There’s something undeniably magical about silky, creamy desserts—especially when they’re as elegant and irresistible as this Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe. If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that’s deceptively simple yet feels like a restaurant treat, you’ve found the one. With layers of delicate vanilla custard and a luscious salted caramel sauce, every spoonful promises sweet, salty, and creamy bliss. This is the kind of dessert that makes your dinner guests swoon and leaves everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to build luscious texture and deep, nuanced flavor. Gather these essentials and you’ll be amazed at the magic they create together!
- Heavy Cream: The foundation of that classic panna cotta silkiness; opt for full-fat for best results.
- Whole Milk: Balances the richness of the cream, giving the dessert a light, smooth mouthfeel.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the panna cotta and the caramel sauce, ensuring a perfectly balanced dessert.
- Unflavored Gelatin: The secret to that lovely, delicate set—bloom it before using for a flawless texture.
- Cold Water: Used to bloom the gelatin, helping it dissolve seamlessly into the custard.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes that bring the whole panna cotta to life.
- Unsalted Butter: Swirled into the caramel for that glossy finish and subtle depth.
- Sea Salt: A pinch transforms sweet caramel into a flavor explosion—don’t skip it!
How to Make Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Begin by sprinkling the unflavored gelatin over cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes—this allows the gelatin to soften and “bloom,” which is essential for that perfectly smooth set. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks thick and slightly spongy.
Step 2: Heat the Cream, Milk, and Sugar
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring often until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling. The goal is to infuse the dairy with sweetness while keeping everything silky and lump-free.
Step 3: Dissolve the Gelatin and Add Vanilla
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is glossy and smooth. This is the secret to that dreamy panna cotta texture!
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Carefully pour the custard into ramekins or pretty glasses. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully set and gently wobbles like a soft pillow. This hands-off step is where all the magic happens, so resist the urge to peek too soon.
Step 5: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
While the panna cotta chills, it’s time to make the star of the show: salted caramel sauce. In a clean saucepan, heat the sugar and water over medium heat without stirring. Watch closely as the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color—it happens quickly! Carefully whisk in the heavy cream (it will bubble up), then add the butter and sea salt. Stir until smooth, glossy, and utterly irresistible. Let it cool to room temperature.
Step 6: Top and Serve
Once the panna cotta is set, spoon a generous layer of salted caramel sauce over each serving. Serve chilled and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way. For a truly stunning presentation, sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt on top, add a dollop of softly whipped cream, or scatter over some toasted chopped nuts for crunch. Even a few berries or a chocolate curl can transform each serving into a masterpiece.
Side Dishes
Although this Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe shines on its own, it pairs beautifully with simple shortbread cookies or crisp biscotti. If you’re feeling extra fancy, offer a platter of fresh fruit—like raspberries or sliced pears—for a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy panna cotta.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun! Serve your panna cotta in elegant wine glasses, vintage teacups, or even tiny mason jars. For a dramatic touch, unmold each one onto a small dessert plate and let the caramel sauce cascade down the sides. You can even layer the panna cotta and caramel in clear glasses for a pretty, parfait-style effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Cover each ramekin tightly with plastic wrap and store for up to three days. The texture remains silky and the flavors meld together even more as it chills.
Freezing
While panna cotta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the creamiest results, and add the caramel sauce just before serving.
Reheating
Panna cotta itself shouldn’t be reheated, but you can gently warm the salted caramel sauce if it has thickened in the fridge. Microwave it in 10-second bursts, stirring between each, or warm it in a small saucepan over low heat until pourable.
FAQs
Can I make the Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is a dream for entertaining since you can make both the panna cotta and caramel sauce a day or two in advance. Just keep them chilled until you’re ready to assemble and serve.
What’s the best way to unmold panna cotta?
For a perfect unmold, dip the ramekins briefly in hot water for about 10 seconds, then run a thin knife around the edge. Invert onto a plate and give a gentle shake—the panna cotta should slide right out with a beautiful, glossy finish.
Can I use a different type Dessert
You can swap in half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, but keep in mind the texture may be slightly less rich and creamy. Full-fat dairy gives the most luxurious, classic results for this Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe.
How do I know when the caramel is ready?
Watch for the sugar syrup to turn a deep amber color—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn, as caramel can go from perfect to bitter in an instant. Remove from heat as soon as you reach that gorgeous golden hue.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for anyone with dietary restrictions. Just double-check your ingredients to be sure.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with minimal effort, this Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe is your new secret weapon. Every bite is a balance of creamy, sweet, and salty flavors that will have everyone coming back for more—so don’t be surprised if it disappears fast! Give it a try, and let your kitchen be filled with the joy of truly spectacular dessert making.
Print
Salted Caramel Panna Cotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Salted Caramel Panna Cotta recipe offers a silky, creamy Italian dessert that perfectly balances the richness of a classic panna cotta with the sweet and salty allure of homemade caramel sauce. A make-ahead treat that’s elegant, indulgent, and sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Panna Cotta:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it sit undisturbed for 5–10 minutes to fully bloom and soften.
- Heat the Dairy Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Add Gelatin and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin along with the vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth and the gelatin is fully incorporated.
- Chill the Panna Cotta: Pour the mixture evenly into ramekins or serving glasses. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set to a firm, creamy consistency.
- Prepare Salted Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Without stirring, allow the sugar to melt and turn a deep amber color. Once achieved, carefully whisk in the heavy cream (expect bubbling), then add the unsalted butter and sea salt. Stir until smooth and all ingredients are well combined.
- Cool the Caramel Sauce: Let the caramel sauce cool slightly to thicken and temper before serving.
- Serve: Once the panna cotta is fully set, spoon the salted caramel sauce over each serving. Serve chilled for a perfect contrast of creamy and sweet-salty flavors.
Notes
- Make the caramel sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator; gently reheat before serving to restore silky texture.
- For easy unmolding of the panna cotta, dip ramekins briefly into hot water before inverting onto plates.
- This dessert can be prepared up to a day in advance for convenience.
- Use good quality vanilla extract and sea salt for the best flavor impact.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ramekin
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
