Strawberry Panna Cotta: Creamy Italian Dessert You’ll Fall in Love With

Strawberry panna cotta is a creamy Italian dessert made by gently simmering cream with sugar and gelatin, then chilling it until set. This no bake strawberry dessert layers velvety vanilla panna cotta with a vibrant strawberry coulis, creating an elegant yet easy panna cotta recipe you can master at home. Whether you’re using traditional gelatin panna cotta methods or exploring dairy free panna cotta or agar agar panna cotta alternatives, the result is always a silky-smooth, set dessert served in cups or unmolded for a dramatic presentation.

How to Make: This layered strawberry panna cotta blends a classic panna cotta base with a sweet-tart strawberry topping. You’ll need heavy cream, sugar, gelatin (or agar agar), fresh berries, and vanilla to create a show-stopping treat that’s naturally gluten-free and endlessly adaptable.

If you enjoy fruit-forward desserts, try our Easy Healthy Homemade Pinkberry Frozen Yogurt Recipe for another make-ahead favorite.

How to Make Strawberry Panna Cotta At Home

If you’re dreaming of a creamy Italian dessert that feels indulgent yet light, strawberry panna cotta is the answer. This elegant set dessert combines a smooth vanilla panna cotta base with a glossy layer of strawberry coulis. While it looks impressive, it’s a surprisingly easy panna cotta recipe to prepare, no baking required.

Before diving into the full recipe, let’s walk through what makes this treat so beloved. From the layered strawberry panna cotta presentation to the endless variations like agar agar panna cotta or dairy free panna cotta, this dessert offers flexibility with flavor and form. Whether you’re serving it in set dessert cups or unmolded on a plate with fresh berries, it’s a simple way to bring a bit of Italian charm to your kitchen.

In the next section, you’ll find the complete step-by-step strawberry panna cotta recipe card, including ingredient breakdowns, detailed instructions, and stunning visuals for each step to guide your process.

Strawberry Panna Cotta: Creamy Italian Dessert You’ll Fall in Love With

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A lush and silky strawberry panna cotta that layers a smooth vanilla panna cotta base with a vibrant strawberry coulis. Perfect as a creamy Italian dessert or no bake strawberry dessert, this easy panna cotta recipe is adaptable for gelatin panna cotta or agar agar panna cotta, and even a dairy free panna cotta version. You’ll impress with set dessert cups or a dramatic unmolded presentation of layered strawberry panna cotta.

• Author: Marla Jennings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 4 h 20 min
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No Bake
• Cuisine: Italian‑inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 vanilla bean (split) or 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2½ teaspoons powdered gelatin (or substitute agar agar per manufacturer’s instructions)

• 3 tbsp cold water (for gelatin bloom)

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

• 2 tbsp sugar (for coulis)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Fresh strawberries and mint leaves for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the gelatin base
   In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.

2. Heat the cream mixture
   In a saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla. Heat gently over medium-low until the sugar dissolves and steam rises, do not boil.

3. Add the gelatin
   Remove the cream mixture from heat, then stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved and smooth.

4. Pour and chill
   Pour the mixture evenly into serving cups or molds. Let them cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.

5. Make the strawberry coulis
   While the panna cotta sets, blend strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice into a smooth sauce. Strain to remove seeds if desired.

6. Top with coulis
   Once the panna cotta is firm, spoon a layer of strawberry coulis on top of each dessert. Return to the fridge for 30 minutes to chill again.

7. Garnish and serve
   Before serving, garnish with fresh sliced strawberries and mint. Optionally unmold onto plates for a dramatic layered look.

Notes

• If you prefer a dairy free panna cotta, replace heavy cream and milk with full‑fat coconut milk and almond milk, and use agar agar instead of gelatin.
• For an agar agar panna cotta version: follow the instructions on the agar packaging (typically ~1 tsp agar powder for 2 cups liquid) for a firm set.
• Avoid overheating the mixture (> 85 °C) to prevent splitting – see the troubleshooting section below.
• For unmolding, dip cup bottoms in warm water for 5 secs then invert onto plate.
• Store covered in refrigerator for up to 2 days; strawberry coulis is best added just before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 400 kcal
• Sugar: 40 g
• Sodium: 80 mg
• Fat: 19 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 47 g
• Fiber: 1.6 g
• Protein: 6.3 g
• Cholesterol: 64 mg

Ingredients You’ll Need for Strawberry Panna Cotta

This easy panna cotta recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, but each one plays a vital role in achieving that signature creamy texture and elegant layered look. Whether you’re going for a classic panna cotta or experimenting with a dairy free panna cotta or agar agar panna cotta, here’s what you’ll need:

Cream, Milk & Vanilla: The Creamy Italian Dessert Base

The base of a traditional or classic panna cotta starts with heavy cream and whole milk. Together, they deliver a rich but silky texture that defines this creamy Italian dessert. A touch of vanilla bean or pure vanilla extract brings warmth and depth to the flavor.

