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Perfect Champagne Strawberry Panna Cotta Cups

champagne strawberry panna cotta cups - featured image
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A light, elegant dessert featuring silky panna cotta infused with champagne and topped with fresh macerated strawberries. Perfect for celebrations and easy to prepare ahead.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • ⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 ½ tsp unflavored gelatin (about one packet)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) dry brut champagne
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
  • 1 ½ cups (about 225 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bloom the gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over ⅓ cup (80 ml) of cold whole milk in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it softens and absorbs the liquid fully.
  2. Heat the cream mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, remaining milk (⅔ cup / 160 ml), and granulated sugar. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling (around 170°F / 77°C). You should see steam rising but no bubbles forming.
  3. Add vanilla and gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla bean paste or extract. Add the bloomed gelatin and whisk until it completely dissolves—no lumps or graininess should remain.
  4. Incorporate champagne: Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes, then gently whisk in the champagne. This prevents the bubbles from dissipating too quickly and keeps that delicate fizz in the final panna cotta.
  5. Pour into cups: Divide the mixture evenly into your prepared dessert cups or ramekins (about 4–6 cups depending on size). Let the cups cool to room temperature for 15–20 minutes to avoid condensation in the fridge.
  6. Chill to set: Transfer the cups to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The panna cotta should be firm but still jiggle softly when you gently shake the cup.
  7. Prepare the strawberry topping: While the panna cotta chills, combine sliced strawberries, lemon juice, and powdered sugar in a bowl. Toss gently and let sit for about 30 minutes to macerate, releasing natural juices and developing a bright, fresh flavor.
  8. Serve: Spoon the strawberry mixture on top of each panna cotta cup just before serving. For an extra touch, garnish with a fresh mint leaf or a thin strawberry slice on the rim.

Notes

Bloom gelatin in cold milk before adding to hot cream to avoid lumps. Do not boil cream mixture to preserve flavor. Let mixture cool before adding champagne to keep bubbles. Chill panna cotta overnight for best texture. Substitute agar-agar for vegetarian version and coconut cream/almond milk for dairy-free. Use sparkling apple cider or elderflower soda for non-alcoholic version.

Nutrition

Keywords: panna cotta, champagne dessert, strawberry panna cotta, elegant dessert, easy dessert, make ahead dessert, creamy dessert, celebration dessert

Find it online: https://islatable.com/perfect-champagne-strawberry-panna-cotta-cups-easy-elegant-dessert-recipe/