Imagine a dessert that combines the rich, velvety smoothness of Italian panna cotta with the irresistible flavors of peppermint and mocha - a true culinary masterpiece that will transport your taste buds to a world of pure indulgence! This Peppermint Mocha Panna Cotta is not just a dessert; it's an experience that promises to elevate your dessert game from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious sweet escape, this recipe is your ticket to dessert perfection.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 tablespoon gelatin
- 1/4 cup coffee
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and sugar over medium heat. Stir gently until sugar completely dissolves and the mixture is smooth, being careful not to let it boil.
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over the coffee and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom, allowing the gelatin to soften and absorb the liquid.
- Remove cream mixture from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved and integrated, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add vanilla extract and peppermint extract to the cream mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a silky smooth texture, removing any potential gelatin clumps.
- Pour the mixture into four individual ramekins or serving glasses, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Refrigerate the panna cotta for at least 2 hours, or until completely set and firm to the touch.
- Before serving, garnish each panna cotta with chocolate shavings for an elegant finish and additional flavor contrast.
- For best presentation, let the panna cotta sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: When heating the cream, keep the temperature gentle to prevent scorching. Stir constantly and remove from heat just as it starts to steam.
- Gelatin Blooming Technique: Ensure your gelatin blooms properly by sprinkling it evenly over the coffee and letting it sit undisturbed for exactly 5 minutes.
- Strain for Silkiness: Always strain your mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to achieve that restaurant-quality, ultra-smooth texture.
- Chill Patience: Allow a full 2 hours of chilling time to ensure your panna cotta sets perfectly - resist the temptation to rush!
- Garnish with Flair: Use high-quality chocolate shavings and consider a light dusting of cocoa powder or a sprig of fresh mint for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
- Room Temperature Serving: Let the panna cotta sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to achieve the perfect, delicate wobble.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Cholesterol: 140mg