For a vanilla panna cotta with berries, the vanilla should shine without overpowering the fruit. This combination allows the strawberry coulis to contrast beautifully with the creamy base, especially when served in set dessert cups or unmolded as a showstopper.

Strawberries & Sugar: The Strawberry Coulis Panna Cotta Layer

Fresh, ripe strawberries create a naturally sweet and slightly tart coulis, or fruit sauce, which becomes the second layer in a layered strawberry panna cotta. A small amount of granulated sugar enhances the flavor, while lemon juice balances the sweetness and adds brightness.

The coulis sits neatly on top of the chilled panna cotta layer, giving a striking color contrast and bold flavor.

Gelatin Panna Cotta vs Agar Agar Panna Cotta

To transform your liquid base into a set dessert, you need a gelling agent:

• Gelatin panna cotta uses powdered gelatin. It’s flavorless and dissolves completely when bloomed and warmed. This gives the dessert its characteristic jiggle and smooth set.
• Agar agar panna cotta is a plant-based alternative made from seaweed, perfect for vegetarians or anyone avoiding gelatin. Agar sets firmer and faster than gelatin and must be boiled to activate.

Choose the one that suits your dietary preferences and serving goals.

Making It Dairy-Free: Dairy Free Panna Cotta Option

Want a lighter or lactose-free version? Swap the dairy for full-fat coconut milk and almond milk. The result is a dairy free panna cotta that still holds its shape beautifully when paired with the same strawberry topping.

Be sure to choose a complementary gelling agent, agar agar is the best match for dairy free bases, since it works reliably with plant milks.

Serving Ideas: Set Dessert Cups or Unmolded

You can serve strawberry panna cotta in small glass jars, ramekins, or silicone molds. Set dessert cups offer ease and elegance, while unmolding onto a plate shows off the layered strawberry panna cotta in all its glory. Just be sure to chill long enough for a clean release.

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Step-by-Step Strawberry Panna Cotta Process with Tips and Troubleshooting

Creating a layered strawberry panna cotta may look complex, but it’s actually an easy panna cotta recipe when broken down into clear steps. From blooming gelatin to pouring perfect layers in set dessert cups, here’s how to master the process.

Preparing the Panna Cotta Base (Classic Panna Cotta with Vanilla)

Start by blooming the gelatin in cold water. This critical step ensures it dissolves smoothly into the heated cream mixture. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract or a vanilla bean. Heat gently until the sugar is dissolved, do not let it boil.

Once warm, remove from heat and stir in the softened gelatin. Make sure the mixture is completely smooth before pouring. This base is the signature element of a classic panna cotta, offering a rich, creamy bite with soft wobble.

Troubleshooting Tip:
If your panna cotta splits into layers or has a gritty texture, it may have been overheated. Always warm gently and avoid boiling the dairy.

Making the Strawberry Coulis and Layering

While the panna cotta layer sets, prepare the strawberry coulis. Simmer fresh strawberries with sugar and lemon juice until the fruit softens, then blend until smooth. Strain if you prefer a seedless finish. Chill the coulis slightly so it doesn’t melt the set base.

Once the panna cotta is firm, gently spoon the coulis on top to create the layered strawberry panna cotta. Return to the fridge to set again.

Tip: To maintain distinct layers, ensure the panna cotta is fully set before adding the strawberry topping.

Setting Time and Unmolding for Presentation

Allow at least 4 hours of chill time for a proper set. For best results, refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, either present the set dessert cups directly or unmold by dipping each mold’s base briefly in warm water and inverting onto a plate.

This results in a stunning dome of vanilla panna cotta with berries, topped with jewel-toned strawberry coulis and fresh garnish.

How to Unmold Panna Cotta Cleanly:

• Run a thin knife around the edge (if needed)
• Dip the mold’s bottom into warm water for 5 seconds
• Invert onto a chilled serving plate and lift carefully

Variations: Dairy Free Panna Cotta, Agar Agar Panna Cotta, No Gelatin Version

To make a dairy free panna cotta, substitute full-fat coconut milk and almond milk in place of cream and whole milk. For structure, swap gelatin for agar agar following the brand’s instructions (typically about 1 teaspoon agar powder per 2 cups of liquid).

