Save Celebrate your romantic evening with this silky, creamy Italian dessert. Featuring vanilla-infused cream topped with a vibrant, homemade strawberry sauce, this panna cotta is the perfect sweet finish for a Valentine's Day celebration. It is elegant, light, and wonderfully simple to prepare ahead of time.
Save Panna cotta, which literally translates to "cooked cream" in Italian, is a timeless classic. This version highlights the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries, balanced with a touch of lemon juice and the rich depth of pure vanilla extract.
Ingredients
- For the Panna Cotta
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
- 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp (7 g) powdered gelatin
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- For the Strawberry Sauce
- 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Mint leaves
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the milk and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
- Step 2
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the cream is hot but not boiling.
- Step 3
- Remove from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved.
- Step 4
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Step 5
- Pour the mixture evenly into 4 serving glasses or ramekins. Let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Step 6
- For the strawberry sauce, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices.
- Step 7
- Mash slightly, then let cool. For a smoother sauce, blend until desired consistency.
- Step 8
- Once the panna cotta has set, spoon the strawberry sauce over each serving.
- Step 9
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and mint leaves if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a perfect set, ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved in the hot cream before adding vanilla. This recipe contains dairy and animal-based gelatin. Nutritionally, each serving provides 310 calories, 22g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein. Always double-check labels if you have specific dietary sensitivities.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to substitute the strawberries with raspberries or mixed berries for a different flavor profile. For those looking for a slightly lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, though the result will be less rich.
Serviervorschläge
To elevate the presentation, garnish with fresh sliced strawberries and a sprig of mint. For a festive touch, pair this creamy dessert with a chilled glass of sparkling rosé or a light dessert wine.
Save Whether you are celebrating with a partner or treating yourself, this Valentine's Day Strawberry Panna Cotta is a delightful way to enjoy the season's flavors. Simple ingredients and a little patience result in a restaurant-quality dessert right in your own kitchen.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to bloom gelatin?
Sprinkle gelatin evenly over cold milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb liquid and dissolve easily when heated.
- → Can I use other berries for the sauce?
Yes, raspberries or mixed berries can replace strawberries for a different flavor twist while maintaining a fresh fruity sauce.
- → How can I tell when the panna cotta is set?
After at least 4 hours chilling, the dessert should be firm to the touch yet smooth and silky when spooned.
- → Is it necessary to cook the strawberry sauce?
Cooking softens the berries, releases juices, and enhances sweetness, creating a rich, balanced sauce.
- → What can I use for garnish aside from mint?
Fresh sliced strawberries complement the dessert's flavor and add a vibrant, inviting appearance.