Vanilla Panna Cotta

Vanilla Panna Cotta is one of these desserts that i always think about when i want something creamy and light. This classic recipe needs just some simple steps, and you could easily make it in your kitchen with the things we all have. It has that silky-smooth texture we all love, and the vanilla flavor really comes through. Then, we add peaches on top and you get a fresh, tasty finish.

Why This is the Best Vanilla Panna Cotta

This vanilla panna cotta stands out because it delivers a velvet-smooth, rich consistency without too much effort. When I make this at home, I like how the vanilla and cream balance each other; you can actually taste them both. This recipe uses just enough gelatin to hold its shape but still slip gently on your spoon. You could enjoy this plain or add some fruit on top, like sweet macerated peaches, and anyone at your table will be glad.

What is Panna Cotta?

Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made from sweetened cream thickened with gelatin. It means “cooked cream” in Italian, but the truth is, it hardly takes any cooking. The cream gets warmed with sugar and vanilla, blended with gelatin, then chilled until it firms up. It’s easy to dress up or keep simple.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Panna Cotta

• 4 teaspoons powdered unflavored gelatin (or 2 ¾ silver gelatin sheets)
• 6 tablespoons cold water (only if using powdered gelatin)
• ⅓ cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ vanilla bean, split & scraped
• Pinch kosher salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream

For the Macerated Peaches

• 1 cup peaches, peeled and sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice (to taste)

How to Make Vanilla Panna Cotta

1. Set 6 molds or ramekins on a baking sheet. Spray each with a light coating of nonstick spray.
2. If using powdered gelatin: Mix gelatin and cold water together in a small bowl, then let it rest for about 5 minutes.
   If using gelatin sheets: Put the sheets in a bowl of ice water and let them soften for 5 minutes, then squeeze out any water.
3. In a small pot, warm up ½ cup heavy cream, the milk, vanilla bean seeds, pinch of salt, and sugar. Stir until the sugar melts. When it just starts to boil, turn off the heat.
4. Add your bloomed gelatin to the hot cream mixture and stir until dissolved.
5. In a larger bowl or a blender, add the rest of the cold heavy cream and vanilla extract. Pour the warm cream and gelatin mixture into this, blending or whisking gently until smooth.
6. Divide between your prepared molds. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge. Give it at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
7. When you’re ready to serve, loosen the panna cotta by running the mold under hot water for a few seconds. Place your serving plate on top, flip, and give a gentle shake to release.

How to Serve Vanilla Panna Cotta

I usually top these with the macerated peaches just before serving. You could add a little more fresh fruit, or even a drizzle of honey. If you’re feeling fancy, use a fluted mold for a pretty shape, but simple ramekins look nice too. You can serve them straight from the molds or unmold onto plates.

Tips for Making Vanilla Panna Cotta

• Chill the panna cotta long enough to let it set—overnight gives the best texture.
• Don’t skip the nonstick spray; it really helps with unmolding.
• For the smoothest finish, you could strain the mixture before filling the molds.
• If you want a stronger vanilla taste, use a whole vanilla bean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruit instead of peaches?
Yes, berries or even poached pears work well as a topping.

How do I know when panna cotta is set?
It should be firm enough to stand, but still jiggle when you gently shake the mold.

Can I make these in advance?
You can prepare it a day before serving and keep it chilled. The flavor stays fresh.

What if I don’t have gelatin sheets?
Powdered gelatin and gelatin sheets both work. The instructions above show you how to use either.

This vanilla panna cotta recipe is easy to follow and gives you a creamy, classic Italian dessert each time.

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