Name: Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ¼ cup whole milk; 2½ teaspoons unflavored gelatin; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ cup granulated white sugar; 1 pinch salt; ½ whole vanilla bean (seeds extracted) or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup strawberries (sliced and divided); 3 tablespoons granulated white sugar; 1 tablespoon water; 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 8 reviews

If you are looking for a dessert that combines elegance, simplicity, and irresistible flavor, this Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe is exactly what you need. The creamy, silky texture of the panna cotta paired with the bright, luscious strawberry sauce makes every spoonful a delight. This recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, using fresh ingredients that come together to create a dessert that feels both comforting and special. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in, this Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two clear glasses each hold a two-layer dessert placed on a dark surface. The bottom layer is smooth and creamy white, filling about two-thirds of the glass. The top layer is a bright red strawberry sauce with visible chunks of strawberries, spreading evenly over the white layer. Each glass is topped with a whole fresh strawberry with green leaves. Around the glasses, several fresh whole strawberries with green leaves lie scattered. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of creamy texture and fresh strawberry flavor in this dessert. Each component plays a vital role, from the rich heavy cream that forms the base, to the gelatin that ensures a delicate set, and of course, the fresh strawberries that add brightness and color.

Whole milk (¼ cup): Helps soften the gelatin and adds slight richness to the panna cotta base.
Unflavored gelatin (2½ teaspoons): Essential for giving the panna cotta its signature creamy but firm texture without overpowering taste.
Heavy cream (2 cups): The star ingredient that creates a velvety creamy body for this dessert.
Granulated white sugar (½ cup + 3 tablespoons): Balances the creaminess with just the right amount of sweetness.
Salt (1 pinch): Enhances the overall flavor, rounding out the sweetness.
Vanilla bean (½ whole, seeds extracted) or vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, fragrant depth that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Strawberries (1 cup, sliced and divided): The fresh fruit brightens the dish with natural tartness and juicy color.
Water (1 tablespoon): Helps create the perfect syrup consistency for the strawberry sauce.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle tang that lifts the strawberries and balances sweetness.

How to Make Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

Begin by sprinkling the unflavored gelatin evenly over the whole milk in a small bowl. Allow it to soak undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This simple step ensures the gelatin softens and dissolves smoothly later on without any lumps, which is crucial for that silky final texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla seeds, and the empty vanilla bean pod for maximum flavor infusion. Slowly bring this mixture to a low boil, keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t scorch, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes. This process helps dissolve the sugar completely and allows the vanilla flavor to permeate every drop.

Step 3: Incorporate Gelatin

Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the gelatin and milk mixture, stirring until the gelatin completely dissolves. This step sets the panna cotta base firmly but delicately. To ensure no gelatin bits remain, strain the liquid through a mesh strainer. You don’t need a very fine one, just enough to catch any undissolved gelatin bits while allowing the lovely vanilla specks to stay.

Step 4: Chill the Panna Cotta

Pour the smooth, creamy mixture into individual serving glasses or molds. Cover them and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. This slow chilling gives the panna cotta time to set and develop its luscious, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 5: Cook the Strawberry Sauce

Meanwhile, prepare the strawberry sauce by combining half of the sliced strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water in a small saucepan. Bring this mix to a slow boil and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This gentle cooking releases the strawberries’ natural juices and helps the flavors to concentrate into a vibrant sauce.

Step 6: Add Fresh Strawberries and Cool

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the remaining fresh strawberries. These keep their shape and add a fresh, juicy texture to the sauce. Let the strawberry mixture cool completely before spooning it over the set panna cotta. After topping, refrigerate again until it’s time to serve, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe

The image shows a clear glass containing a two-layer dessert. The bottom layer is creamy white with a smooth texture, while the top layer is bright red strawberry sauce with visible small strawberry pieces. A whole strawberry with a green leaf is placed on top of the red layer, slightly embedded in it. A woman's hand holds a silver spoon dipped into the glass, scooping some of the strawberry layer. Around the glass, there are several fresh, whole strawberries with green leaves on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an irresistible finishing touch, garnish your Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe with fresh whole strawberries or delicate mint leaves. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a lovely sheen and hint of extra sweetness that makes the dish look as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a crisp, lightly toasted almond biscotti or even a small serving of fresh whipped cream. These sides provide a pleasant contrast in texture and elevate the overall dessert experience, making every bite feel luxurious.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to turn your Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe into a showstopper, serve it in elegant wine glasses or small mason jars. Layer the strawberry sauce between two thin layers of panna cotta for a beautiful striped effect. Another fun idea is to insert a fresh strawberry on the rim of each glass for a charming presentation that invites you to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover panna cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure it is sealed tightly to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. The texture will remain silky, and the strawberry sauce will stay fresh, so you can enjoy a quick dessert anytime.

Freezing

Freezing panna cotta isn’t generally recommended because the delicate texture can become grainy once thawed. However, if you decide to freeze it, place it in airtight containers and freeze for no longer than one month. Thaw gently in the refrigerator before serving, but expect some slight changes in texture.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed cold and doesn’t require reheating. If you prefer a softer texture, simply let the panna cotta sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This softens the edges slightly without compromising the creamy mouthfeel.

FAQs

Can I use powdered gelatin instead of leaf gelatin?

Yes, powdered gelatin is perfectly fine for this Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe. Just make sure to bloom it properly in cold milk as directed, and it will set the panna cotta perfectly.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk, but keep in mind this will change the richness and texture. Using all milk will result in a less creamy panna cotta.

Can I make the strawberry sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The strawberry sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just give it a gentle stir before spooning it over the panna cotta.

Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?

Traditional panna cotta relies on dairy and gelatin, which are not vegan. For a vegan version, consider using coconut milk or almond milk with agar agar as a set agent. The strawberry sauce remains vegan as is.

How do I know when the panna cotta is fully set?

After chilling in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, the panna cotta should be firm to the touch but still slightly jiggly in the center. If it feels too liquid, give it more time to set before serving.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend enough how rewarding it is to make this Strawberry Panna Cotta Recipe at home. It effortlessly combines fresh, simple ingredients to deliver a dessert that tastes like a little bite of heaven. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a quiet night treat, it will impress with its silky texture and vibrant strawberry topping. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the joy of making and sharing a truly delightful dessert.