panna cotta
Panna cotta is a classic Italian dessert made by simmering together cream, sugar, and gelatin, then chilling the mixture until it sets into a smooth, silky custard. The name literally translates to "cooked cream," which perfectly captures the mental image of a rich, velvety treat that wobbles slightly when nudged. It is considered an elegant, sophisticated dessert often found on fine-dining menus. Because it relies on the quality of the cream and the balance of the gelatin, it is frequently served with fruit coulis, chocolate shavings, or caramel to provide a bright contrast to its mild, milky base.
In conversation
Choosing dessert
I am so full, but I can't say no to the panna cotta.
I am so full, but I can't say no to the panna cotta.
It is the perfect light finish to a heavy meal.
It is the perfect light finish to a heavy meal.
Used to describe a dessert that feels light despite being made of cream.
Home cooking
Make sure you don't boil the cream too long, or the texture won't be right.
Make sure you don't boil the cream too long, or the texture won't be right.
Got it, just a gentle simmer before adding the gelatin.
Got it, just a gentle simmer before adding the gelatin.
Panna cotta requires precise temperature control to set correctly.
Examples
I ordered a vanilla panna cotta for dessert.
I ordered a vanilla panna cotta for dessert.
The panna cotta was perfectly set and served with a tart berry coulis.
The panna cotta was perfectly set and served with a tart berry coulis.
The chef's signature panna cotta is infused with lavender and honey for a floral complexity.
The chef's signature panna cotta is infused with lavender and honey for a floral complexity.
