Black Currant Panna Cotta (Printable)

Creamy Italian custard infused with black currant puree and topped with a vibrant berry glaze.

# What You'll Need:

→ Panna Cotta Base

01 - 2 cups heavy cream
02 - 1/2 cup whole milk
03 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
05 - 2 tablespoons cold water
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Black Currant Layer

07 - 1 cup fresh or frozen black currants
08 - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
09 - 2 tablespoons water

→ Black Currant Glaze

10 - 1/3 cup black currant jam or preserves
11 - 1 tablespoon water

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a small bowl, sprinkle powdered gelatin over 2 tablespoons cold water and let stand for 5 minutes until fully hydrated.
02 - In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves completely. Do not allow mixture to boil.
03 - Remove saucepan from heat. Add bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract, then whisk vigorously until gelatin is completely dissolved and incorporated.
04 - In a separate small saucepan, combine black currants, 3 tablespoons sugar, and 2 tablespoons water. Simmer over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until berries burst and mixture thickens slightly.
05 - Pour the cooked black currant mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing firmly with the back of a spoon to extract maximum juice. Discard the solids.
06 - Whisk the strained black currant puree into the warm cream mixture until fully and evenly incorporated.
07 - Pour mixture evenly into 4 lightly greased ramekins or dessert glasses. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours until completely set and firm.
08 - Heat black currant jam and 1 tablespoon water in a small saucepan until melted and smooth. Cool slightly, then spoon a thin layer over each panna cotta before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The contrast between the silky-smooth panna cotta and the tangy black currant creates a perfect balance of flavors.
  • It's an elegant, make-ahead dessert that requires minimal active preparation time.
  • The vibrant purple color makes for a stunning presentation with very little effort.
  • Despite its sophisticated appearance, this recipe is surprisingly simple to execute.
02 -
  • For a more intense color, add a drop of natural purple food coloring to the black currant mixture.
  • The panna cotta can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept covered in the refrigerator.
  • To ensure smooth unmolding, very lightly grease the ramekins with a neutral oil before pouring in the mixture.
  • For the clearest flavor, use fresh black currants when they're in season, typically mid to late summer.
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