Zesty Buttermilk Panna Cotta

Indulge in the Creamy Tang: The Ultimate Buttermilk Panna Cotta Recipe with Macerated Strawberries

Discover the truly exquisite taste of the **best buttermilk panna cotta** you’ll ever make! This exceptional dessert boasts an incredibly smooth, creamy texture, perfectly set with just the right amount of gelatin for a delightful mouthfeel. Our easy-to-follow panna cotta recipe features a classic vanilla flavor, elegantly balanced by the subtle tang of buttermilk, mellowed by a hint of brown sugar. Paired with vibrant, macerated strawberries, this Italian classic transforms into a show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion.

buttermilk panna cotta with bite on spoon.

Crafting a buttermilk panna cotta that truly shines is an art form. It requires meticulous attention to detail, from the precise amount of gelatin that ensures a delicate set without being rubbery, to the harmonious balance of ingredients. The goal is to create a dessert that unmolds beautifully yet melts effortlessly in your mouth, leaving a clean and delightful finish. This recipe achieves that by striking the ideal balance of sugar to enhance the buttermilk’s natural tang, not mask it, and incorporating enough cream for a luxurious, rich texture that avoids any greasy aftertaste.

My journey to perfecting this recipe began during my tenure as a pastry chef at a renowned Italian restaurant in Manhattan. There, I had the privilege of refining numerous classic Italian desserts. Alongside this exquisite panna cotta, I developed acclaimed recipes for lemon olive oil cake, torta caprese, delicate frangipane, and the creamy delight of budino (our homemade vanilla pudding). Each dessert was a labor of love, designed to evoke the authentic flavors of Italy with a touch of professional flair.

Table of Contents

  • Why You Will Love this Buttermilk Panna Cotta
  • Professional Tips for Making Panna Cotta
  • Ingredients & Substitutions for Perfect Panna Cotta
  • How to Serve Buttermilk Panna Cotta
  • How to Make Buttermilk Vanilla Panna Cotta
  • Chef Lindsey’s Recipe Tip for Panna Cotta Success
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Panna Cotta
  • Buttermilk Panna Cotta Recipe Card
  • Before You Go: Dive Deeper into Desserts

Why You Will Love This Buttermilk Panna Cotta Recipe

This buttermilk panna cotta isn’t just another dessert recipe; it’s a meticulously crafted experience designed to delight your palate. Here’s why this version will become your new favorite:

  • A Classic Italian Recipe, Masterfully Perfected. Forget dense, overly sweet panna cottas that leave an unpleasant film in your mouth. Through extensive testing, I’ve honed the ideal ratio of gelatin, milk, heavy cream, and buttermilk. The result is a light, ethereal texture that melts beautifully, coupled with a delicate flavor profile that is never cloying. Many recipes rely on excessive sugar to compensate for a lack of flavor, but ours celebrates the natural nuances of its quality ingredients. The balance of richness and lightness is what truly sets this recipe apart.
  • Brown Sugar’s Secret Role in Balancing Buttermilk. Buttermilk’s signature tang is wonderful, but in a panna cotta, you want it to be a refined note, not an overwhelming force. My experiments revealed that a touch of light brown sugar is key. The subtle molasses notes in brown sugar don’t just add sweetness; they beautifully complement and temper the buttermilk’s acidity, creating a deeper, more rounded flavor without making the panna cotta taste like solidified buttermilk. It’s a nuanced sweetness that elevates the entire dish.
  • Served with Irresistible Macerated Berries. While this panna cotta is delicious on its own, it truly shines when paired with fresh fruit. The recipe below includes a simple yet exquisite macerated strawberry topping, which provides a lovely contrast of sweetness and tartness against the creamy panna cotta. This dessert is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with any fresh seasonal berries, cherries, or even a homemade sauce like our easy blueberry sauce. The bright, juicy fruit cuts through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced bite every time.
buttermilk panna cotta with macerated strawberries overhead.

