Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy with this decadent Panna Cotta with Balsamic Berries. Imagine a silky-smooth, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that combines the rich creaminess of traditional panna cotta with a tantalizing twist of balsamic-marinated berries. This show-stopping dessert is not just a treat – it's an experience that will elevate your home cooking and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons gelatin powder
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup mixed berries
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin powder over cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom, allowing the gelatin to soften and absorb the liquid.
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and sugar over medium heat. Stir gently until sugar completely dissolves and the mixture is smooth, being careful not to let it boil.
- Remove cream mixture from heat and add vanilla extract. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until it completely dissolves and integrates into the cream.
- Carefully pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
- Divide the cream mixture evenly among 4 ramekins or serving glasses. Allow to cool at room temperature for 10 minutes.
- Transfer ramekins to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight until the panna cotta is set and firm.
- For the balsamic berries, mix mixed berries with balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. Let marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.
- To serve, gently run a thin knife around the edge of each panna cotta and invert onto serving plates, or serve directly in the ramekins.
- Top each panna cotta with the balsamic-marinated berries and drizzle any remaining balsamic liquid over the dessert.
Tips
- Gelatin is Key: Make sure to bloom the gelatin properly by sprinkling it over cold water and letting it sit for exactly 5 minutes. This ensures a smooth, perfectly set dessert.
- Low and Slow: When heating the cream and sugar, stir gently and avoid boiling. You want to dissolve the sugar and create a smooth mixture without scorching the cream.
- Strain for Silkiness: Always strain your panna cotta mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any potential lumps, guaranteeing a perfectly smooth texture.
- Chill Patience: Allow at least 4 hours of chilling time. Overnight is even better for the perfect set and flavor development.
- Serving Secrets: For a clean release, run a thin knife around the edge of the ramekin, or serve directly in the glass for a rustic presentation.
- Balsamic Tip: Let the berries marinate in balsamic vinegar for at least 15 minutes to develop a deep, complex flavor that complements the creamy panna cotta.Pro Chef Hack: For an extra luxurious touch, use high-quality balsamic vinegar and fresh, seasonal berries to take this dessert from great to absolutely extraordinary!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 120mg
