Imagine sinking your spoon into a silky, creamy panna cotta that’s been kissed by the sweet richness of salted caramel. Then, just when you think it can’t get any better, you reach a crunchy layer of homemade praline that adds the perfect balance of sweetness and a little bite. This Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Praline is the kind of dessert that feels decadent but is surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re impressing guests at a dinner party or treating yourself to a well-deserved indulgence, this dessert is guaranteed to wow. Trust me, it’s everything you could want in a dessert rich, creamy, sweet, and just a little salty.

Why You’ll Love Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Praline

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: This panna cotta is elegant enough for a special occasion but easy enough for a casual treat. Serve it at a dinner party, a birthday, or a cozy night in.

Budget-Friendly: With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a dessert that feels like it came from a high-end restaurant, but without the hefty price tag.

Quick and Easy: The panna cotta does most of the work while you focus on the rich salted caramel and the crunchy praline topping. Once everything’s set, it’s just a matter of assembling the layers.

Customizable: Add different flavored syrups, berries, or even a dash of vanilla to the panna cotta base. You can also switch up the nuts in the praline almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios would all work beautifully.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. This dessert hits all the right notes—creamy, sweet, and salty with a touch of crunch. It’s a universal favorite that satisfies every sweet tooth.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Praline

The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a showstopper dessert.

Heavy Cream: The base of the panna cotta. It gives the dessert its ultra-creamy texture and luxurious mouthfeel.

Milk: Lightens the cream and adds the perfect balance to the richness of the panna cotta.

Granulated Sugar: For the panna cotta itself, sugar adds sweetness that balances out the salty caramel.

Gelatin: The magic ingredient that makes panna cotta set perfectly. It’s the key to achieving that silky, wobble-perfect texture.

Vanilla Extract: A hint of vanilla enhances the creamy base, adding warmth and depth.

Salted Caramel Sauce: The star of the show. Sweet and salty, this sauce elevates the panna cotta to new heights of indulgence.

Butter: Adds richness and depth to the salted caramel sauce, giving it a smooth finish.

Brown Sugar: Deepens the caramel flavor and adds richness to the sauce.

Praline (Sugar, Butter, and Nuts): Crunchy, sweet, and salty—this praline topping takes the panna cotta to the next level.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by preparing your panna cotta molds or serving glasses. If you’re using a mold, lightly grease it with butter to ensure easy removal later.

Make the Panna Cotta

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold milk and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. Once the gelatin has bloomed, whisk it into the warm cream mixture, stirring until fully dissolved. Add the vanilla extract, then pour the mixture into your prepared molds or glasses. Chill the panna cotta in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.

Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

To make the caramel, melt the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it turns a golden amber color. Add the butter and brown sugar, stirring until smooth. Then slowly add the cream, continuing to stir as it thickens. Finish with a pinch of salt for that perfect salty-sweet balance. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Prepare the Praline

In a saucepan, melt sugar and butter together until bubbly. Stir in your choice of chopped nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans work great) and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well coated. Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it cool completely. Once cooled, break it into small pieces to top your panna cotta.

Assemble the Dish

Once the panna cotta has set, carefully remove it from the molds (if using) and transfer to serving plates. Drizzle generously with the salted caramel sauce and top with the praline pieces. For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of sea salt or fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve chilled and enjoy! This dessert is best enjoyed after a meal, though it can be the perfect sweet snack whenever you need a little indulgence.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350
(Note: These values are approximate and can vary.)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours (includes chilling time)

How to Serve Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Praline

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve it alongside a simple fruit salad to balance the richness of the panna cotta.
• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra layer of decadence.
• Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for even more indulgence.
• Pair it with a glass of dessert wine, like a late-harvest Riesling or a sweet Moscato.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Make sure to let the panna cotta chill for the full 4 hours to achieve the perfect texture.
• If you’re using a mold, be gentle when removing the panna cotta to avoid breaking it.
• You can make the praline ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.
• Try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the salted caramel for a more complex flavor.
• If you’re making this for a special occasion, try garnishing with a few fresh edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

FAQs

1 Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes! Store-bought works just fine if you’re short on time, but homemade caramel gives it that extra touch of flavor.

2 Can I make the panna cotta dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a dairy-free butter for the salted caramel.

3 How do I remove the panna cotta from the mold?
Run a warm knife around the edges of the panna cotta, then gently invert onto a plate. If it’s stuck, dipping the mold in warm water for a few seconds can help loosen it.

4 Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the panna cotta can be made up to two days in advance, and the praline can be prepared well ahead of time as well.

5 Can I use a different topping instead of praline?
Definitely! Crushed cookies, candied nuts, or even fresh fruit would make great toppings.

6 How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover panna cotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

7 Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The salted caramel can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

8 How can I make this dessert look more elegant?
Use individual serving glasses or molds and garnish with a fresh sprig of mint, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of sea salt.

9 Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Absolutely! You can easily double the recipe and serve it in larger, family-style dishes or multiple individual servings.

10 What should I do if my caramel hardens too quickly?
If the caramel cools too fast, simply warm it up gently on the stove with a bit of cream to loosen it.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Panna Cotta with Praline is the perfect dessert to elevate any meal. With its creamy, luscious texture, rich caramel flavor, and satisfying crunch from the praline, it’s a dessert that checks all the boxes. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it all to yourself, this decadent treat will surely leave a lasting impression. So grab your ingredients, make that caramel, and prepare to indulge in one of the best desserts you’ll ever taste.

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