Professional Tips for Making Perfect Panna Cotta

Achieving a truly exceptional panna cotta requires a few pro-level techniques. These tips, refined over years in a professional kitchen, will ensure your dessert is consistently flawless:

  • For Superior Flavor and Texture, Divide the Cream and Don’t Heat Buttermilk. This is a game-changer! Heating all the heavy cream and especially the buttermilk can alter their delicate flavors and textures. Instead, I incorporate a portion of the heavy cream and all of the buttermilk cold at the end of the process. This method prevents the buttermilk from curdling and preserves its fresh, tangy notes, while also ensuring the panna cotta mixture cools quickly for optimal setting and a pristine, creamy consistency.
  • Always Shake Your Buttermilk! Buttermilk naturally separates as it sits, with the fat solids rising to the top. To ensure you get a consistent, smooth pour and accurate measurement, always give the closed container a vigorous shake before opening and measuring. For this specific recipe, I highly recommend using store-bought buttermilk; homemade “buttermilk” made with lemon juice and milk can curdle and alter the texture and flavor significantly in a delicate dessert like panna cotta.
  • Utilize Silicone Molds for Effortless Unmolding (and Freezing!). Silicone molds are a home baker’s best friend for panna cotta. Their flexibility makes unmolding incredibly easy, reducing the risk of damaging your perfectly set dessert. For longer storage or if you prefer an even simpler unmolding process, you can freeze your panna cotta right in the molds. Just remember to allow approximately 2 hours for them to thaw completely in the refrigerator before serving. This makes panna cotta an excellent make-ahead dessert for entertaining.
  • Unmold Just Before Serving for Optimal Presentation. Because this recipe uses a precise, minimal amount of gelatin to achieve the desired delicate texture, panna cottas can lose their perfect shape if left unmolded at room temperature for too long. For the best presentation, remove them from their molds and plate them no more than 30 minutes before you plan to serve. Always store them in the refrigerator until the last possible moment to maintain their integrity and keep them chilled and firm.

Key Ingredients & Smart Substitutions for Buttermilk Panna Cotta

Understanding each ingredient’s role and knowing smart substitutions will empower you to create this delightful dessert with confidence. Here’s a detailed look:

buttermilk panna cotta ingredients marble.
  • Powdered Gelatin: This recipe is designed for unflavored powdered gelatin, which is readily available to most home cooks. However, my original development utilized Silver sheet gelatin, a common professional-grade option. I’ve included precise measurements for both in the recipe card, should you wish to experiment with sheets for an even finer texture. Proper blooming is crucial for both forms to prevent grainy results.
  • Cold Water: Essential for blooming powdered gelatin. The cold water allows the gelatin granules to hydrate evenly without clumping, forming a smooth paste. If using sheet gelatin, you’ll bloom them in ice water and then gently squeeze out the excess before use.
  • Whole Milk: I’ve tested this recipe using whole milk for its rich flavor and ideal fat content. While you can certainly experiment with lower-fat milk or non-dairy alternatives, be aware that the gelatin amount might need slight adjustment, as lower fat content can affect the final set. Start with the given recipe and be open to minor tweaks if your alternative milk is significantly different.
  • Heavy Cream: This is a cornerstone for panna cotta’s signature richness and silky mouthfeel. It provides the luxurious body that distinguishes a truly great panna cotta. Avoid using lighter creams, as they won’t yield the same decadent texture.
  • Low Fat Buttermilk: My preferred choice for this recipe due to its balanced tang and slightly thinner consistency compared to full-fat versions. Full-fat buttermilk is thicker and could potentially impact the final texture of the panna cotta, making it denser. If you’re not a fan of buttermilk, or simply want a different flavor profile, consider our classic vanilla panna cotta recipe instead.
  • Kosher Salt: A small pinch of salt is vital for enhancing all the other flavors, much like in baking. It sharpens the vanilla, balances the sweetness, and highlights the buttermilk’s tang. Don’t skip it!
  • Light Brown Sugar: The secret ingredient for balancing the buttermilk! The subtle molasses notes in light brown sugar provide a depth of flavor and a gentle sweetness that beautifully complements the tanginess. You can use dark brown sugar for a more pronounced molasses flavor, granulated sugar for a cleaner sweetness, or a brown sugar substitute like Truvia. If using a substitute, always taste and adjust sweetness as they can be significantly sweeter than natural sugars.
  • Granulated Sugar: Works in conjunction with brown sugar to achieve the perfect level of sweetness. Unlike some baked goods where sugar is crucial for structure (e.g., vanilla cupcakes or angel food cake), in panna cotta, it’s primarily for flavor. Feel free to use all brown sugar, or your preferred alternative sugar, adjusting to taste.
  • Vanilla Extract: As vanilla is a primary flavor here, invest in a high-quality pure vanilla extract. For an even more intense and visually appealing vanilla presence, consider using a combination of vanilla extract and some vanilla bean paste, perhaps halving the extract quantity to accommodate.
  • Fresh Strawberries: Washed, dried, and sliced. When strawberries are in peak season, their natural sweetness and juiciness are unparalleled. Outside of berry season, you can use thawed frozen blueberries, make a quick easy strawberry jam, or thin out mixed berry jam with a little lemon juice for a simple, delicious berry sauce.
  • Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is added to the strawberries to macerate them. This process not only balances their sweetness but also helps to draw out and intensify their natural flavor, creating a vibrant, syrupy sauce. I employ a similar technique for my individual strawberry shortcakes. The lemon also contributes to a beautiful, naturally formed plating sauce around the panna cotta.

