Valentines Day Strawberry Panna Cotta

Impress your loved one with this Valentines Day Strawberry Panna Cotta. This silky, creamy Italian dessert features vanilla-infused cream topped with a vibrant strawberry sauce, creating a perfect harmony of flavors for a romantic celebration.

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With a preparation time of just 20 minutes, this elegant dessert allows you to spend more time celebrating and less time in the kitchen, while the refrigerator does the hard work of setting the cream to perfection.

Ingredients

• For the Panna Cotta
• 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
• 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp (7 g) powdered gelatin
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• For the Strawberry Sauce
• 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• For Garnish (Optional)
• Fresh strawberries, sliced
• Mint leaves

Instructions

Step 1

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the milk and let it bloom for 5 minutes.

Step 2

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the cream is hot but not boiling.

Step 3

Remove from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved.

Step 4

Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 5

Pour the mixture evenly into 4 serving glasses or ramekins. Let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.

Step 6

For the strawberry sauce, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices.

Step 7

Mash slightly, then let cool. For a smoother sauce, blend until desired consistency.

Step 8

Once the panna cotta has set, spoon the strawberry sauce over each serving.

Step 9

Garnish with fresh strawberries and mint leaves if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure a perfectly smooth result, always bloom the gelatin in cold milk before adding it to the warm cream. Be careful not to let the cream boil, as high heat can weaken the gelatin's ability to set the dessert.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can substitute raspberries or mixed berries for the strawberry sauce for a different flavor profile. For a lighter version of this dessert, you may use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Serviervorschläge

Serve each portion chilled and topped with a sprig of fresh mint. For a truly festive touch, pair this panna cotta with a glass of sparkling rosé to complement the vibrant fruit sauce.

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This Valentines Day Strawberry Panna Cotta is the ultimate way to end a romantic meal with a touch of Italian sophistication and sweetness.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure the panna cotta sets properly?

Bloom gelatin in cold milk before heating cream mixture. Stir gelatin into the warm cream thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm.

→ Can I substitute fresh strawberries with other fruits?

Yes, raspberries or mixed berries work well. Cook the fruit with sugar and lemon juice to create a flavorful sauce.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter version?

Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter texture without compromising the creamy feel.

→ How is the strawberry sauce prepared?

Simmer chopped strawberries with sugar and lemon juice until soft, then mash or blend for desired consistency before cooling.

→ Are there any allergens in this dish?

This dessert contains dairy and gelatin, which may not be suitable for some dietary restrictions.