Silky-smooth Italian panna cotta infused with roasted pistachios, gently sweetened and finished with a honey drizzle and a sprinkle of crunchy nuts. A luxurious, make-ahead dessert that looks elegant and tastes irresistible.
0.75cupunsalted pistachios, shelled and finely groundlightly toasted for deeper flavor
2.5teaspoonunflavored powdered gelatin
3tablespooncold waterfor blooming gelatin
1teaspoonvanilla extract
0.13teaspoonfine sea salt
0.25cupchopped pistachiosfor garnish
2tablespoonhoneyfor drizzling
0.5cupfresh raspberriesoptional garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Bloom the gelatin: Add the cold water to a small bowl and sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top. Let stand until spongy, about 5 minutes.
Heat dairy and nuts: In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, ground pistachios, and salt. Warm over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is steaming. Simmer gently for 5 minutes without boiling.
Blend and strain: Remove from heat and blend briefly with an immersion blender to amplify pistachio flavor. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or the rinsed saucepan, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible.
Add vanilla and gelatin: Stir in the vanilla. Whisk in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Portion: Divide the mixture among 6 small ramekins or dessert glasses. Let cool at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours or overnight.
Unmold (optional): To unmold, dip the ramekin bottoms in warm water for 10 seconds, loosen the edges with a thin knife, and invert onto plates.
Garnish and serve: Top with chopped pistachios, drizzle with honey, and add raspberries. Serve chilled.
Notes
For a softer set, use 2.0 teaspoons gelatin; for a firmer set, use 3.0 teaspoons. Straining thoroughly prevents a gritty texture. You can substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Make up to 2 days in advance.