Refer to the comprehensive recipe card below for precise measurements and additional details on these ingredients.

How to Serve Buttermilk Panna Cotta for a Dazzling Dessert

Our vanilla buttermilk panna cotta offers a subtle yet sophisticated flavor profile, making it incredibly versatile. While absolutely delicious on its own, it truly shines when complemented with thoughtful toppings. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this elegant dessert, either individually or in creative combinations:

  • Pair with Any Macerated or Fresh Fruit. The recipe’s macerated strawberries are a perfect starting point, but don’t limit yourself! Feel free to substitute virtually any fruit, such as plums, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, peaches, or cherries. In the colder months, vibrant citrus slices offer a fantastic burst of flavor; consider beautiful *suprêmes* of oranges, blood oranges, grapefruits, or a colorful medley of all three. The key is to choose fruits that offer a bright, fresh counterpoint to the panna cotta’s creaminess.
  • Add a Cooked Fruit Topping. For a different texture and flavor dimension, try serving your panna cotta with chilled cooked fruit preparations. Our apple butter, a comforting apple compote, or a vibrant easy blueberry sauce are all excellent choices. Roasted and chilled peaches or nectarines, perhaps infused with a hint of vanilla or thyme, can also add a delightful seasonal touch.
  • Garnish with a Crunchy Component. Textural contrast is essential for an engaging dessert. A sprinkle of baked streusel topping adds buttery crunch, while pumpkin seed brittle or candied pecans, walnuts, or toasted pistachios offer sophisticated flavor and crunch. For a more rustic, breakfast-for-dessert vibe, top it with homemade honey granola or our pumpkin spice granola for autumnal charm.
  • Enhance with a Drizzle of Sauce. A small dollop of easy lemon curd adds a bright, zesty creaminess. A simple drizzle of honey or our rich salted caramel sauce can elevate the sweetness. The secret is to complement, not overpower, the panna cotta’s delicate flavor. For chocolate lovers, a spoonful of luscious chocolate fudge sauce or glossy chocolate ganache can be a delightful addition. Thinned versions of homemade fruit jams like easy strawberry jam, mixed berry jam, or peach preserves with a squeeze of lemon juice also make fantastic, effortless sauces.
unmolded buttermilk panna cotta with strawberries.

How to Make Buttermilk Vanilla Panna Cotta: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions to create this exquisite Italian dessert. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for a sophisticated dinner party, a romantic Valentine’s Day, or any special birthday celebration. You’ll find more precise measurements and a full ingredient list in the recipe card below.

Mastering the Panna Cotta Base:

Step 1: Prepare Your Molds. Begin by arranging 6 individual molds or ramekins on a rimmed baking sheet. Lightly spray the inside of each mold with a nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step will aid significantly in the unmolding process later on, ensuring your panna cottas release cleanly.

Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin Properly. This is a critical step for a smooth panna cotta.

  • **If using sheet gelatin:** Place individual gelatin sheets into a bowl of ice water. Allow them to soak undisturbed for approximately 5 minutes until they are soft and pliable. Once bloomed, carefully remove the sheets and gently squeeze out any excess water. Place them aside in a small dish, but avoid doing this more than 10 minutes in advance, as they can begin to dry out. Ideally, keep them in the ice water until just before use.
  • **If using powdered gelatin:** In a small, separate bowl, combine the powdered gelatin and cold water. Whisk them together thoroughly until all the gelatin is moistened, forming a thick paste. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow the gelatin granules to fully hydrate or “bloom.”

