Strawberry panna cotta is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines creamy richness with the fresh sweetness of strawberries.
Perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, this dessert is light, smooth, and visually appealing. In this guide, we will walk you through a step-by-step recipe to create a soft, silky treat that melts in your mouth and is ideal for any occasion.
What Is Strawberry Panna Cotta?
Panna cotta is a chilled dessert made from milk, cream, sugar, and gelatin. Once set, it has a smooth and delicate texture, somewhere between pudding and jelly, but softer and more refined.
In this version, we add strawberry jam on top. This creates a contrast in both flavor and color. The creamy base feels rich but light, while the strawberry layer adds a slightly tangy freshness. It’s simple, but every spoonful feels satisfying.
Ingredients We Need (6 Servings)
For the base:
- Milk: 500g
- Gelatin powder: 13g
- Sugar: 35g
- Heavy cream: 250g
For the topping:
- Low-sugar strawberry jam: 150g
- Fresh strawberries: 3 pieces
Tools:
- Small saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Strainer
- 6 dessert cups
- Microwave
Step-by-Step Recipe (Detailed and Easy)
Step 1: Soften the gelatin
Take 65g of milk from the total amount and pour it into a bowl. Add 13g gelatin powder and stir gently. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it absorbs the liquid and becomes thick.
Step 2: Heat the milk and sugar
Pour the remaining 435g milk into a small saucepan. Add 35g sugar. Heat on low while stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not let it boil. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Add the cream
Pour 250g heavy cream into the warm milk mixture. Stir slowly until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Melt the gelatin
The gelatin mixture should now look firm. Heat it in the microwave for about 30 seconds until it turns liquid again. Stir to ensure smoothness.
Step 5: Combine mixtures
Pour the melted gelatin into the milk mixture. Stir well for 1–2 minutes to ensure even distribution.
Step 6: Strain for smooth texture
Strain the mixture into another container twice for a finer texture. Pour into dessert cups.
Step 7: Chill and set
Cover the cups and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For best results, leave overnight. The texture will become soft but firm enough to hold its shape.
Step 8: Add topping and decorate
Before serving, add 20–25g strawberry jam on each cup. Slice fresh strawberries and place them on top.
Tips for Better Results
- Always use low heat when warming milk to keep texture smooth.
- Stir gently to avoid bubbles.
- Straining twice makes the dessert more delicate.
- Allow enough chilling time for best consistency.
- Adjust sweetness or fruit topping according to taste.
Let’s Enjoy It Together!
Strawberry panna cotta is a delightful dessert that balances creamy richness with fruity freshness. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create this elegant treat at home. Enjoy it as a special indulgence or a shareable dessert, and feel free to experiment with different fruit toppings to suit your taste.
