Creamy and sweet dessert

This classic Italian dessert is silky, smooth, and just the right amount of sweet. The creamy vanilla base pairs perfectly with a tangy strawberry sauce, making it a refreshing treat that melts in your mouth. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time — perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta (Cream Base)

2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, scraped)
2 1/2 teaspoons (1 packet) unflavored gelatin powder
3 tablespoons cold water

For the Strawberry Sauce

2 cups (300 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons water

Instructions

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Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin

Sprinkle the gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl.
Let it sit for 5–7 minutes to bloom (it will thicken into a gel).

Step 2: Make the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, and sugar.
Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves (do not let boil).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add the Gelatin

Stir the bloomed gelatin into the hot cream mixture until completely dissolved.
Strain the mixture through a fine sieve for an extra-smooth texture.

Step 4: Chill the Panna Cotta

Pour into serving glasses, ramekins, or molds.
Refrigerate for 4–6 hours, or overnight, until set.

Step 5: Make the Strawberry Sauce

In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
Cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, until strawberries soften and the sauce thickens.
Blend smooth with a hand blender (or leave chunky if preferred).
Let cool completely.

Step 6: Assemble & Serve

Once panna cotta is set, top with strawberry sauce.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra sliced strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled as a light and creamy dessert.
Can be made a day ahead, perfect for entertaining.
Try different toppings: mango, raspberry, or blueberry sauce all work beautifully.