Eggnog Panna Cotta with Nutmeg

Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes

Indulge in the creamy delight of Eggnog Panna Cotta, a festive dessert infused with the warm flavors of nutmeg.

Lena

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-12T19:28:50.820Z

This Eggnog Panna Cotta is the perfect holiday dessert, combining the rich flavors of eggnog and the spice of nutmeg. It's a classic Italian dessert reimagined for the festive season, sure to impress your guests!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich eggnog flavor with a hint of nutmeg
  • Silky smooth texture that's easy to make
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations

The Perfect Holiday Dessert

Eggnog Panna Cotta is the ultimate dessert to celebrate the festive season. Its creamy texture and rich flavors embody the essence of holiday indulgence. This delightful treat is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it an impressive addition to your holiday table. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet evening with loved ones, this panna cotta will surely elevate the occasion.

The beauty of Eggnog Panna Cotta lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a sophisticated dessert that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant. It's a fantastic way to showcase the flavors of eggnog, a traditional holiday beverage, while introducing a new twist. Your guests will be impressed by your culinary skills and grateful for this unique dessert.

A Versatile Dessert

One of the many reasons to love Eggnog Panna Cotta is its versatility. While it's perfect for Christmas and New Year's celebrations, it can also be enjoyed year-round. You can easily adapt the flavors by incorporating different spices or toppings to suit your palate. For instance, consider adding a splash of rum or bourbon for an adult twist, or try infusing the panna cotta with peppermint for a refreshing summer treat.

Additionally, Eggnog Panna Cotta can be served in various ways. Whether you choose to present it in elegant glasses, mini jars, or even as part of a larger dessert platter, it’s sure to impress. The creamy base pairs wonderfully with a variety of garnishes, allowing you to customize each serving to your liking. This flexibility makes it a fantastic dessert choice for any occasion.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Eggnog Panna Cotta, it’s essential to take your time during the preparation process. Make sure to allow the gelatin ample time to bloom, as this step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Additionally, be careful not to let the eggnog and cream mixture boil, as this can affect the final consistency and flavor of your dessert.

When it comes to serving, consider adding a festive touch with your garnishes. Whipped cream is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with flavored whipped creams or even a dollop of eggnog itself. A sprinkle of ground nutmeg adds a beautiful finish, while cinnamon sticks not only enhance the presentation but also infuse a lovely aroma as your guests enjoy their dessert.

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta

  • 2 cups eggnog
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

  • Whipped cream
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Cinnamon sticks (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold eggnog. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.

Heat the Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining eggnog, heavy cream, and sugar. Stir occasionally until the mixture is hot but not boiling.

Combine Gelatin and Mixture

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved. Add the ground nutmeg and vanilla extract.

Chill the Panna Cotta

Pour the mixture into individual serving glasses or molds. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

Serve

Once set, top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground nutmeg, and a cinnamon stick if desired. Enjoy!

For best flavor, chill overnight before serving.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Eggnog Panna Cotta, fear not! This dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply top it off with fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a delightful treat.

While it's best served fresh, the flavors of the panna cotta can deepen and become even more luscious after a day in the fridge. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for busy holiday schedules. Just prepare it in advance, and you'll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your guests at a moment's notice.

Serving Suggestions

Eggnog Panna Cotta pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a delightful contrast in flavors and textures, serve it alongside gingerbread cookies or spiced biscotti. These crunchy treats provide a wonderful balance to the creamy panna cotta and enhance the festive experience.

For a more decadent touch, consider drizzling the panna cotta with a spiced caramel sauce or chocolate ganache. This addition not only elevates the dessert but also offers a rich flavor profile that complements the eggnog beautifully. Your dessert will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on the plate.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor of panna cotta?

Yes, you can substitute eggnog with flavored cream like vanilla or chocolate.

→ How long can I store panna cotta?

Panna cotta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day or two in advance.

Eggnog Panna Cotta with Nutmeg

Indulge in the creamy delight of Eggnog Panna Cotta, a festive dessert infused with the warm flavors of nutmeg.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Lena

Recipe Type: Hearty Food Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Panna Cotta

  1. 2 cups eggnog
  2. 1/2 cup heavy cream
  3. 1/4 cup sugar
  4. 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
  5. 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  6. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

  1. Whipped cream
  2. Ground nutmeg
  3. Cinnamon sticks (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold eggnog. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.

Step 02

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining eggnog, heavy cream, and sugar. Stir occasionally until the mixture is hot but not boiling.

Step 03

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved. Add the ground nutmeg and vanilla extract.

Step 04

Pour the mixture into individual serving glasses or molds. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

Step 05

Once set, top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground nutmeg, and a cinnamon stick if desired. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g