This Cream Cheese Panna Cotta is a luxurious, creamy dessert that blends the tanginess of cream cheese with the velvety texture of panna cotta. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 gelatin sheets (or 1 tsp powdered gelatin)
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin:
Start by soaking the gelatin sheets in cold water for 5-10 minutes. If using powdered gelatin, sprinkle it over a small bowl of cold water and let it sit until bloomed. - Heat the Cream:
Pour the heavy cream into a small saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat until it’s hot but not boiling. Remove from heat. - Blend Cream Cheese and Cream:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the warm heavy cream. Use an immersion blender or whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. - Add Gelatin and Salt:
Squeeze out any excess water from the gelatin sheets and stir them into the warm cream mixture. If using powdered gelatin, simply stir it in. Add a pinch of sea salt and mix thoroughly. - Strain for Silky Smoothness:
To ensure a perfectly smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pouring jug or bowl. - Pour into Molds:
Divide the mixture evenly into silicone molds, ramekins, or small dessert glasses. - Chill:
Refrigerate the panna cotta for at least 4 hours, or until set. - Unmold and Serve:
To unmold, dip the bottom of each mold briefly in warm water, then invert onto a serving plate. Serve as is or garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt for a minimalist carnivore touch.
Pro Tips
- Smoothness Matters: Straining the mixture ensures a silky, lump-free texture, so don’t skip this step.
- Mold Choice: Silicone molds work best for easy unmolding. Alternatively, serve the panna cotta directly in dessert glasses.
- Unmolding Made Easy: Briefly dipping the molds in warm water helps release the panna cotta without damaging its shape.
- Variations: If you’re not strictly carnivore, you can enhance the flavor with a splash of vanilla extract or a few drops of lemon juice for added brightness.
This simple yet elegant dessert is a carnivore-friendly way to enjoy a decadent treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Let me know if you’d like an accompanying visual or additional flavor suggestions!
