Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Pecan Praline: A Dessert for Every Occasion

There’s something truly magical about desserts that combine rich, indulgent flavors with textures that surprise your taste buds. Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Pecan Praline is one of those desserts that can transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary. Picture this: a creamy panna cotta with the irresistible flavor of salted caramel, topped with crunchy pecan praline that adds just the right amount of sweetness and texture. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from a simple family dinner to an elegant dinner party. The best part? It’s deceptively simple to make, even for beginner cooks.

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Panna cotta, which means “cooked cream” in Italian, is a traditional dessert that’s known for its smooth, silky texture. With its roots in Italian cuisine, this dessert is often infused with flavors such as vanilla or coffee, but the addition of salted caramel gives it a luxurious twist. When paired with a crunchy pecan praline topping, it becomes an irresistible combination of creamy, salty, and sweet that’s impossible to resist. If you’re looking for a dessert that will wow your guests, this Salted Caramel Panna Cotta is sure to be a hit. And if you’ve never made panna cotta before, don’t worry! This beginner-friendly recipe is straightforward, with clear steps that anyone can follow to create a dessert that looks like it’s from a fancy restaurant.

Ingredients and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need for both the panna cotta and the praline. You won’t need any exotic or hard-to-find ingredients, which makes this dessert perfect for those new to cooking. All of the ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, and the recipe is adaptable if you need to make substitutions.

Ingredients for Panna Cotta

• 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) pouring cream: The foundation of the panna cotta’s creamy texture. You can substitute it with coconut cream for a dairy-free version if preferred.
• 3/4 cup full cream milk: Balances the richness of the cream, helping to create a smooth and velvety base. Almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
• 3/4 cup caster sugar: Adds sweetness to the panna cotta and helps create the caramel flavor when combined with the cream. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use a sugar substitute such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• 2 x 5-gram gold strength gelatine leaves: These are essential for setting the panna cotta and giving it that iconic jiggle. If you prefer to use powdered gelatin, you’ll need to check the package for the equivalent amount.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt flakes: Enhances the caramel flavor and adds a subtle savory note that complements the sweetness of the sugar. This is the key to the salted caramel taste.

Ingredients for Pecan Praline

• 1/2 cup caster sugar: Used to create the caramelized sugar for the praline. For a different flavor profile, you can substitute brown sugar.
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans: These add a deliciously nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts can be substituted if you prefer different nuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making panna cotta and praline might seem like a complicated process, but in reality, it’s quite simple once you break it down into easy-to-follow steps. Here’s how to create this delicious dessert from start to finish:

For the Panna Cotta

1. Heat the cream and milk
   Start by combining the pouring cream and full cream milk in a medium saucepan. Place the pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching. You’ll want to heat the mixture until it’s just below the boiling point, with small bubbles forming around the edges. Once it’s heated through, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
2. Soften the gelatine
   While the cream mixture is heating up, take your gelatine leaves and place them in a bowl filled with cold water. Make sure the gelatine is fully submerged and leave it to soak for about 5 minutes. This helps soften the gelatine so it can easily dissolve into the caramel mixture later.
3. Caramelize the sugar
   In a separate small saucepan, add the caster sugar. Set it over medium heat and allow it to melt slowly, swirling the pan occasionally. Be careful not to stir the sugar, as this can cause it to crystallize. Watch the sugar closely as it melts, and once it reaches a deep amber color, it’s ready to be combined with the cream mixture. This is the stage where the magic of salted caramel happens!
4. Add the cream mixture to the caramel
   Once the caramel has reached the perfect amber color, carefully pour in the warm cream and milk mixture. Stir continuously as you add it, as some of the caramel may solidify when it hits the cooler cream mixture. This is completely normal, so just keep whisking until the caramel has fully dissolved into the cream mixture.
5. Add the softened gelatine
   Next, take the softened gelatine leaves and squeeze out any excess water. Add the gelatine to the warm caramel mixture and whisk until it completely dissolves. The gelatine is what will help the panna cotta set and achieve that signature creamy, wobbly texture.
6. Add the salt
   Stir in the salt flakes, which will enhance the flavor of the caramel and give the panna cotta a subtle savory note. This is the key to the “salted” aspect of the salted caramel panna cotta.
7. Set the panna cotta
   Pour the caramel panna cotta mixture into small molds or individual serving dishes. Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then transfer the molds to the refrigerator. Let the panna cotta chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.

For the Pecan Praline

1. Toast the pecans
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking tray and toast them in the oven for 10 minutes, or until they’re fragrant and lightly golden. Be sure to check on them occasionally to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the caramel
   While the pecans are cooling, prepare the caramel for the praline. In a small saucepan, add the caster sugar and heat it over medium heat. Swirl the pan gently to encourage even melting, but don’t stir. As the sugar melts, it will transform into a golden amber color. Once it’s fully melted, it’s ready to pour over the pecans.
3. Combine the pecans and caramel
   Lightly grease a tray or pan to prevent the praline from sticking. Spread the toasted pecans evenly on the tray and then pour the hot caramel over them. Work quickly, as the caramel will begin to harden as soon as it’s poured. Use a spatula to ensure the pecans are evenly coated with the caramel.
4. Let the praline cool
   Allow the pecan praline to cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s set, break the praline into smaller pieces by placing it in a plastic bag and gently tapping it with a rolling pin. You can break it into fine pieces or leave some larger chunks for added texture.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Even though this dessert seems fancy, there are a few tips to make sure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Be careful with the caramel: The sugar can go from golden to burnt very quickly. Keep an eye on it while it’s melting and never leave it unattended. If it does burn, you’ll need to start over.
• Gelatine tips: If you’re using powdered gelatine, follow the instructions on the packet for the proper ratio to ensure the panna cotta sets perfectly.
• Test the panna cotta: After chilling, gently press on the panna cotta to check its firmness. It should feel slightly firm but still have a wobble.
• Flavor variations: For a twist, you can infuse the cream mixture with vanilla or add a splash of orange liqueur for a citrusy kick.
• Prepare ahead: Panna cotta is a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the day before and let it set in the fridge overnight, making it an ideal choice for dinner parties or special occasions.

Serving Suggestions

This Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Pecan Praline is rich and indulgent on its own, but here are a few ideas for serving it:

• Fresh fruit: A few slices of fresh berries or citrus fruits add a refreshing contrast to the creamy and sweet panna cotta.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds extra richness and pairs perfectly with the caramel flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: If you’re a chocolate lover, drizzle some melted dark or milk chocolate over the top for a decadent finish.
• Aromatic coffee: This dessert pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine, such as a sweet Moscato or a smooth Port.

For leftovers, store the panna cotta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The praline will keep for up to a week in a sealed container at room temperature. However, it’s best to add the praline just before serving, as it can lose its crunch over time.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Pecan Praline is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast, a dinner party, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. The creamy, luscious panna cotta is balanced by the salty caramel and crunchy pecan praline, making every bite an absolute delight. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, even beginners can achieve a stunning result that’s sure to impress. So, give this recipe a try, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a dessert that’s as decadent as it is delicious. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts—I’d love to hear how it turns out!