This creamy Key Lime Panna Cotta by Giada is prepared using whole milk, heavy cream, Key lime juice, gelatin, and sugar. This refreshing Italian dessert takes about 6.5 hours to prepare and can serve up to 6 people.

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Recipe Ingredients

• 1 cup of whole milk
• 1 tbsp of unflavored powdered gelatin (from 1 packet)
• 2 cups of heavy cream
• ⅓ cup of sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tbsp of freshly grated Key lime zest
• 3 tbsp of fresh Key lime juice (from 6 Key limes)
• 1 Key lime, sliced into wheels, for garnish
• ¼ cup of graham cracker crumbs

How To Make Giada Key Lime Panna Cotta

1. Prepare the Gelatin Mixture: Place 1 cup of whole milk in a small bowl. Sprinkle 1 tbsp of unflavored powdered gelatin over the milk. Let the mixture stand for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the gelatin to soften properly.
2. Heat and Dissolve Gelatin: Pour the milk and gelatin mixture into a heavy saucepan. Stir the mixture over medium heat, making sure the milk does not boil, for about 5 minutes until the gelatin dissolves completely.
3. Add Cream and Sweeteners: Add 2 cups of heavy cream, ⅓ cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. Stir continuously for 5 to 7 minutes until the sugar has fully dissolved. Remove the saucepan from heat.
4. Incorporate Lime and Strain: Slowly stir 3 tbsp of fresh Key lime juice into the cream mixture. Strain the mixture into a large measuring cup to remove any lumps. Gently stir in 1 tbsp of Key lime zest.
5. Pour and Refrigerate: Pour the mixture evenly into 4 to 6 stemmed glasses, filling each halfway. Let them cool for a few minutes at room temperature, then place them in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours until set.
6. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish each panna cotta with a slice of Key lime. Sprinkle ¼ cup of graham cracker crumbs on top for a delightful finish.

Recipe Tips

• Chill the Panna Cotta Glasses: To prevent melting during serving, chill the serving glasses in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before pouring the panna cotta mixture. This helps the dessert set more evenly.
• Add a Tropical Twist: For a different flavor profile, try adding 1 tbsp of coconut milk along with the heavy cream. It adds a hint of tropical flavor that pairs well with Key lime.
• Sweeten to Your Taste: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, increase the sugar by an additional 2 tbsp. Taste the mixture after dissolving the sugar to adjust to your liking.
• Try a Citrus Mix: For a variation, use a combination of 2 tbsp of Key lime juice and 1 tbsp of lemon juice. This adds a subtle tanginess and a fresh, balanced citrus taste.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

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