Italian Panna Cotta with Strawberry Sauce is a timeless dessert that celebrates simplicity, elegance, and pure flavor. Originating from northern Italy, panna cotta literally means “cooked cream,” and that’s exactly what makes this dessert so special—rich cream gently set into a silky, melt-in-your-mouth custard. Paired with a vibrant strawberry sauce, it creates a perfect balance of creamy indulgence and fresh, fruity brightness.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s effortlessly elegant. With just a handful of ingredients, you get a dessert that looks sophisticated and tastes incredible. The contrast between the smooth, creamy panna cotta and the slightly tangy strawberry sauce is absolutely irresistible.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Classic Italian dessert with refined flavor
• Silky, melt-in-the-mouth texture
• Easy to make ahead for entertaining
• Requires simple pantry ingredients
• Beautiful presentation with minimal effort

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: ~4 hours 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~360 calories per serving
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta

• 2 cups heavy cream
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
• 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
• 3 tablespoons cold water

For the Strawberry Sauce

• 1½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Cooking Directions

1. Bloom gelatin in cold water and set aside.
2. Heat cream and sugar gently until sugar dissolves.
3. Stir in vanilla and bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
4. Pour mixture into molds or glasses.
5. Chill until set, about 4 hours.
6. Cook strawberries with sugar and lemon until saucy.
7. Cool sauce and serve over panna cotta.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Bloom the gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Heat the cream: Warm cream and sugar over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves—do not boil.
3. Add gelatin: Remove from heat and stir in gelatin until completely dissolved.
4. Flavor: Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Set: Pour into ramekins or glasses and refrigerate until firm.
6. Make sauce: Simmer strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice until thick and glossy.
7. Serve: Spoon cooled strawberry sauce over panna cotta before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled with strawberry sauce spooned on top.
• Garnish with fresh strawberries or mint leaves.
• Unmold onto plates for an elegant presentation.
• Pair with espresso or dessert wine.

Recipe Tips

• Do not boil cream—boiling affects texture.
• Use good-quality vanilla for best flavor.
• Lightly oil molds for easy unmolding.
• Chill overnight for best texture.
• Adjust sweetness of sauce based on strawberry ripeness.

Variations

Berry Variations

• Use raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries.

Chocolate Panna Cotta

• Add melted dark chocolate to cream mixture.

Citrus Twist

• Infuse cream with lemon or orange zest.

Dairy-Free Option

• Use coconut cream and agar-agar instead of gelatin.

Coffee Panna Cotta

• Add espresso powder for a coffee-flavored version.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store panna cotta covered for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as texture may become grainy.
• Sauce Storage: Strawberry sauce keeps up to 5 days refrigerated.

Special Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ramekins or dessert glasses

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make panna cotta ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for make-ahead desserts—prepare up to 2 days in advance.

Q: Why didn’t my panna cotta set?
The gelatin may not have fully dissolved or the ratio may be off.

Q: Can I reduce the cream?
Yes, replace part of the cream with milk for a lighter version.

Q: Can I unmold panna cotta easily?
Dip the mold briefly in warm water and invert onto a plate.

Conclusion

Italian Panna Cotta with Strawberry Sauce is a dessert that proves simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Silky, creamy, and beautifully balanced with fresh strawberry sauce, it’s a dessert that feels luxurious without being complicated. Perfect for entertaining or treating yourself, this classic Italian favorite will always leave a lasting impression.