Delicious Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta Recipe - Easy Italian Dessert

Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta — a italian recipe (desserts) with 12 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

30

Total Time (min)

10

servings

261

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Delicious Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta Recipe - Easy Italian Dessert

Ingredients

Servings:
10
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
  • 1 packet unflavored gelatin (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup fresh berries (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

6 steps

  1. Bloom the Gelatin

    In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it softens.

    Make sure the water is cold to properly bloom the gelatin.
  2. Heat the Cream Mixture

    In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla bean paste, and salt. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.

    Stir frequently to prevent scorching.
  3. Combine Gelatin and Cream

    Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

    If the gelatin doesn't dissolve completely, return to low heat briefly.
  4. Pour into Molds

    Pour the panna cotta mixture into individual serving molds or cups. Allow to cool to room temperature.

    Use a fine mesh strainer for a smoother texture if desired.
  5. Chill

    Refrigerate the molds for at least 4 hours or until set.

    For best results, chill overnight.
  6. Serve

    Gently unmold the panna cotta onto plates and garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves.

    Run a warm knife around the edges for easier unmolding.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Health: Low Potassium, Kidney-Friendly, Gluten-Free, Wheat-Free, Egg-Free, Peanut-Free. Diet: Low-Sodium

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 5 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 3 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

What to Serve With

Complete your italian meal with these perfect pairings:

A cup of espresso or café au lait
🍦Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side
🍓Fresh berries or seasonal fruit

About This Dish

Delicious Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta Recipe - Easy Italian Dessert is a beloved dish from Italian cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 30 minutes, it's a quick and easy option for any day of the week.

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its emphasis on simple, quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. Each region of Italy has its own distinct culinary traditions, passed down through generations.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 10 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with honey or a sugar substitute, but it may affect the texture.

Rate This Recipe

How was this recipe?

Share This Recipe

Nutrition Facts

10 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories340kcal
Total Fat25gg
Sodium50mgmg
Total Carbohydrates26gg
Dietary Fiber0gg
Total Sugars22gg
Protein4gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineItalian
CategoryDesserts