
For the Strawberry Layer:
– 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries (or frozen, thawed)
– 2–3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
– 2 tablespoons (30 ml) cold water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Panna Cotta Base
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Bloom the Gelatin
Start by sprinkling the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. This process is called “blooming” and allows the gelatin to soften and dissolve later. -
Heat the Cream and Sugar
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely. Be careful not to let it boil—just let it get hot. -
Add Vanilla and Gelatin
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Then add the bloomed gelatin and whisk until it’s fully dissolved. Gelatin is what gives panna cotta its soft, wobbly texture, so this step is crucial! -
Pour and Chill
Pour the creamy mixture into serving glasses, ramekins, or small bowls. Let the bowls cool at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before transferring them to the fridge. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight until the panna cotta sets completely.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Topping
While the creamy layer is chilling in the fridge, you can prepare the strawberry topping.
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Blend the Strawberries
Place the strawberries in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove seeds. -
Add Sugar and Lemon Juice
In a small saucepan, combine the strawberry puree, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the flavors meld together. Taste the sauce and adjust the sugar depending on how sweet your strawberries are. -
Bloom and Dissolve Gelatin
Just like you did for the creamy layer, bloom 1 teaspoon of gelatin in 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir it into the warm strawberry puree. Whisk until the gelatin is fully dissolved. -
Cool the Topping
Remove the strawberry mixture from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. You don’t want it too hot, as this could melt the panna cotta base.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert
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Add the Strawberry Layer
Once the creamy panna cotta layer has set (it should be firm to the touch but still have a slight jiggle), gently pour the cooled strawberry mixture over the top of each serving dish. Spread it evenly for a smooth finish. -
Chill Again
Place the assembled desserts back in the fridge for another 2 hours, or until the strawberry layer is firm.
Tips for Serving:
- Garnish your panna cotta with fresh strawberries, mint leaves, or a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
- Serve it cold straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
- You can use clear glasses or jars to showcase the beautiful layers of cream and strawberries.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
Strawberry panna cotta is indulgent yet light, making it perfect for any occasion. You’ll enjoy the creamy vanilla layer paired with the sweet and slightly tangy strawberry topping. Plus, it’s such a versatile dessert—you can experiment with different flavors by swapping the strawberries for other fruits like mango, raspberry, or blueberry.
Final Thoughts
Making creamy strawberry panna cotta might sound intimidating at first, but once you try it, you’ll see how simple—and satisfying—it can be. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a professional-looking dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this panna cotta is a dessert worth trying.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the magic of creating this smooth, creamy, and fruity delight. Happy cooking!