If you avoid animal products, agar is the perfect choice. It creates a firmer texture that holds up well for both molded and cup-set presentations.

Can You Make Panna Cotta Without Gelatin?
Yes, agar agar panna cotta is a reliable and vegetarian-friendly option. You’ll need to boil it briefly with the liquid base to activate its setting properties.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Strawberry panna cotta is the kind of creamy Italian dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re preparing it for a dinner party or a cozy evening treat, these tips will help you serve and store it for maximum impact and flavor.

Best Way to Serve Strawberry Panna Cotta

This easy panna cotta recipe shines in individual portions. Set dessert cups offer a mess-free, elegant way to serve, especially if you’re layering the strawberry coulis. Clear glass cups show off the contrast between the creamy vanilla base and the vibrant fruit topping.

To serve, top each cup with fresh strawberries, mint leaves, or even edible flowers. A drizzle of extra coulis adds shine and sweetness.

For a more formal presentation, unmold your layered strawberry panna cotta onto dessert plates. This reveals the clean lines between layers and allows room for artistic plating , perfect for holidays or celebrations.

Ideal Storage Conditions and Shelf Life

Panna cotta should always be stored in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain its smooth texture and keep flavors fresh. It will stay firm and flavorful for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours for peak taste and texture.

Avoid freezing, as it will alter the texture and cause water separation once thawed.

If you’ve made dairy free panna cotta or agar agar panna cotta, the same storage rules apply. Just note that agar-based desserts may weep slightly over time, so serve within a day if possible.

Make-Ahead Ideas for Entertaining

This no bake strawberry dessert is ideal for planning ahead. You can prepare the vanilla panna cotta base a day in advance, let it set overnight, and add the strawberry coulis panna cotta layer the next morning.

For larger gatherings, use small shooter glasses or mini jars to create set dessert cups that are easy to serve and share. You can also make a large batch and serve in a trifle-style dish for scooping.

Why This Recipe Works & Why You’ll Love It

Strawberry panna cotta has earned its place as a beloved creamy Italian dessert, and this version hits every mark. From its velvety base to its glossy berry topping, here’s what makes it stand out and why it’s a must-try in your dessert rotation.

Texture Contrast: Creamy Base and Bright Coulis

The charm of a layered strawberry panna cotta lies in its contrasting textures. The silky panna cotta base, infused with vanilla, melts on your tongue. Paired with a smooth, slightly tart strawberry coulis, every bite delivers rich creaminess followed by a bright, fruity finish.

This contrast makes it a perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing, all without needing an oven.

Balance of Flavors: Vanilla, Strawberry, Sugar

This easy panna cotta recipe isn’t just about texture. It’s also about balance. The mellow notes of vanilla blend beautifully with the sweetness of cream and the natural tartness of strawberries.

Whether you’re creating a classic panna cotta or giving it a twist with vanilla panna cotta with berries, the flavor is consistently smooth, familiar, and uplifting.

Flexibility: Classic, Dairy Free, or Agar Agar Options

Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or experimenting with ingredients, this recipe is highly adaptable:

• Make it a gelatin panna cotta for the classic soft wobble
• Try an agar agar panna cotta if you need a vegetarian option
• Go completely dairy free with plant-based milks and coconut cream

You can also choose between serving styles, in set dessert cups or unmolded on plates. Either way, the recipe holds beautifully and impresses visually.

It’s Genuinely Easy and Always Elegant

Even if this is your first time making panna cotta, this recipe is designed to walk you through it with ease. No complicated tools, no baking, and minimal cooking. And yet, the result is refined enough to serve at any special event.

It’s not just a no bake strawberry dessert, it’s a moment of delight that you can create with your own hands.

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Panna Cotta

Conclusion

You now have everything you need to make a show‑stopping strawberry panna cotta that delivers on flavor, texture and presentation. Whether you choose the gelatin‑based version or opt for an agar agar panna cotta or dairy free panna cotta, the result will be a creamy Italian dessert that’s elegant and effortless. When you serve it in chilled set dessert cups or unmold the layered strawberry panna cotta onto plates, you’ll treat your guests to something both beautiful and delicious.
For more easy dessert inspiration, check out our other recipes on Viva Lyze on Facebook and Viva Lyze on Pinterest.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like Our Healthy Desserts Recipes , it’s packed with useful substitutions for mindful treats.