Panna Cotta
About This Course
Panna Cotta is a classic Italian dessert that translates to “cooked cream.” This silky, creamy custard has a delicate wobble and subtle sweetness, making it a versatile base for countless flavor variations and garnishes. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to create the perfect traditional Panna Cotta—smooth in texture, elegantly molded, and balanced in flavor. We’ll cover the science behind setting agents (gelatin), explore ways to infuse cream with aromatics (vanilla, citrus, coffee, etc.), and walk through plating techniques to elevate presentation.
Learning Objectives
The fundamentals of making a perfectly smooth, classic Vanilla Panna Cotta with no grainy texture.
How to bloom and incorporate gelatin for optimal set and mouthfeel.
Techniques for infusing cream with aromatics (e.g., vanilla beans, citrus zest, coffee grounds) without overcooking.
Troubleshooting common issues (e.g., weeping, over‐firm Panna Cotta, air bubbles).
Recipe adaptations for dietary preferences (e.g., coconut-based Panna Cotta for a dairy-free alternative, agar-agar substitutions for vegetarian).
Creative topping and garnish ideas: fruit coulis, macerated berries, caramel shards, chocolate curls, and edible flowers.
Elegant plating and serving methods (serving in molds, serving “naked” in jars, layering with compotes).
Material Includes
- Step-by-Step Recipe PDF: Detailed instructions from blooming gelatin to unmolding, with annotated photos for each critical step.
- Ingredient Shopping List: Exact measurements, plus notes on selecting high-quality cream, fresh vanilla beans (or alternatives), and gelatin sheets vs. powder.
- Ingredient Substitution Guide: Dairy-free and vegetarian options, including conversion ratios for agar-agar and coconut milk.
- Flavor Infusion Cheat Sheet: A chart outlining infusion times and flavor pairings (e.g., vanilla + lemon zest, coffee + chocolate swirl, lavender + honey).
- Plating Inspiration Gallery: Photographs of plated Panna Cotta variations (classic, fruit-topped, chocolate).
- Troubleshooting FAQ: Common hiccups (e.g., watery sets, too-firm texture) and how to correct them.
Requirements
- Requirements:
- 500 ml heavy cream
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- 6 g (≈2 sheets) gelatin (or 1 tbsp powdered gelatin)
- 60 ml milk (if using powdered gelatin)
- Berries or fruit coulis (for serving, optional)
Target Audience
- Home cooks looking to expand their dessert repertoire with an elegant, make-ahead sweet.
- Dessert enthusiasts eager to master gelatin-based custards.
- Beginner bakers or cooks who want a straightforward recipe with clear, step-by-step guidance.
- Entertainers planning to impress guests with a refined yet deceptively simple dessert.
- Culinary students or budding pastry chefs who need a reliable, classic Panna Cotta formula.
Curriculum
5 Lessons2h 25m