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a panna cotta in a dessert glass next to a red napkin.
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5 from 7 votes

Panna Cotta For One

This single serving panna cotta is a smooth and creamy Italian dessert made with just a few simple ingredients. Lightly sweetened and delicately flavored with vanilla, it’s easy to make and perfect for one.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Chill4 hours
Total Time4 hours 25 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Keyword: cooked cream, panna cotta, pudding
Servings: 1 serving
Author: Joanie Zisk

Equipment

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • ½ teaspoon powdered unflavored gelatin
  • 1 ½ tablespoons sugar
  • 6 tablespoons heavy cream
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
US - Metric

Instructions

  • Prepare the Gelatin: Pour the milk into a small saucepan. Evenly sprinkle the gelatin over the surface and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
  • Warm the Milk: Place the saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the gelatin dissolves. Do not let the milk simmer or boil.
  • Add Sugar and Cream: Stir in the sugar until dissolved. Then add the cream and continue stirring until fully combined.
  • Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Chill: Pour the mixture into a ramekin or dessert bowl. Refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.

Notes

  • Use Gentle Heat: Warm the milk, cream, and sugar over low heat. Avoid boiling, which can prevent the gelatin from setting properly.
  • Soften Gelatin Properly: Let the gelatin sit in cold milk for at least 5 minutes before heating. This step ensures it dissolves evenly.
  • Strain If Needed: For an ultra-smooth panna cotta, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer before chilling.
  • Plan Ahead: Panna cotta needs time to set. Chill for at least 2 hours if serving in the dish, and at least 4 hours or overnight if you plan to unmold it.
  • Use Quality Vanilla: Since vanilla is the main flavor, using a good-quality extract makes a noticeable difference.
 
How To Unmold and Serve Panna Cotta:
Panna cotta can be served straight from the dish or unmolded for a more elegant presentation.
  • Serve as-is: Enjoy it directly from a ramekin, small jar, coffee cup, or wine glass.
  • Unmold for presentation: Lightly coat the inside of the dish with cooking spray before pouring in the mixture. Once set, run a thin knife around the edge. Dip the bottom of the dish in warm (not hot) water for about 5 seconds, then invert onto a plate. If it doesn’t release, repeat the warm water step.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 417kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Cholesterol: 129mg | Sodium: 61mg | Potassium: 148mg | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 1422IU | Calcium: 127mg

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