Step 3: Heat the Cream Mixture. In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine ½ cup of heavy cream, whole milk, kosher salt, and both the granulated and light brown sugars. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. Bring it just to a gentle boil, ensuring all the sugars fully dissolve. This process infuses the dairy with sweetness and prepares it for the gelatin.

Step 4: Incorporate the Bloomed Gelatin. Immediately remove the saucepan containing the hot cream mixture from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin (either the squeezed sheets or the hydrated powdered mixture) directly into the hot liquid. Stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved and no lumps remain. The residual heat will melt the gelatin effortlessly.

bloomed gelatin in bowl.
heating some cream and sugar for panna cotta.
melting bloomed gelatin in hot cream.

Step 5: Combine with Cold Ingredients. In a separate bowl or a blender, combine the remaining cold heavy cream, low-fat buttermilk (remember to shake it well first!), and vanilla extract. Carefully pour the warm gelatin-cream mixture into these cold ingredients. Briefly blend with an immersion blender or a whisk to thoroughly incorporate everything. The cold ingredients will help rapidly cool the entire mixture, which is crucial for preventing the buttermilk from curdling and achieving the silkiest texture. While a whisk works, a blender often yields the smoothest final product.

Ensure your additional cream and buttermilk are very cold. This rapid cooling action is vital. It not only helps to quickly bring down the temperature of the panna cotta mixture for optimal setting but also minimizes the risk of the buttermilk curdling due to heat, preserving its smooth texture and tangy flavor.

Step 6: Chill to Perfection. Divide the panna cotta mixture evenly among your lightly sprayed molds. There’s usually no need to strain the mixture unless you notice any undissolved gelatin or lumps. Cover each mold tightly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and chill them completely in the refrigerator. While 2 hours is often cited as a minimum, for the perfect delicate “melt-in-your-mouth” consistency that isn’t too firm or Jell-O-like, I highly recommend chilling them overnight (12 hours). This extended chill allows the gelatin to fully set to its optimal, delicate point.

Step 7: Unmold with Ease. When you’re ready to serve, place your desired serving plate or bowl upside down over a panna cotta mold. Invert the mold and plate together, then give a gentle shake. The panna cotta should cleanly release onto the plate. For a slightly more professional technique, as practiced in Italian restaurants, briefly run the outside of the mold under warm water (or dip it into a bowl of hot water) for just a few seconds. This loosens the edges. Then, invert it into your hand, and gently place it onto the serving plate. Fluted metal molds often give a more elegant appearance, but ramekins work perfectly well too.

In the professional kitchens where I served various panna cotta creations, our go-to method for flawless unmolding was to briefly warm the outside of the mold under hot water (or a quick dip in a hot water bath). Then, with a confident inversion and gentle shake, the panna cotta would release perfectly into the palm of your hand, ready to be delicately placed on the serving plate.

buttermilk panna cotta mixture in bowl.
portioned unmolded panna cottas.

Preparing the Vibrant Macerated Strawberries:

Step 1: Combine Ingredients. Approximately one hour before you plan to serve, combine the sliced fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice in a medium bowl. Stir everything together gently to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed over the berries.

Step 2: Macerate and Chill. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. During this time, the sugar will draw out the natural juices from the strawberries, creating a luscious, flavorful syrup. While you can prepare these the day before, note that the strawberries will soften considerably over time and might lose some of their visual appeal. They’ll still be wonderfully tasty, but for the freshest look, a shorter maceration is best.

ingredients for macerated strawberries in bowl.
macerated strawberries.

Don’t let any leftover macerated strawberries go to waste! You can easily transform them into a delicious quick strawberry jam. This was a common practice in my pastry chef days – a true testament to my great-grandmother’s wisdom: “Waste not, want not!”

