Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce

Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce is a luxurious, creamy dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of holiday eggnog with a smooth, velvety Italian panna cotta. Topped with a boozy cranberry sauce, this dessert is a perfect balance of rich and tangy, sweet and tart. Panna cotta, which means “cooked cream” in Italian, is a classic dessert that’s incredibly simple to make yet offers an elegant presentation. This festive version infuses the silky custard with seasonal eggnog and a hint of nutmeg, creating a dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious.

With the holidays around the corner, this Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce is an excellent addition to any celebration. It’s make-ahead friendly, allowing you to prepare it in advance and focus on other holiday preparations. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, bringing a dessert to a party, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this panna cotta is sure to impress.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from the basics of panna cotta to the details of making a spiked cranberry sauce that adds a beautiful red hue and fruity flavor to this dessert. Let’s get started on this easy yet stunning holiday treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce is a holiday dessert dream come true. The panna cotta is rich and creamy, while the cranberry sauce brings a burst of tartness and warmth from a splash of liqueur. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how impressive it looks in individual servings. Plus, this dessert is incredibly versatile—swap out the spiked cranberry sauce with other seasonal toppings, or add more holiday spices to suit your taste. The balance of textures and flavors is sure to make this dessert a memorable hit with friends and family.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes (for cranberry sauce and panna cotta heating)
• Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 small glass or ramekin

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 270 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 19g

Ingredients

For the Eggnog Panna Cotta

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
• 1 packet (1/4 oz) unflavored gelatin (about 2 1/2 teaspoons)
• 3 tablespoons cold water

For the Spiked Cranberry Sauce

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 2 tablespoons brandy, bourbon, or rum (optional, for spiked version)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)

For Serving

• Small dessert glasses, shot glasses, or ramekins
• Extra ground nutmeg for dusting
• Optional mint or rosemary sprigs for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

1. Combine Gelatin and Water: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the gelatin granules have absorbed the water and softened. This process is called “blooming” and is essential for achieving the creamy, smooth texture of panna cotta.

Step 2: Heat the Cream and Eggnog

1. Combine Cream, Eggnog, and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, eggnog, and sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add Nutmeg and Vanilla: Add the ground nutmeg and vanilla extract, and stir to combine. These flavors will infuse the panna cotta with holiday warmth and enhance the eggnog flavor.

Step 3: Dissolve the Gelatin

1. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat, and heat until the mixture is just about to simmer. Do not let it boil, as boiling can affect the texture of the panna cotta.
2. Add the Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin, whisking until it fully dissolves in the warm mixture. Ensure that there are no lumps, as these can cause an uneven texture.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

1. Pour into Glasses: Carefully pour the panna cotta mixture into small glasses, dessert cups, or ramekins, leaving space at the top for the cranberry sauce.
2. Chill in the Refrigerator: Cover the glasses with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is set. It should have a firm, custard-like texture that jiggles when moved.

Step 5: Prepare the Spiked Cranberry Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and orange juice.
2. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
3. Add Liqueur (Optional): If you’re making a spiked version, add the brandy, bourbon, or rum. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off slightly while leaving behind its flavor.
4. Cool the Sauce: Let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

1. Add Cranberry Sauce to Panna Cotta: Spoon a layer of cranberry sauce over the top of each panna cotta.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with a little extra nutmeg, and add a sprig of rosemary or mint for a festive touch.
3. Serve Chilled: Keep the dessert chilled until you’re ready to serve, as panna cotta tastes best when cold.

Ingredient Background

Eggnog, with its combination of milk, cream, sugar, and spices, is a classic holiday beverage that pairs beautifully with the smooth texture of panna cotta. Adding nutmeg and vanilla enhances the warmth and depth of flavor, while gelatin provides structure. Cranberries, which are tart and vibrant, balance the richness of the panna cotta, while the addition of brandy, bourbon, or rum in the sauce gives a festive spiked twist. This combination of ingredients makes for a sophisticated dessert with a unique seasonal spin.

