Silky Vanilla Panna Cotta Recipe: A Classic Italian Dessert
If you’re craving a simple yet indulgent dessert, look no further than this Vanilla Panna Cotta. Known for its smooth texture and rich vanilla flavor, this Italian classic makes a beautiful ending to any meal. This easy, no-bake recipe is perfect for beginners yet elegant enough for special occasions.
Vanilla Panna Cotta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream (375 ml)
- 1 cup + 1 tablespoon whole milk (250 ml)
- ½ cup caster or granulated sugar (95 g)
- 4 teaspoons gelatin powder (12 g sachet)
- 3 teaspoons vanilla paste or 1 vanilla bean
Instructions
- Heat the Milk and Cream
In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, watching carefully to avoid overflow. Once it starts to boil, immediately turn off the heat. - Dissolve the Sugar
Add the sugar to the warm mixture, stirring well until completely dissolved. - Incorporate the Gelatin
Sprinkle the gelatin powder into the warm mixture while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved. - Pour into Molds
Carefully pour the mixture into individual molds or ramekins. Allow them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. (A thin skin may form on the surface; if desired, gently remove it with a spoon while the mixture is still liquid.) - Chill and Set
After cooling, place the molds in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
How to Remove Panna Cotta from Molds
- Prepare a bowl of hot water.
- Remove each panna cotta from the fridge and dip the mold into the hot water for a few seconds.
- Invert the panna cotta onto a serving plate, gently removing the mold to reveal a perfectly set dessert.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours, 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Classic Garnishes: Top with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
- For a Twist: Add a splash of liqueur, like amaretto or Grand Marnier, to the cream mixture for added depth.
- Fruit Compote: Serve alongside a homemade fruit compote, such as raspberry or passionfruit, for a tangy balance to the creamy sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This Vanilla Panna Cotta is a beautiful blend of rich creaminess and delicate vanilla flavor. With a smooth texture that melts in your mouth, it’s a dessert worth savoring. Make it ahead for easy entertaining, and let each silky spoonful transport you to an Italian trattoria.

Vanilla Panna Cotta
- Total Time: 4 hours, 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Vanilla Panna Cotta is an exquisite Italian dessert, renowned for its light and creamy texture that melts on the palate. The combination of vanilla bean and cream creates a delightful flavor that’s both elegant and comforting, making it a perfect treat to end any meal. Each spoonful is a smooth experience of subtle vanilla sweetness, enhanced by the delicate texture that panna cotta is famous for.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream (double cream) (375ml)
1 cup + 1 tablespoon whole milk (250ml)
½ cup caster sugar (or granulated sugar) (95g)
4 teaspoons gelatin powder (12g sachet)
3 teaspoons vanilla paste or 1 vanilla bean
Instructions
In a saucepan, combine the milk, cream, and vanilla. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching carefully to prevent it from overflowing. Turn off the heat as soon as it begins to boil.
Add the sugar and stir until fully dissolved.
Sprinkle the gelatin powder into the warm mixture while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps.
Pour the mixture into individual molds or ramekins, then let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Note: A thin skin may form on the panna cotta surface. This can be removed with a spoon while still in liquid form if desired, although it is not necessary.
After 30 minutes, refrigerate the panna cottas for at least 4-6 hours or overnight until set and chilled.
How to Remove Panna Cotta from Molds:
Prepare a bowl of hot water.
Take each panna cotta from the fridge and dip the mold in hot water for a few seconds.
Gently invert the panna cotta onto a serving plate, remove the mold, and serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 220