Healthy panna cotta dessert topped with fresh berries and sauce.

The Best Panna Cotta Recipe with Simple Ingredients

by

Craving a creamy dessert that’s both delicious and healthy? This low-sugar panna cotta recipe is perfect for anyone who loves dessert but prefers healthier options. Made with simple ingredients, this easy, no-bake dessert will quickly become a favorite for home cooks.

Why Choose Healthy Panna Cotta?

Traditional panna cotta is delicious but often loaded with sugar and heavy cream. However, our healthy version uses Greek yogurt and almond milk, reducing calories and sugar without sacrificing flavor or texture. Reducing sugar intake is beneficial for your overall health, as explained by Harvard’s Nutrition Source. As a result, it’s creamy, smooth, and guilt-free!

Benefits of this Recipe:

  • Low in sugar: Uses natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
  • Protein-rich: Greek yogurt boosts protein content.
  • Easy and quick: Only takes minutes to prepare, no baking required.
  • Make-ahead dessert: Ideal for busy schedules or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for added creaminess)
  • 2–3 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
  • 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • Fresh berries for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

First, sprinkle gelatin evenly over cold water in a small bowl. Then, let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.

Blooming gelatin powder in cold water for healthy panna cotta recipe.
Evenly sprinkle gelatin powder over cold water to ensure a perfectly smooth panna cotta texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Milk Mixture

Next, gently heat almond milk and heavy cream (if using) in a saucepan until steaming but not boiling. After that, stir in honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract. Remove from heat.

Heating almond milk and cream in a saucepan for panna cotta.
Warm almond milk and cream gently until steaming, then stir in vanilla and honey for the perfect panna cotta base.

Step 3: Combine Gelatin and Milk Mixture

Then, add the bloomed gelatin into the warm milk mixture and stir until completely dissolved.

Pouring bloomed gelatin into warm milk mixture for panna cotta.
Gently stir bloomed gelatin into the warm milk and cream mixture until fully dissolved for a smooth panna cotta base.

Step 4: Add Yogurt

Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Subsequently, whisk in Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.

Pour Greek yogurt into the cooled milk mixture and whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Chill

Finally, pour the mixture into ramekins or glasses. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Placing ramekins of panna cotta into the refrigerator to chill.
Pour the panna cotta mixture into ramekins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled panna cotta topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce. Alternatively, for an elegant presentation, unmold onto plates by briefly dipping ramekins in warm water

Fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries in a wooden bowl.
A colorful bowl of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries—perfect as a natural topping for panna cotta.

Printable Recipe Card

Healthy Low-Sugar Panna Cotta

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 5 mins
  • Chill Time: 4 hrs+

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
  • 2–3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 packet gelatin
  • 3 tbsp cold water
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Fresh berries (optional)

Instructions:

  1. First, bloom gelatin in cold water.
  2. Next, heat milk and cream; stir in honey and vanilla.
  3. Then, dissolve gelatin into warm milk mixture.
  4. After that, whisk in yogurt until smooth.
  5. Finally, pour into molds, chill for 4 hours minimum.

Variations

  • Dairy-free: Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and heavy cream with coconut cream.
  • Vegan: Alternatively, use agar agar instead of gelatin, coconut milk, and dairy-free yogurt.
  • Flavor Twists: Additionally, add cocoa, espresso, or citrus zest for unique variations.

FAQ

Can I make panna cotta without gelatin?
Yes, you can use agar agar as a plant-based substitute. However, boil it briefly with milk for best results.

How long does panna cotta last?
Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days for optimal texture and freshness.

Enjoy your delicious, healthy panna cotta!

With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is sure to become a go-to whenever you want a light dessert. It’s amazing how a few swaps like Greek yogurt and almond milk can turn a classic into a nutritious treat. Whether you stick to the elegant vanilla version or get creative with flavors, this low-sugar panna cotta will wow your taste buds every time. Happy cooking and bon appétit!