Caramel Panna Cotta

Panna Cotta with Caramel Sauce: An Italian Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 2-3 hours
Total time: 2-3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Panna Cotta, a refined and simple recipe, is a classic Italian dessert renowned for its creamy texture and delicate flavor. This Panna Cotta recipe with caramel sauce adds a decadent touch through the sweetness of caramel, transforming a favorite into a true indulgence. Whether served at a festive meal or simply as a little treat during the week, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For Panna Cotta:
- 250 ml heavy cream (ideally with a fat content of 30% or more for a richer texture)
- 100 ml milk (you can use whole milk for a creamier taste)
- 50 g sugar (brown sugar can add a slightly caramelized flavor)
- 3 sheets of gelatin (make sure they are high-quality gelatin for perfect texture)

For Caramel Sauce:
- 100 g milk caramels (soft caramels are best, but you can experiment with different types)
- 50 ml heavy cream (this will help achieve a smooth texture for the sauce)

Preparation of Panna Cotta

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by measuring all the ingredients. Make sure the cream and milk are at room temperature for easier mixing.

2. Heating the mixture: In a medium saucepan, add the milk and sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture begins to boil. It is important not to let it boil too long, as this can affect the final texture of the dessert.

3. Adding the cream: Once the milk and sugar have lightly boiled, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir well to combine the ingredients.

4. Activating the gelatin: In a small bowl, soak the gelatin sheets in cold water for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial, as the gelatin needs to be well-hydrated to dissolve properly.

5. Incorporating the gelatin: After 5 minutes, remove the gelatin from the water and drain it well. Add the gelatin to the cream mixture and whisk until completely dissolved.

6. Pouring into molds: Grease the molds with a little oil to help release the panna cotta easily. Then, pour the mixture into the molds, leaving a little space at the top as it will expand slightly while cooling.

7. Cooling: Let the molds sit at room temperature until cooled, then transfer them to the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until the panna cotta has completely set.

Preparation of Caramel Sauce

1. Heating the cream: In a small saucepan, add the heavy cream and place it over medium heat. Bring it to a boil, but do not let it boil.

2. Melting the caramels: Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the caramels. Stir continuously with a spatula or whisk until the caramels are completely melted and you achieve a smooth sauce. Be careful not to burn yourself, as the sauce will be very hot.

3. Cooling the sauce: Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before using it. It will thicken as it cools.

Serving Panna Cotta

Once the panna cotta has set, carefully invert each mold onto a plate. It is important to do this gently to avoid breaking it. Drizzle the caramel sauce on top and, if desired, you can garnish with toasted nuts or slices of fresh fruit for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This panna cotta with caramel sauce pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or an espresso coffee. You can also serve it alongside a fruit sorbet for a refreshing contrast or a fruit salad, which will add a touch of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits

Panna Cotta is a good source of calcium due to the milk and cream. It also contains healthy fats from the cream, which can contribute to a balanced diet as long as it is consumed in moderation. It is a relatively easy dessert but rich in calories, so it is best enjoyed in moderation.

Possible Variations

To add a personal twist to your recipe, you can experiment with different flavors. Add a few drops of vanilla extract to the panna cotta mixture or infuse the milk with herbs like basil or mint for a surprising note. You can also replace the caramel with a chocolate or berry sauce to create a fruitier version of this classic dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Why does panna cotta set? Gelatin is the key ingredient that helps set the panna cotta. If it is not activated correctly or there is not enough, the dessert will not have the desired consistency.
- Can I use skim milk? While you can use skim milk, the texture will not be as rich and creamy. I recommend using whole milk for the best results.
- How can I store panna cotta? Panna Cotta can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

This Panna Cotta recipe with caramel sauce will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of elegance to your table. So, get ready to impress everyone with this divine dessert and don't forget to enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Bon appétit!