Panna cotta with limoncello and berry jelly

Panna Cotta with Limoncello and Berry Jelly

Total preparation time: 4 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 3 hours
Servings: 6

Panna cotta is a classic Italian dessert, known for its creamy and delicate texture. This dish has gained popularity due to its simplicity and the ability to be customized with various flavors and sauces. In this recipe, we will combine the refreshing flavor of limoncello with berry jelly, creating a perfect contrast between creamy and fruity. It’s an ideal dessert to impress guests or to indulge yourself after a long day.

Ingredients

- 500 ml heavy cream (preferably with 30% fat content for a richer texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or a vanilla pod for a more intense flavor)
- 5 tablespoons honey (you can adjust the amount to taste)
- 2 teaspoons Limoncello liqueur
- 6 sheets of neutral gelatin
- 500 g mixed berries (raspberries, currants, and blueberries)
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the gelatin:
Start by soaking the 6 sheets of gelatin in cold water. Make sure to let them sit for about 5-10 minutes until they become soft. This is an essential step to ensure that the gelatin will dissolve evenly later.

2. Dissolve the gelatin:
Once the gelatin has softened, remove it from the water and gently squeeze out the excess. Melt it in a cup with a little warm water (about 50 ml) and stir well until completely dissolved. This step is important to avoid lumps in the panna cotta.

3. Prepare the panna cotta base:
In a non-stick saucepan, add the heavy cream, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix the ingredients well and place the saucepan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, stirring occasionally.

4. Incorporate the gelatin and Limoncello:
Once the cream reaches a boil, add the dissolved gelatin and the Limoncello liqueur. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Limoncello adds a citrusy and fresh flavor, perfect for balancing the sweetness.

5. Cooling and pouring into glasses:
Prepare the serving glasses by placing them slightly tilted in a tray. This will create an elegant presentation for your dessert. Pour the panna cotta mixture into the glasses and let them cool at room temperature. Then, place them in the refrigerator for about 3 hours, or until fully set.

6. Prepare the berry jelly:
While the panna cotta is cooling, you can prepare the berry jelly. Place the mixed berries in a saucepan over low heat, add the 5 tablespoons of sugar, and let them simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. After 5-10 minutes, when the berries have softened, use a blender to turn the mixture into a smooth puree.

7. Incorporate the gelatin into the fruit puree:
Use the same technique as before to dissolve 2 sheets of gelatin (or the amount needed to achieve the desired consistency) in a little warm water. Add the gelatin to the fruit puree and mix well. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring it over the panna cotta.

8. Finalizing the dessert:
Once the panna cotta is well set and the berry jelly has cooled, carefully pour it over the panna cotta, taking care not to mix the two layers. Place the glasses back in the refrigerator for another 30-60 minutes to allow the jelly to set.

9. Serving:
When serving, garnish with fresh berries and a few basil leaves. Not only do they look stunning, but they also add a touch of freshness to the dessert. Panna cotta can be served chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

Helpful Tips

- Choose quality ingredients: Use fresh cream and natural honey for a delicious flavor. The Limoncello should be of good quality to add authentic flavor.
- Vary the fruits: You can experiment with different types of fruits, such as mango, peaches, or strawberries. Each combination will bring a new flavor to your dessert.
- Creative serving: Instead of glasses, you can use silicone molds to create individual desserts or small domes. This will give an elegant appearance and impress your guests.
- Flavors: Add a hint of spice, such as cinnamon or cardamom, to the cream mixture for an extra layer of complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can panna cotta be made without gelatin? While gelatin is the main ingredient for achieving the specific texture, there are plant-based alternatives like agar-agar. Check the proportions, as agar-agar has a different gelling power.
- How can I adjust the sweetness? You can adjust the amount of honey according to your taste. If using very sweet fruits, you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the jelly.
- How long can the dessert be stored? Panna cotta can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is covered to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.

Nutritional Benefits

This panna cotta with limoncello and berry jelly is not only a delicious dessert but also a source of nutrients from the berries, which are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Additionally, the cream provides calcium and healthy fats. However, it is important to enjoy this dessert in moderation, considering its sugar and fat content.

This recipe for panna cotta with limoncello and berry jelly is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any meal. Don’t forget to leave your personal mark on the dessert, perhaps with a secret ingredient or a variation in serving. Try it and enjoy every spoonful!