The Best, Easy Panna Cotta Recipe

Panna cotta—meaning “cooked cream” in Italian—is the kind of dessert that seduces with its simplicity: silky, smooth, firmly set yet delicate, lightly sweet, and endlessly elegant. In this version, the classic formula gets a thoughtful update: instead of relying purely on heavy cream and refined sugar, the base features cream, raw honey, and creamy Greek yogurt. The result is a custard-like pudding that feels both indulgent and fresh. The Thrive Market recipe for Yogurt Panna Cotta invites you to swap in yogurt for traditional dairy alone, letting the tang of yogurt bring brightness instead of heaviness.

Because the ingredient list is tight—gelatin, cream, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla, water—and the recipe is featured under the “Gluten-Free” category on the source page, this dessert qualifies as gluten-free (so long as all ingredients used are verified GF) and is suitable for anyone seeking a refined but accessible pudding.

Prepared ahead and refrigerated until set, this panna cotta becomes a perfect make-ahead dessert, breakfast option, or elegant treat that travels from brunch to dinner with ease. Whether you serve it in small cups or unmold for plating, its understated elegance makes it feel like something special without being overly complicated.

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Easy Panna Cotta

Recipe Details

Yield: 6 servings
Active Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours and 10 minutes

Panna Cotta Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon grass-fed gelatin
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup cream
• 1/4 cup raw honey, plus more for serving
• 3 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh fruit, nuts, or granola, optional

How to Make Panna Cotta

1. Sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup water in a small bowl. Set aside to soften.
2. Warm cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in honey.
3. Once bubbles start to form around the edges of the cream, remove from heat and whisk in gelatin mixture until thoroughly combined.
4. In a large bowl, whisk yogurt until light and fluffy, then whisk in vanilla.
5. Fold in gelatin-and-cream mixture. Divide mixture between 6 small cups, cover, and let set in fridge at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Serve in cups, or unmold the panna cotta onto a small plate by running a knife around the edges and flipping over the cup. Spoon honey, fruit, nuts, or granola over the top, if desired.

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Panna Cotta Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 6 servings). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 serving (1/6 of recipe)
Calories	≈ 300 kcal
Protein	≈ 12 g
Carbs	≈ 17 g
Sugar	≈ 17 g
Fiber	≈ 0 g
Fat	≈ 21 g

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Panna Cotta Variations & Tips

• Vegan swap: Use agar-agar or a vegan gelatin alternative with full-fat coconut cream in place of dairy cream for a dairy-free version.
• Flavor infusions: Add lemon or orange zest, matcha powder, or a splash of espresso to the mix for twist variations.
• Texture lightening: Replace half of the cream with almond milk or cashew milk to reduce richness while keeping creaminess.
• Topping creativity: Serve with macerated berries, toasted nuts, granola, or a drizzle of raw honey—the original suggestions from the recipe.
• Mold release tip: Before unmolding, dip the bottom of the ramekin in hot water for 5–10 seconds to ease removal.
• Batch ahead: The recipe specifies a 4-hour chill time (or overnight) which makes it ideal for prepping the day before entertaining.

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Best Panna Cotta Pairings

• Fresh berries or stone fruit: Raspberries, blueberries, peaches or plums bring tart sweetness to balance the creamy pudding.
• Shortbread or gluten-free crisp cookies: Add crunch alongside the soft texture of panna cotta.
• Espresso or strong brewed coffee: The bitterness cuts through sweetness and enhances dessert depth.
• Herbal tea with citrus notes: Lemon balm or mint tea complements the yogurt’s tang and vanilla finish.
• Light dessert wine or sparkling wine: A chilled Prosecco or Moscato pairs well with the delicate sweetness and texture.

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When to Make Panna Cotta

• Brunch gatherings: Serve panna cotta in individual cups for a chic brunch dessert or breakfast treat.
• Dinner parties: Prepare ahead and serve unmolded for an elegant end to a meal.
• Holiday celebrations: Use as a lighter dessert option amid heavier pies and cakes.
• Meal-prep snacking: Make mini portions early in the week for quick, elegant desserts or breakfasts.
• Picnic dessert: Transport well in jars or sealed containers—serve chilled outdoors for a refined treat.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont