Panna cotta lives or dies on the dairy, since it is mostly cream, sugar, and vanilla, so use the best you can find. Use just enough gelatin for a trembling, barely-there set, and never boil the cream or you cook off the fresh flavor.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep15 min
Cook5 min
Makes6 servings
CuisineItalian
Cost$$$
Gluten-free
Contains dairy
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for6servings
Cream & milk
Mostly cream with some whole milk; this is the whole dessert.
Can you make Panna Cotta in an air fryer? — Not needed
No cooking needed here — this one comes together without heat, so the air fryer sits it out.
Can you freeze Panna Cotta? — Not ideal
Not really — the cream, custard, or emulsion turns grainy or splits once thawed. This one is best kept fresh in the fridge.
Can you make Panna Cotta ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it needs the chill time to set, so making it ahead is the whole point.
Is Panna Cotta gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Panna Cotta vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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