Chef Lindsey’s Recipe Tip for Panna Cotta Success

This versatile panna cotta recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to prepare as large or as small a batch as needed. For ultimate convenience, you can even make the panna cotta base mixture ahead of time. If you find yourself with leftover mixture or wish to make it in stages, simply store the unset base in the refrigerator. When ready to portion for serving, gently melt the panna cotta base. The best way to do this is over a pot of simmering water (a bain-marie), ensuring the bottom of your bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir occasionally until it’s just melted and pourable. Then, portion into your desired molds and allow at least 2 hours to set in the refrigerator, or ideally overnight, depending on how warm the mixture was when it went into the molds. This tip allows for incredible flexibility in your dessert planning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buttermilk Panna Cotta

How do you store buttermilk panna cotta?

Proper storage is key to maintaining the delicate texture and flavor of your buttermilk panna cotta. It should be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When storing, I highly recommend keeping them in their molds, covered tightly with plastic wrap, and only unmolding them immediately before serving. This helps them retain their pristine shape and texture. If frozen, remember to allow at least 2 hours for them to thaw in the fridge after unmolding. In my professional experience, buttermilk panna cottas, due to their unique composition, tend not to keep quite as long as those made purely with milk and cream, so fresh is always best within the recommended timeframe.

Can you freeze panna cotta?

Absolutely! Panna cotta freezes exceptionally well, and surprisingly, frozen panna cottas are often even easier to unmold. To ensure the best results, always make sure your panna cotta is completely refrigerated and chilled firm before attempting to freeze it. Wrap each individual panna cotta (still in its mold) tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply remove the panna cotta from its mold (which should be easy when frozen), place it on your serving plate, and let it thaw in the refrigerator. This process typically takes about 2 hours, resulting in a perfectly delicious dessert ready to enjoy.

Can you remelt panna cotta?

Yes, you can gently remelt panna cotta. This technique is particularly useful if you need to re-pour it into different cups or molds, or if you realize your initial batch wasn’t quite firm enough and you want to incorporate a little more gelatin. To remelt, place the panna cotta (or the entire bowl containing it) in a large bowl set over a pot of simmering water – a classic bain-marie. Crucially, ensure the bottom of the melting bowl does not touch the surface of the simmering water. Stir the panna cotta frequently as it melts over the gentle heat until it is almost fully liquid. Then, remove the bowl from the water bath and allow the residual heat to melt any remaining solid pieces, ensuring a smooth, lump-free mixture. Once remelted, portion it as desired and chill again. If you need to add more gelatin, bloom the additional gelatin as per instructions, then whisk it into the warm, melted panna cotta mixture until fully dissolved before chilling again. If using sheet gelatin for this addition, dissolve the bloomed and squeezed sheets in a tiny amount of hot water or even a spoonful of complementary liqueur (like Grand Marnier for a citrus panna cotta) before incorporating into the melted base for best results.

What is the difference between panna cotta and vanilla pudding?

While both are creamy, delightful desserts, panna cotta and vanilla pudding have fundamental differences in their preparation and ingredients. Vanilla pudding is traditionally a type of stirred custard, meaning it is thickened primarily with eggs, often egg yolks, and sometimes cornstarch. Custards are cooked on the stovetop until thickened by the coagulation of egg proteins. Panna cotta, on the other hand, is not technically a custard because it contains no eggs. Instead, its signature silken texture and set consistency are achieved through the use of gelatin as its sole thickener. This gives panna cotta a unique “cooked cream” texture that is distinct from a traditional egg-based custard.

If you tried this amazing recipe and absolutely loved it, please take a moment to leave a 🌟 star rating and share your experience in the comments below. I genuinely love hearing from you and your feedback truly makes my day!

buttermilk panna cotta with strawberries bite on spoon.

5 from 1 ratings

Buttermilk Panna Cotta

by Chef Lindsey
This buttermilk panna cotta is a true culinary delight, offering a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture. With a perfectly balanced amount of gelatin, it sets beautifully and unmolds with ease. This simple recipe captures the essence of vanilla, enhanced by the subtle tang of buttermilk, which is artfully tamed by a hint of brown sugar. It’s an easy, elegant dessert that promises to impress.
Prep: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
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Ingredients  

For the panna cotta:

  • 4 teaspoons powdered unflavored gelatin or 2 ¾ silver gelatin sheets
  • 6 tablespoons cold water only if using powdered gelatin
  • 1/3 cup whole milk 86g
  • ½ cup heavy cream 130g
  • pinch kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar packed
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup low fat buttermilk 195g, well-shaken
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream 173g, remaining cold

