Chocolate panna cotta is a luxurious and creamy Italian dessert with a rich chocolate flavor. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner, festive gathering, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 100g dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons gelatin powder (or 1 sheet gelatin)
- 3 tablespoons cold water (for blooming gelatin)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
- Sprinkle the gelatin powder over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes until it blooms and softens.
Step 2: Heat the Milk Mixture
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder.
- Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate.
- Stir until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Incorporate the Gelatin
- Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm mixture and stir until fully dissolved.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Pour and Chill
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to remove any lumps.
- Pour the mixture evenly into ramekins or serving glasses.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or until set.
Step 6: Serve
- To unmold, run a knife around the edge of the panna cotta and dip the ramekin briefly in warm water. Invert onto a plate.
- Alternatively, serve directly in the glass or ramekin.
- Garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, or chocolate shavings as desired.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Panna Cotta
- Gelatin Amount: Adjust the amount slightly for a softer or firmer set, depending on your preference.
- High-Quality Chocolate: Use good-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa) for the best flavor.
- No Overheating: Avoid boiling the milk and cream mixture to prevent curdling.
- Make-Ahead Dessert: Panna cotta can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Sugar: 16g
This indulgent chocolate panna cotta is an elegant yet simple dessert that will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. Enjoy!