Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dessert game! This Italian-inspired Chocolate Panna Cotta with Spiced Pepita Brittle is not just a dessert—it's a sensory experience that combines creamy, silky smoothness with a crunchy, spicy kick. Imagine a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth custard topped with a fiery, caramelized pepita brittle that will make your guests swoon and ask for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a dessert enthusiast looking to impress, this recipe is your ticket to culinary stardom.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons gelatin
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pepitas
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes, allowing the gelatin to soften and absorb the liquid.
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar completely dissolves and mixture is just about to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Remove cream mixture from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved and integrated.
- Add vanilla extract and stir to combine. Pour mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to ensure smooth consistency.
- Divide the mixture evenly among 4 ramekins or serving glasses. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set and firm.
- For the pepita brittle, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a dry skillet, toast pepitas over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar melts and turns amber-colored.
- Quickly stir in toasted pepitas and immediately pour onto prepared baking sheet. Spread thinly and let cool completely until hardened.
- Once panna cotta is set and brittle is cooled, break brittle into small shards or pieces.
- To serve, carefully unmold panna cotta onto plates or leave in serving glasses. Garnish with spiced pepita brittle pieces on top.
Tips
- Gelatin is key: Always bloom gelatin in cold water first to ensure smooth, lump-free setting.
- Temperature matters: Heat cream mixture gently to prevent scorching and maintain a silky texture.
- Strain for perfection: Use a fine-mesh strainer to remove any potential lumps and achieve a flawless consistency.
- Patience is crucial: Allow panna cotta to set completely (4+ hours) for the best texture.
- Watch your caramel: When making brittle, keep a close eye on the sugar to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of dark chocolate to the panna cotta base.
- Make ahead: This dessert can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Store brittle in an airtight container to maintain its crunch until serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 691kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 126mg
