Grapefruit Panna Cotta (Printable)

Silky Italian cream dessert infused with fresh grapefruit for a refreshing citrus finish.

# What You 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 (optional)
10 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for macerating grapefruit segments)

# Steps:

01 - Sprinkle gelatin over grapefruit juice in a small bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until gelatin absorbs liquid and softens.
02 - Combine cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and grapefruit zest in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.
03 - Remove saucepan from heat. Add bloomed gelatin mixture and whisk until completely dissolved.
04 - Pour mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove grapefruit zest, ensuring smooth 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 until firm.
07 - If desired, toss grapefruit segments with 2 tablespoons sugar and let stand for 10 minutes to macerate.
08 - Top each set panna cotta with grapefruit segments and fresh mint leaves just before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The balance between creamy richness and bright grapefruit keeps everyone coming back for seconds
  • You can prepare it entirely in advance and it still tastes freshly made
02 -
  • Gelatin needs acid to bloom properly, which is why the grapefruit juice step is not optional
  • Straining the mixture after adding the gelatin removes any undissolved bits that would ruin the smooth texture
03 -
  • Use room temperature cream to prevent the gelatin from seizing when you combine them
  • A water bath helps unmold them cleanly if you are serving on plates instead of glasses

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