Cinnamon & Cider Panna Cotta

Panna Cotta — one of Italy’s simplest and most elegant desserts — gets a cozy fall makeover with cinnamon, apple cider spice, and a touch of Amaretti crunch. It’s smooth, spiced, and perfect for entertaining.

panna cotta final overhead with amaretti

Italian Translation: none – it [Panna Cotta] is already Italian!
Region of Origin: Piemonte
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Moscato d’Asti or Prosecco
Category: Dessert [‘Dolce’] 

Michelle’s Cucina

A note from my kitchen to yours.

 

Making one of the most beloved Italian desserts with a cozy seasonal twist, this Cinnamon & Cider Panna Cotta captures the warmth of fall through subtle spices and an Amaretti cookie garnish. Creamy and delicate yet firm from the gelatin, it’s effortlessly elegant — and perfect for making ahead when entertaining.

signature

What You’ll Need to Make Cinnamon & Cider Panna Cotta:

ingredients
  • 1 package gelatin (2 ½ teaspoons)
  • 2 Tablespoons water 
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream
  • 2 cups Whole Milk
  • ½ cup Sugar
  • ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 1 ¼ teaspoon Apple Cider Spice

Equipment & Tools for Cinnamon & Cider Panna Cotta:

  • Small bowl
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk – Small & Large
  • Silicone Muffin Molds

How to Make Cinnamon & Cider Panna Cotta:

gelatin in small bowl after blooming

Step 1: Bloom the gelatin.

In a small bowl, whisk together the water and gelatin and set aside.

pan with added ingredients

Step 2: Simmer the base.

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cream, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and apple cider spice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium to medium-high heat for 15–20 minutes.

pan with combined ingredients

Step 3: Combine and dissolve.

Remove from heat and whisk in the softened gelatin until fully dissolved.

pan with mixture dissolved prepping for molds

Step 4: Pour and chill.

Divide mixture into molds (about ½ cup per mold). Cover lightly and refrigerate overnight to set.

Step 5: Unmold and serve.

Loosen edges with a thin spatula or dip the molds briefly in warm water to release.

How to Serve Cinnamon & Cider Panna Cotta:

  • Serve on small dessert plates with a drizzle of caramel, maple syrup, or honey for extra autumn warmth.
  • Add a few thin apple slices or candied pecans beside each serving for color and texture.
  • Pair with an after-dinner espresso or a splash of Vin Santo or Moscato d’Asti for a true Italian finish.
 
Buon Appetito!
final panna cotta from the side angle
panna cotta final overhead with amaretti

CINNAMON & CIDER PANNA COTTA

Author: Michelle @ An Italian Kitchen
A silky, spiced Italian classic made for fall. This Cinnamon & Cider Panna Cotta features subtle apple cider notes, warm cinnamon, and a sweet Amaretti cookie finish.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Set in fridge. 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 24 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8

Equipment

  • Small bowl
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk - Small & Large
  • Silicone Muffin Molds

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package gelatin - 2 ½ teaspoons
  • 2 Tablespoons water
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream
  • 2 cups Whole Milk
  • ½ cup Sugar
  • ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 1 ¼ teaspoon Apple Cider Spice
  • Optional 8 Amaretti Cookies

Instructions

  • Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, whisk together the water and gelatin and set aside.
  • Simmer the base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cream, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and apple cider spice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium to medium-high heat for 15–20 minutes.
  • Combine and dissolve: Remove from heat and whisk in the softened gelatin until fully dissolved.
  • Pour and chill: Divide mixture into molds (about ½ cup per mold). Cover lightly and refrigerate overnight to set.
  • Unmold and serve: Loosen edges with a thin spatula or dip the molds briefly in warm water to release.
  • Buon Appetito! Serve chilled with crumbled or whole Amaretti cookies on top.

Notes

Serving & Garnish Tips:
  • Serve on small dessert plates with a drizzle of caramel, maple syrup, or honey for extra autumn warmth.
  • Add a few thin apple slices or candied pecans beside each serving for color and texture.
  • Pair with an after-dinner espresso or a splash of Vin Santo or Moscato d’Asti for a true Italian finish.
Keyword Easy, Fall, Northern Italy, Piedmont

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