Silky Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Toasted Almonds

Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Toasted Almonds

Indulge in the luscious flavors of salted caramel panna cotta, a creamy Italian dessert with a delightful twist. This silky treat is complemented by the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds, making it a perfect ending to any meal. Follow this simple recipe to create a gourmet dessert in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 teaspoons powdered gelatin
• 3 tablespoons cold water
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/3 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons honey

Cooking Method

1. Prepare Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over cold water in a small bowl and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.

2. Cook Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. Avoid bringing it to a boil.

3. Incorporate Gelatin: Once the cream mixture is warm, remove it from the heat and add the bloomed gelatin. Stir well until the gelatin completely dissolves.

4. Flavoring: Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. Mix thoroughly.

5. Divide and Cool: Pour the mixture into four ramekins or serving glasses. Let them cool to room temperature before covering and refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or until set.

6. Toast Almonds: While the panna cotta sets, preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and drizzle with honey. Stir regularly until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.

7. Serve: Once the panna cotta is set, drizzle each serving with caramel sauce and top with the toasted almonds before serving.

Nutritious Value and Pairings

Salted caramel panna cotta is a luxurious dessert packed with flavors and textures. While creamy and sweet, its moderate portion size helps keep the calorie count in check. The almonds provide a dose of healthy fats and a bit of protein, while the cream contributes calcium and vitamin D.

To enhance the dining experience, consider pairing this dessert with a light, refreshing side. A mixed berry salad with a touch of mint can complement the richness of the panna cotta, offering a vibrant contrast. For beverages, a chilled glass of Moscato d’Asti or a cup of freshly brewed coffee would pair beautifully, balancing the sweetness and providing a pleasant finish to your meal.

Dive into this delightful dessert, and let the blend of creamy caramel and crunchy almonds tantalize your taste buds, all while enjoying the simple elegance of a well-prepared panna cotta.