Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of common ingredients.
- No Baking Needed: A great option for those without an oven.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for entertaining.
- Versatile Presentation: Serve in individual cups or unmolded for a more formal look.
- Light and Refreshing: A perfect balance of creamy and fruity flavors.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh strawberries
- Granulated sugar
- Unflavored gelatin powder
- Cold water
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Strawberry Puree: Wash and hull the strawberries. Blend them into a smooth puree. Strain to remove seeds if desired.
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to soften.
- Heat the Dairy Mixture: In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm, but not boiling.
- Incorporate Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the bloomed gelatin and stir until fully dissolved.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and the prepared strawberry puree until well combined.
- Pour into Molds: Divide the mixture among serving glasses or molds. Allow them to cool to room temperature.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Serve: If using molds, briefly dip them in warm water to loosen before unmolding. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Berry Medley: Replace strawberries with a mix of berries like raspberries and blueberries.
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a citrusy note.
- Chocolate Infusion: Drizzle with chocolate sauce before serving for added richness.
- Herbal Hint: Infuse the cream with basil or mint leaves during heating, then strain before adding gelatin.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as freezing can alter the texture.
- Reheating: Not applicable; serve chilled.
FAQs
What is panna cotta?
Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made by setting sweetened cream with gelatin, resulting in a smooth, custard-like texture.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before blending into a puree.
How do I prevent lumps in the gelatin?
Ensure the gelatin is fully bloomed in cold water and dissolved completely in the warm cream mixture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or coconut milk, keeping in mind the flavor and texture may vary.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace gelatin with agar-agar, following the package instructions for proper setting.
How long does it take to set?
Typically, panna cotta sets in about 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day in advance and keep refrigerated until serving.
How do I unmold panna cotta neatly?
Dip the mold’s bottom in warm water for a few seconds, then invert onto a plate. The panna cotta should release easily.
What can I use as a topping?
Fresh berries, fruit coulis, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of honey complement panna cotta well.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, feel free to modify the sugar quantity to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Strawberry Panna Cotta is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Its creamy texture and fresh strawberry flavor make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With easy preparation and the ability to make it ahead, it’s a perfect addition to your dessert repertoire.
Print
Strawberry Panna Cotta
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy Strawberry Panna Cotta recipe is a creamy, no-bake Italian dessert made with fresh strawberries and gelatin. Perfect for beginners, it’s light, elegant, and ideal for make-ahead entertaining. Keywords: strawberry panna cotta, easy panna cotta recipe, no-bake dessert, Italian panna cotta, creamy strawberry dessert.
Ingredients
Fresh strawberries
Granulated sugar
Unflavored gelatin powder
Cold water
Whole milk
Heavy cream
Vanilla extract
Instructions
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Make Strawberry Puree: Wash, hull, and blend strawberries into a smooth puree. Strain if desired.
-
Bloom Gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let sit for 5 minutes.
-
Heat Dairy: In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and sugar. Heat gently until sugar dissolves.
-
Add Gelatin: Remove from heat, stir in bloomed gelatin until dissolved.
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Flavor & Combine: Add vanilla and strawberry puree, mix thoroughly.
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Pour: Divide into serving cups or molds.
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Chill: Refrigerate at least 4 hours until set.
-
Serve: Unmold if desired and garnish with fresh strawberries.
Notes
Use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable (thawed and drained).
Adjust sugar to taste.
To unmold easily, dip molds briefly in warm water.
Not suitable for freezing as texture may change.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
