Grapefruit Panna Cotta (Print version)

Silky Italian cream dessert with tangy fresh grapefruit and elegant presentation.

# What you'll need:

→ For the Panna Cotta

01 - 2 cups heavy cream
02 - 1 cup whole milk
03 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - Zest of 1 grapefruit
06 - 2 1/2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
07 - 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice

→ For Garnish

08 - Segments from 1 grapefruit, membrane removed
09 - Fresh mint leaves
10 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

# How to make it:

01 - Sprinkle gelatin over grapefruit juice in a small bowl. Allow to bloom for 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Combine cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and grapefruit zest in a saucepan. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.
03 - Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in bloomed gelatin mixture until completely dissolved.
04 - Pour mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove grapefruit zest for a smooth, silky texture.
05 - Divide panna cotta mixture evenly among 6 ramekins or serving glasses.
06 - Let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set.
07 - Toss grapefruit segments with 2 tablespoons sugar if desired. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate slightly.
08 - Top each chilled panna cotta with macerated grapefruit segments and fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately.

# Expert suggestions:

01 -
  • The balance between rich creaminess and bright citrus feels like sunshine on a spoon
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like something from a professional kitchen
02 -
  • Never let the cream mixture boil or the gelatin will not set properly
  • Straining the mixture after adding the gelatin removes any undissolved bits for a perfectly smooth texture
03 -
  • Rinse your ramekins with cold water before pouring in the mixture to help them release more easily if you plan to unmold
  • Use a vegetable peeler to remove wide strips of zest rather than a microplane, which makes straining much easier

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