Technique Tips

• Bloom the Gelatin Properly: Blooming the gelatin in cold water ensures that it dissolves smoothly into the panna cotta mixture.
• Avoid Boiling the Cream: Boiling can make the cream and eggnog separate. Heat until just before it reaches a simmer, then remove from heat.
• Allow for Enough Chill Time: The panna cotta needs at least 4 hours to set, so plan accordingly.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Layered Dessert Cups: For a more dramatic presentation, layer the panna cotta with cranberry sauce in tall glasses.
• Molded Panna Cotta: Pour the panna cotta into silicone molds. Once set, unmold onto dessert plates and spoon the cranberry sauce on top.
• Mini Trifles: Alternate layers of eggnog panna cotta, spiked cranberry sauce, and crushed gingersnap cookies for a mini trifle.

Additional Tips for Success

• Make the Cranberry Sauce Ahead: The cranberry sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance, saving time when assembling the dessert.
• Control the Sweetness: Taste the panna cotta mixture before chilling, and adjust the sugar if necessary. Eggnog varies in sweetness, so this can help balance the flavors.
• For a Non-Alcoholic Version: Simply omit the alcohol from the cranberry sauce, and add a splash of extra orange juice for flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Spiced Panna Cotta: Add a hint of ground cinnamon or ginger for a more complex spiced flavor.
• Maple Cranberry Sauce: Swap the sugar in the cranberry sauce with maple syrup for a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
• Chocolate Panna Cotta: Replace 1/4 cup of the eggnog with melted white chocolate for a decadent twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Store Leftovers: Store any leftover panna cotta covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Not Recommended: Freezing can change the texture of the panna cotta, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Lighten Up: Use half-and-half or a lighter eggnog instead of heavy cream for a reduced-fat version.
• Reduce Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the sugar in the panna cotta and cranberry sauce for a lower-sugar dessert.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Replace half of the cream with Greek yogurt to add a tangy flavor and extra protein.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Holiday Party: Serve these in small glasses on a decorative tray for an elegant touch at a holiday party.
• Dinner Party: For a sit-down dinner, serve each guest their own glass or ramekin with a sprig of rosemary and dusting of nutmeg for a polished presentation.
• New Year’s Celebration: Add a hint of edible glitter to the cranberry sauce for a festive look that’s perfect for New Year’s Eve.

Special Equipment

• Small Dessert Glasses or Ramekins: Choose clear glasses or ramekins to show off the beautiful layers.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for fully dissolving the gelatin and creating a smooth panna cotta.
• Fine Sieve: For a perfectly smooth texture, pour the panna cotta mixture through a sieve to catch any undissolved gelatin or clumps.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?
Yes, agar-agar is a plant-based alternative to gelatin. Follow the package instructions, as it may require different quantities and preparation methods.

2. Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream and eggnog with coconut milk or almond milk-based eggnog. Make sure to use dairy-free gelatin alternatives as well.

3. How do I know when the panna cotta is set?
The panna cotta should be firm to the touch but still have a slight jiggle in the center. If it’s too soft, chill it longer.

4. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely. This recipe scales up well; just use a larger saucepan and adjust chilling containers accordingly.

5. What other toppings can I use?
You can use a variety of toppings like caramelized pears, chocolate sauce, or spiced nuts.

6. Can I add more alcohol to the cranberry sauce?
Yes, but keep in mind that too much liquid can prevent the sauce from thickening. Stick to a maximum of 1/4 cup of alcohol.

7. How long can I store the panna cotta in the fridge?
Panna cotta will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert.

8. How can I make this dessert nut-free?
Omit any garnishes that contain nuts and serve with fruit or simple toppings instead.

Conclusion

Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce is an exquisite holiday dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious. With a creamy, custard-like base infused with the flavors of eggnog and nutmeg, and a vibrant, spiked cranberry sauce on top, this dessert offers a balanced flavor profile that’s both indulgent and refreshing. It’s a make-ahead dessert that allows you to enjoy the holiday festivities without worrying about last-minute preparation. Elegant, versatile, and memorable, this panna cotta is sure to become a holiday tradition.

Print