Panna cotta

Panna cotta cake with pineapple and berries: an elegant dessert for special occasions

Who doesn’t love a refined dessert that combines delicacy with intense flavor? Panna cotta, a classic Italian dessert, has won the hearts of many due to its creamy texture and endless customization possibilities. Today, I invite you to explore an enticing panna cotta recipe with me, perfect for celebrating the beloved women in your life, especially on March 8th. This panna cotta cake, with a touch of pineapple and berries, will transform any meal into a celebration of taste!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours (or 30 minutes in the freezer)
Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 250 ml heavy cream
- 50 ml milk
- 70 g sugar
- 1 packet of gelatin (about 10 g)
- 1 vanilla essence
- Food coloring (yellow, optional)
- Decoration:
- Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Fresh pineapple cut into cubes

Useful

- Panna cotta mold (or individual cups)
- Egg carton or support to hold the shape
- Small bowl for hydrating the gelatin

A brief history of panna cotta

Panna cotta, which translates to "cooked cream," originated in northern Italy, where it was initially made from cream, sugar, and gelatin. Over time, it has evolved into various versions, each with its own charm. This delicate dessert quickly captured not only Italy but the entire world, becoming a symbol of culinary refinement.

Step by step: Preparing panna cotta

1. Hydrating the gelatin: Start by placing the gelatin granules in a small bowl and add 2-3 tablespoons of cold milk. Let them swell for 5-10 minutes so that the gelatin activates.

2. Preparing the cream mixture: In a medium saucepan, add the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly. Allow the mixture to come close to boiling point but do not let it boil.

3. Adding vanilla and gelatin: When the sugar has completely dissolved, add the vanilla essence and mix well. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the hydrated gelatin. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved in the warm mixture.

4. Forming the layers: Take the panna cotta mold and place it at an angle in a support (like an egg carton). Carefully pour half of the panna cotta mixture into the mold. Let it cool slightly, then place the mold in the fridge for 1-2 hours, or in the freezer for 30 minutes, until it sets.

5. Adding the coloring: Once the first layer has set, add the yellow food coloring to the remaining panna cotta mixture and mix well. Carefully pour this second layer over the first, ensuring they do not mix. Place back in the fridge for another 1-2 hours.

Decorating the panna cotta cake

Once the panna cotta is completely set, it’s time to decorate! Cut the pineapple into small cubes and place it on top, along with the berries. You can also add a few mint leaves for an even more elegant look.

Practical tip

If you want to add an extra flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon juice to the panna cotta mixture. This will add a tangy note that balances the sweetness of the dessert.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace gelatin with another thickening agent?
Yes, you can use agar-agar, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package to achieve a similar consistency.

2. Is panna cotta suitable for vegans?
Traditional panna cotta contains dairy products, but you can make a vegan version using coconut milk or other plant-based alternatives and plant-based gelatin.

3. What other fruits can I use for decoration?
Besides pineapple and berries, you can try kiwi, mango, or peaches, depending on the season and your preferences.

Possible variations

- Chocolate panna cotta: Add 100 g of melted dark chocolate to the cream mixture to create a decadent and rich version.
- Coffee panna cotta: Replace part of the milk with strong coffee and add a bit of cocoa for a coffee-flavored dessert.
- Citrus panna cotta: Use grated lemon or orange zest in the cream mixture for an extra fresh touch.

Serving combinations

This panna cotta cake pairs perfectly with a sweet white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail. Additionally, a cup of espresso coffee can add a perfect finishing touch for a successful meal conclusion.

Conclusion

Panna cotta is more than just a dessert; it’s a culinary experience that blends elegance and flavor. So, prepare this simple yet impressive recipe to bring joy to the lives of your loved ones. Don’t forget to share your delicious moments and celebrate with refinement!

Have a beautiful day full of smiles, especially on March 8th! This recipe is not just a dessert but also a declaration of love and appreciation for all the special women around you!