Name: Silky Chocolate Panna Cotta with Candied Toppings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 4 oz dark chocolate (60–70%), chopped; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) unflavored gelatin; 3 tbsp cold water; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Candied nuts or fruit, for topping; Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe

Chocolate desserts never go out of style, but panna cotta holds a special place in the world of sweets. With its Italian origins, this dessert is known for its silky smooth texture and elegant presentation. The chocolate version elevates it even further — rich, velvety, and deeply indulgent without being heavy. What makes panna cotta so loved is its balance between simplicity and sophistication. You only need a handful of ingredients, yet the result looks and tastes like something from a fine dining restaurant.

This silky chocolate panna cotta is perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or when you want to treat yourself to something luxurious. Candied toppings — whether they’re candied nuts, caramel shards, or even chocolate curls — add texture and visual appeal, turning a simple creamy dessert into a showstopper.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup milk
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tbsp gelatin powder + 2 tbsp cold water
Optional toppings: candied nuts, chocolate curls, caramel shards, or fresh berries

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bloom the gelatin – Sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes spongy.
Prepare the chocolate base – In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cocoa powder. Heat gently over medium heat, whisking until smooth and the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil.
Add the gelatin – Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin. Whisk until completely dissolved.
Strain for smoothness – For the silkiest texture, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps.
Set the panna cotta – Pour the mixture into serving glasses, ramekins, or molds. Let them cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results.
Decorate before serving – Unmold the panna cotta or serve directly in glasses. Garnish with candied toppings, chocolate curls, or fresh fruit.

Flavor Notes & Variations

For a richer taste, you can melt 2 oz of dark chocolate into the cream mixture instead of just cocoa powder. For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with whole milk or almond milk. Add a dash of espresso powder for mocha panna cotta or a hint of orange zest for a chocolate-orange twist.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert pairs beautifully with coffee or dessert wine. Serve it with biscotti on the side for an Italian-inspired finish. If you’re entertaining, prepare it in small glass jars or elegant cocktail glasses to impress your guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this without gelatin?
Yes, you can use agar-agar as a vegetarian substitute. However, panna cotta made with agar will be slightly firmer and less silky.

2. How do I unmold panna cotta without breaking it?
Dip the bottom of the ramekin into warm water for a few seconds, then gently run a knife along the edge to release it.

3. Can I make panna cotta ahead of time?
Absolutely. It can be made 2–3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

4. What can I use instead of cocoa powder?
You can melt high-quality dark or milk chocolate into the cream for a richer and smoother panna cotta.

5. How do I fix a panna cotta that didn’t set?
If it’s too soft, it likely didn’t have enough gelatin or wasn’t chilled long enough. You can reheat it, add more gelatin, and reset it in the fridge.

6. Can I freeze panna cotta?
Freezing is not recommended because it changes the creamy texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge.

7. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream and almond or oat milk as substitutes. Keep in mind this will change the flavor slightly but still be delicious.

8. What toppings go best with chocolate panna cotta?
Candied nuts, fresh raspberries, caramel drizzle, or whipped cream work wonderfully. For an elegant touch, chocolate curls or gold leaf make it extra special.

Conclusion

Silky Chocolate Panna Cotta with Candied Toppings is the ultimate dessert for when you want something elegant yet easy. It combines the richness of chocolate with the creamy smoothness of panna cotta, and the candied toppings add the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. Whether you’re serving it at a romantic dinner, a holiday celebration, or simply indulging in a solo treat, this dessert is guaranteed to impress. Once you see how simple it is to make, you’ll keep this recipe in your repertoire for every special occasion.