For the macerated strawberries

  • 2 cups strawberries hulled, quartered or sliced
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 lemon zested
  • 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice to taste, freshly squeezed

Instructions 

Prepare the panna cottas:

  • Place 6 molds or ramekins on a rimmed baking sheet. Spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy unmolding.
  • Bloom the gelatin: If using sheet gelatin, place individual sheets into ice water and allow them to soften for 5 minutes. Remove gelatin sheets and gently squeeze out excess water. Set aside, or keep in ice water until needed to prevent drying.
  • If using powdered gelatin: In a small bowl, whisk together the gelatin and cold water. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to fully bloom.
  • In a small pot, combine ½ cup heavy cream, milk, salt, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Bring the mixture just to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure all sugars are dissolved.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and immediately add the bloomed gelatin. Stir well until the gelatin is completely dissolved and no granules or pieces remain.
  • In a separate bowl or blender, combine the remaining cold heavy cream (2/3 cup), buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Pour the warm gelatin mixture into these cold ingredients. Briefly blend with an immersion blender or whisk until fully incorporated. A blender will yield the smoothest texture.
  • Divide the panna cotta mixture evenly among the lightly sprayed molds. Cover each mold tightly with plastic wrap and chill completely in the refrigerator. While 2 hours is a minimum, for the ideal delicate, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that is never rubbery, I strongly recommend chilling overnight (12 hours). This extended chill produces a panna cotta with perfect mouthfeel, much like a silky custard, allowing it to melt beautifully rather than feeling like Jell-O.
  • To unmold, place your chosen serving plate or bowl upside down over the panna cotta mold. Invert both, then give a gentle shake to release the panna cotta onto the plate. For a more refined technique, as practiced in professional Italian restaurants, briefly run the outside of the mold under hot water (or dip it into a bowl of hot water) for a few seconds. Then, invert and gently shake it into your hand, carefully placing it on the plate or bowl for serving. I personally favor the elegant look of fluted metal molds, but simple ramekins work beautifully too.

Macerated strawberries:

  • Approximately an hour before serving, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir gently to distribute the sugar and ensure the strawberries are coated. Taste and adjust the sweetness or lemon juice to your preference.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour. This maceration process draws out the strawberries’ natural juices, creating a delicious syrup. While you can prepare them the day before, keep in mind that the strawberries will soften and may become less visually appealing. They will still taste wonderful, but for peak freshness and appearance, a shorter maceration is ideal.
  • To serve, artfully pile a few macerated strawberries on top of each panna cotta, allowing some to naturally fall to the side. Drizzle some of the flavorful strawberry juices onto the plate to complete the elegant presentation.

Notes

Yield – This recipe generously serves 6.
Presentation – Elevate your panna cotta by serving it with a crunchy component such as baked streusel, toasted nuts (like pistachios or pecans), or homemade granola. Then, lavish it with the vibrant macerated strawberries or any other fresh fruit or berries of your choice.
Flavor Tips – For the best texture and to prevent curdling, ensure that the buttermilk and the additional heavy cream added in Step 5 are thoroughly chilled. This rapid cooling helps the panna cotta mixture set perfectly and preserves the delicate flavor of the buttermilk.
Storage – Buttermilk panna cotta can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Always store them in their molds, covered, and unmold just before serving. If frozen, allow approximately 2 hours to thaw in the refrigerator after unmolding. Please note that buttermilk panna cottas tend to have a slightly shorter shelf life than traditional cream-only versions due to the buttermilk content.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 64mg | Potassium: 191mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 723IU | Vitamin C: 31mg | Calcium: 93mg | Iron: 0.3mg
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
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Before You Go: Dive Deeper into Delicious Desserts

I sincerely hope you enjoyed creating and savoring this professionally developed buttermilk panna cotta recipe. While panna cotta technically doesn’t contain eggs and therefore isn’t classified as a traditional custard, its exquisite texture rivals that of a perfectly silky, set custard, much like our decadent vanilla crème brûlée. If you’re eager to explore more creamy delights, I invite you to peruse all of our enticing custard recipes. Or, for something refreshingly different yet equally elegant, consider trying a creamy lemon posset, which pairs beautifully with an easy cherry sauce. Happy baking and bon appétit!