Panna cotta cake

Panna cotta cake is a sophisticated dessert that combines the creamy texture of panna cotta with the structure of a cake. It’s an elegant choice for special occasions or a luxurious treat. Here's a recipe for a panna cotta cake with a berry topping:

Ingredients

For the Cake Base:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup milk

For the Panna Cotta Layer:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon gelatin powder
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Berry Topping (optional):

  • 1 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Base:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
    • In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
    • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Panna Cotta Layer:

    • In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom.
    • In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream, milk, and sugar over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is just about to simmer. Do not let it boil.
    • Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved.
    • Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
    • Let the mixture cool slightly.
  3. Assemble the Cake:

    • Place the cooled cake base on a serving plate or in a cake ring (if using).
    • Pour the panna cotta mixture over the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
    • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully set.
  4. Prepare the Berry Topping (optional):

    • In a small saucepan, combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice.
    • Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes). Let it cool completely.
  5. Decorate and Serve:

    • Once the panna cotta is set, spoon the berry topping over the top of the cake.
    • Garnish with extra fresh berries or mint leaves if desired.
  6. Enjoy:

    • Slice and serve your elegant panna cotta cake, enjoying the creamy panna cotta layer with the moist cake and flavorful berry topping.

This panna cotta cake combines the rich creaminess of panna cotta with the lightness of a sponge cake, making it a delightful and sophisticated dessert option. Enjoy!