Panna cotta with caramel syrup

Panna Cotta with Caramel Sauce: An Elegant and Delicious Dessert

If you are looking for a quick and simple dessert that will truly impress, panna cotta with caramel sauce is the perfect choice. This classic Italian dessert, which means 'cooked cream', has gained popularity worldwide due to its creamy texture and versatility. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a delicious panna cotta with homemade caramel sauce that will transform any meal into a true celebration.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

For Panna Cotta:
- 225 ml liquid cream (extra creamy, preferably with a high-fat content for a richer taste)
- 100 ml milk
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar)
- 10 g gelatin (about 5 sheets or 1 packet of granulated gelatin)
- 1 teaspoon rum essence (for added flavor)

For Caramel Sauce:
- 4-5 tablespoons of sugar (preferably white sugar for a clear caramel)
- 100 ml water (use cold water to avoid sugar crystallization)

Step by Step – Preparing Panna Cotta

1. Preparing the panna cotta base:
Start by adding the liquid cream and milk to a small saucepan. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring gently to combine the two ingredients. It is important not to let the mixture boil. Wait for it to heat well, but without starting to boil.

2. Adding sugar and flavors:
When the mixture is almost at boiling point (about 80°C), add the sugar and rum essence. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. The rum flavor will add a deep and sophisticated taste, but if you prefer, you can replace the rum essence with vanilla essence or even another preferred extract.

3. Hydrating the gelatin:
In a small bowl, hydrate the gelatin in 100 ml of cold water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it absorbs the water and becomes soft. If using granulated gelatin, this step is essential to avoid lumps.

4. Incorporating the gelatin:
Once the gelatin is hydrated, add it to the cream and milk mixture, stirring well to dissolve completely. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture for the panna cotta.

5. Cooling the mixture:
Once the gelatin is fully integrated, let the mixture cool slightly. Then, pour the composition into silicone molds. Silicone molds are ideal for this dessert, as they allow for easy unmolding and look great when served.

6. Final chilling:
Cover the molds with plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but ideally, leave them overnight. This chilling time is crucial for achieving the perfect panna cotta consistency.

Preparing Caramel Sauce

1. Making the caramel:
In a small pot, add the sugar and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly, being careful not to burn the sugar. When the sugar starts to melt and takes on a golden color, carefully add the water and continue stirring. Be cautious, as adding water to melted sugar can cause hot splashes.

2. Finishing the sauce:
Let the syrup boil for a few minutes until it thickens and has a syrup-like consistency. Turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.

Serving

Once the panna cotta has cooled completely and set, carefully remove it from the molds. Place it on a platter or in individual plates. Pour the caramel sauce over the top and, if desired, add some toasted nuts or fresh fruit for a contrast of textures and flavors. Panna cotta with caramel sauce is an elegant dessert that will surely bring a smile to your guests' faces.

Chef's Tip

If you want to experiment, try adding different flavors to the panna cotta. It can be infused with herbs like lavender or rosemary, or even with citrus for a fresh note. The variations are endless, and each attempt will yield a delicious and surprising result.

Nutritional Benefits

Panna cotta is a good source of calcium due to the milk and cream, also having a moderate protein content. However, considering the sugar and fat content, it is advisable to consume it in moderation. A serving of panna cotta has about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used, but it is a dessert that is worth every calorie due to its unique taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace liquid cream with a lighter version?
Yes, but the result will be a less creamy panna cotta. You can use a cream with a lower fat content or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

2. How can I improve the appearance of the panna cotta?
Add toppings such as berries, grated chocolate, or mint leaves for a more attractive look and added flavor.

3. Can I make panna cotta a few days in advance?
Absolutely! Panna cotta keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it an ideal dessert for meal planning.

4. Is it possible to use plant-based gelatin?
Yes, if you want a vegan option, you can use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package to achieve the desired consistency.

Explore this panna cotta recipe with caramel sauce and turn every meal into an unforgettable experience! Whether you enjoy it alone or share it with loved ones, this dessert will surely bring joy and satisfaction. Enjoy!