Indulge in the luxurious and heavenly delight of Chocolate & Vanilla Panna Cotta, a triple-layered dessert that captivates both the eyes and the palate. Panna cotta, known for its simplicity and elegance, requires just a handful of ingredients and a bit of chilling time in the fridge. This dessert promises to impress guests with its rich flavors and stunning presentation.
Ingredients:
Makes 7-8 Cups
Nutella Layer:
- 1/3 Cup Milk
- 2 1/4 Tsp Powdered Gelatin
- 2 Cups Elmlea Double Cream (Heavy Cream)
- 1/3 Cup Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Nutella
Dark Chocolate Layer:
- 2 Cups Elmlea Double Cream (Heavy Cream)
- 100g/3.5oz Dark Chocolate, chopped
- 2 Tbls Honey
- 1/3 Cup Cocoa Powder, sifted
Vanilla Layer:
- 1/3 Cup Milk
- 2 1/4 Tsp Powdered Gelatin
- 2 1/2 Cups Elmlea Double Cream (Heavy Cream)
- 1/3 Cup Sugar
- 1 Tsp Vanilla Essence
Directions:
Chocolate Layer:
- Place 7 dessert glasses at a slant angle in a cupcake muffin tin.
- In a bowl, pour the 1/3 cup of cold milk. Sprinkle gelatin over the milk and let it sit for a few minutes before stirring to combine.
- Heat the cream, Nutella, and sugar in a saucepan, avoiding boiling. Once the sugar dissolves, remove from heat.
- Pour the gelatin into the hot Nutella cream mixture, stirring to dissolve completely.
- Pour the mixture evenly into the inverted glasses and refrigerate until set, approximately 2 hours.
Dark Chocolate Layer:
- In a small saucepan, combine the cream, chopped chocolate, and honey. Stir over medium-low heat until the chocolate melts.
- Add the sifted cocoa powder and stir until smooth. Let the mixture cool completely before pouring over the set Nutella layer.
- Refrigerate for 2 hours or until set.
Vanilla Layer:
- Repeat the process used for the Nutella layer, sprinkling gelatin into 1/3 cup of milk and heating the cream with sugar until well combined.
- Once heated, remove from heat and add vanilla essence. Stir to combine, then pour in the gelatin mixture.
- Allow the mixture to cool before pouring and layering it over the now-firm chocolate layer.
Tips:
- When pouring the second and third layers, avoid pouring directly onto the set panna cotta to prevent disturbance. Drizzle down the side of the glass until it begins to fill up. For the third layer, pour onto the back of a tablespoon to allow it to seep down slowly.
Conclusion:
This Chocolate & Vanilla Panna Cotta recipe promises a delightful journey of flavors and textures. With its smooth Nutella, rich dark chocolate, and fragrant vanilla layers, it’s sure to elevate any occasion. Impress your guests with this elegant dessert that’s as easy to make as it is indulgent to savor.
- Can I substitute gelatin with agar agar for a vegetarian-friendly version?
- Yes, agar agar can be substituted for gelatin in equal amounts. However, follow the instructions on the agar agar packaging as it may require different handling and setting times.
- Can I use different types of chocolate for the dark chocolate layer?
- Absolutely! While the recipe calls for dark chocolate, you can experiment with milk chocolate or even white chocolate for different flavor profiles. Adjust the sweetness accordingly to suit your taste preferences.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? How long will it keep in the refrigerator?
- Yes, you can prepare this dessert ahead of time, which makes it perfect for entertaining. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, for the best texture and taste, it’s recommended to consume it within 1-2 days of preparation.
- Can I use different serving containers besides dessert glasses?
- Absolutely! While dessert glasses create a beautiful presentation, you can use various molds or ramekins to set the layers. Ensure the containers are well-oiled or lined with plastic wrap for easy removal after chilling.