Easy Vanilla Panna Cotta Recipe for Summer
Introduction
Panna Cotta, meaning “cooked cream” in Italian, is a beloved summer dessert that’s light, silky, and surprisingly easy to make. With its delicate texture and endless topping possibilities—from berries to caramel—it’s no wonder this chilled Italian classic is one of the most requested recipes on our site during warm months.
The traditional panna cotta uses cream, sugar, and gelatin, but you can easily adapt it for various dietary needs, making it an inclusive dessert for health-conscious guests, kids, or even those with food restrictions.
Special Diet Modifications:
Diabetics: Use erythritol or stevia instead of sugar.
Heart Patients: Use low-fat milk and avoid heavy cream.
Athletes: Serve with high-protein toppings like Greek yogurt and nuts.
Kids: Add fruit puree and reduce added sugar.
Seniors: Use well-strained cream with a soft consistency and mild flavor.
Health Benefits
Naturally gluten-free
Refreshing and hydrating
Can be made low-calorie
Customizable with fresh fruits and nuts
Possible Drawbacks
Traditional version is high in fat and sugar
Not suitable for vegans unless modified
Some people may be sensitive to gelatin
Ingredients For 4 Serves
heavy cream (or half & half if you prefer a lighter version) | 2 cups |
Whole milk | 1 cup |
Sugar | 1/3 cup |
Gelatin powder | 2 ½ tsp |
Cold water (for blooming) | 3 tbsp |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Fresh berries (for topping) | 1 cup |
Mint leaves (optional) | few sprigs |
cook time
Preparation time | 10 minutes |
Chill time | 4 hours |
Total Time | 4 hours 10 minutes |
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Calories | 220 calories |
Fat | 16 grams |
Protein | 3 grams |
Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
Fiber | 3 grams |
Let's get started
Step 1
Bloom the gelatin:
Sprinkle the gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to bloom.
Heat cream and milk:
In a saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Warm over medium heat until sugar dissolves completely (do not boil).
Add gelatin:
Remove the mixture from heat, stir in bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 2
Pour and chill:
Pour into glass cups or molds. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Garnish and serve:
Top with fresh berries and mint just before serving.
Additional Tips:
- For a vegan version, use almond milk and agar-agar instead of gelatin.
-Use silicone molds for easy unmolding.
-Drizzle with passionfruit syrup or mango puree for a tropical twist.
-For a firmer set, reduce milk slightly and add more cream.
Personal Experience:
I’ve tested this recipe during multiple summer events, and the vanilla panna cotta always disappears first. My favorite combo is with raspberry coulis and crushed pistachios on top—it gives the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Your Turn:
What topping do you love most on your panna cotta—berries, caramel, or chocolate?
Have you ever tried making it with coconut milk or other flavors like coffee or matcha?
