Italian Panna Cotta Recipe (Smooth, Creamy & Elegant)

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s elegant yet effortless, panna cotta is the one to master. This classic Italian dessert is known for its silky, custard-like texture and rich cream flavor — all made with just five simple ingredients.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something special for date night, this homemade panna cotta recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s light, luscious, and perfectly sweet, pairing beautifully with fresh berries, caramel, or chocolate sauce.
Best of all? It takes just minutes to prepare and sets beautifully in the fridge while you get on with your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Italian flavor: Smooth, creamy, and lightly sweetened — just like in your favorite Italian restaurant.
• Simple ingredients: Only 5 basic pantry staples needed — no eggs or special tools!
• Perfect make-ahead dessert: Great for parties, holidays, or romantic dinners.
  Versatile topping options: Delicious with chocolate, caramel, or fresh fruit.

Italian Panna Cotta Recipe

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Category

Dessert

Cuisine

Italian

Servings

6

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Calories

418

This easy panna cotta recipe creates a silky, creamy Italian dessert with just 5 ingredients. Perfect make-ahead treat for dinner parties or special occasions!

Author:

Guiseppe

Ingredients

• ⅓ cup skim milk
• 1 (0.25 oz) envelope unflavored gelatin
• 2 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract

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Directions

1. Pour milk into a small bowl. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top and stir until combined. Set aside to soften for about 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Heat over medium flame until the mixture just begins to boil — watch closely so it doesn’t overflow.
3. Immediately stir the softened gelatin mixture into the hot cream. Stir continuously for about 1 minute, until the gelatin fully dissolves.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour the mixture evenly into 6 ramekins or small dessert cups.
5. Allow to cool uncovered for about 20 minutes. Then cover each ramekin with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, until fully set.
6. To serve, run a thin knife around the edges and invert onto a plate, or serve directly in the ramekins. Top with fresh berries, fruit sauce, or chocolate drizzle.

Recipe Note

Chef Tips

• Avoid boiling too long: Overheating the cream can alter the texture — remove from heat once it reaches a gentle boil.
  
• Flavor variations: Try adding a teaspoon of espresso, citrus zest, or almond extract for a twist.
  
• For extra decadence: Serve with warm chocolate ganache or caramel sauce.
  
• Make ahead: Panna cotta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect prep-ahead dessert.
  

Serving Suggestions

• Top with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries.
  
• Add a drizzle of honey or berry coulis for a fruity finish.
  
• For a rich twist, top with hot fudge or espresso syrup.
  
• Serve with biscotti or shortbread cookies for texture contrast.
  

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store covered panna cotta in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  
• Freezing: Not recommended — the gelatin loses its texture once thawed.
  
• Reheating: None needed — serve chilled straight from the fridge!
  

Nutrition

Nutrition

Serving Size

1serving (1/2 cup)

per serving

Calories

418

Amount/Serving % Daily Value

Carbs

20 grams

7%

Protein

4 grams

8%

Fat

37 grams

48%