Perfectly Smooth Panna Cotta with Tangerines: Easy Recipe

Ingredients

Panna Cotta Ingredients

400 ml (1.75 cups) heavy cream (30%)
200 ml (0.75 cups) milk
2 tablespoons sugar
50 grams (1.75 ounces) white chocolate
2 teaspoons gelatin
50 ml (0.25 cups) warm water
vanilla extract

Mandarin Sauce Ingredients

6 medium mandarin oranges
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
strawberries for garnish

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Ideal for heating the milk and cream mixture. Ensure it is non-stick to prevent burning.
Whisk
Use a whisk to stir the ingredients evenly and incorporate the gelatin smoothly.
Blender
Blends the mandarins smoothly for a perfectly textured sauce.
Sieve
Strain the mandarin blend to get a smooth sauce, free of pulp.
Glasses or jars
Perfect for serving the panna cotta, allowing it to set beautifully and be presented elegantly.

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare Panna Cotta

Dissolve gelatin in warm water and set aside.

In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, white chocolate, sugar, and vanilla extract.

Heat the mixture, stirring constantly until it starts to boil, then remove from heat.

Stir in the gelatin until fully dissolved.

Allow the mixture to cool completely.

Pour into glasses or jars and refrigerate for about 4 hours until set.

Step 2

Prepare Mandarin Sauce

Peel the mandarins and blend the segments until smooth.

Strain the juice through a sieve into a saucepan, add 2 tablespoons of sugar.

Mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add to the saucepan.

Heat the mixture until it starts to thicken, then remove from heat and let it cool.

Pour the mandarin sauce over the set panna cotta and refrigerate for a couple of hours.

Step 3

Finishing Touches

Garnish the panna cotta with fresh strawberries or nuts if desired.

Servings

Enhance your Panna Cotta serving experience with these delightful ideas:

🎨 Create a colorful display: Arrange the panna cotta in different types of glasses or jars. Add a layer of fresh mint leaves and some edible flowers for a pop of color!

🍓 Fruit pairing: Fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of blueberries not only add vibrant colors but also complement the mandarin sauce marvelously. Try dipping berries in the sauce for extra flavor!

🥂 Special events: Serve alongside champagne or sparkling wine. The bubbly drinks enhance the dessert's luxurious feel, making it ideal for celebrations!

👶 Kid-friendly version: Serve in smaller cups and let the kids top it with their favorite sprinkles or gummy candies. Watch their eyes light up with excitement!

Variations

Gluten-Free Variation: This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check all your ingredient labels to make sure there are no hidden gluten-containing ingredients.

✨ Vegan Variation: Swap out the heavy cream and milk for coconut cream and almond milk. Use agar-agar powder instead of gelatin to ensure the panna cotta sets perfectly.

Faq

Why is my panna cotta not setting?
Ensure you fully dissolve the gelatin in warm water and stir it into the mixture while it's still warm. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Can I use any other fruit instead of mandarins?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute mandarins with other citrus fruits like oranges or even berries for different flavors and colors.
How can I make the panna cotta creamier?
Use full-fat cream and milk to ensure a rich, creamy texture. Don't skimp on the quality of your white chocolate.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, panna cotta is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day before your event and add the mandarin sauce just before serving.
How do I prevent the mandarin sauce from clumping?
Mix the cornstarch with water before adding it to the saucepan. Stir continuously as the sauce heats to ensure a smooth consistency.
What is the best way to serve panna cotta in the summer?
Serve it chilled with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple for a refreshing summer treat. Consider adding a hint of mint for an extra cooling effect!