With its smooth, creamy texture and deep cocoa richness, Chocolate Panna Cotta is the kind of dessert that feels luxurious yet comes together with surprising ease. It’s a perfect example of how Italian cooking turns simple ingredients into something quietly extraordinary.
Elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough for a cozy night in, this panna cotta melts in your mouth and leaves behind a whisper of sweet chocolate. If you love rich, creamy desserts, you might also enjoy our Black and White Cheesecake, another stunning, indulgent treat that’s easier than it looks.
Made with just a handful of ingredients, this Italian classic proves that sometimes, the simplest things truly are the most memorable. And for another melt-in-your-mouth favorite with a fruitier twist, don’t miss our Peach Ana Dessert.
✅ Quick Recipe Snapshot
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups heavy cream (480ml)
- ½ cup whole milk (120ml)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (113g)
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin (about 2¼ teaspoons)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (30ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
👩🍳 How to Make Chocolate Panna Cotta
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
- In a saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the chopped chocolate until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract, mixing until fully dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into ramekins or serving glasses.
- Chill for at least 4 hours, or until completely set.
- Serve chilled, optionally garnished with whipped cream, berries, or chocolate shavings.
📌 Handy Tips for Success
- Let the gelatin bloom fully before adding it to the hot mixture.
- Don’t let the cream boil — just heat until steaming.
- Lightly oil ramekins if you want to unmold the panna cotta later.
🔄 Fun Variations to Try
- Flavor the cream with a splash of coffee liqueur for mocha panna cotta.
- Top with salted caramel sauce for an extra decadent finish.
- Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a different twist.
🥄 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
🌍 The Sweet Simplicity of Panna Cotta
Panna cotta, meaning “cooked cream,” originated in Italy’s Piedmont region, where rich dairy and simple desserts have long been prized.
Originally thickened with fish bones, modern panna cotta relies on gelatin — making it silky, stable, and endlessly adaptable to new flavors like chocolate.
🍽️ Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Panna Cotta
Serve directly in elegant glasses or unmold onto dessert plates.
Pair with fresh raspberries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of fruit coulis for an extra special presentation.
❓ FAQs About Chocolate Panna Cotta
Can I make it ahead?
Yes — Chocolate Panna Cotta is perfect to make 1–2 days in advance.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can use part milk for a lighter panna cotta, but cream gives the silkiest texture.
Can I freeze panna cotta?
It’s best enjoyed fresh — freezing changes the silky texture.
✨ Final Thoughts
With its silky texture and rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor, Chocolate Panna Cotta is a timeless dessert that’s as effortless as it is elegant.
The perfect sweet note for any occasion.
