Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce Delight

July 18, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert this holiday season, you’ve got to try my eggnog panna cotta with spiked cranberry sauce! This creamy, dreamy treat brings all the festive feels to your table, and trust me, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. The rich flavor of eggnog pairs perfectly with a tart and boozy cranberry sauce that adds a splash of color and excitement. I love serving this at holiday gatherings because it’s so elegant yet surprisingly easy to make. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy the festivities. Imagine the smiles when your guests dig into this delightful dessert—it’s like a holiday hug in every bite!

eggnog panna cotta with spiked cranberry sauce - detail 1

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful eggnog panna cotta with spiked cranberry sauce. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that creamy texture and festive flavor, so let’s make sure we get them right!

2 cups eggnog: Use your favorite brand or homemade eggnog for the best flavor. This is the star of the show!
1/4 cup sugar: Just a bit to sweeten things up and balance the flavors.
1 tablespoon gelatin: This will help your panna cotta set perfectly. Make sure to use unflavored gelatin.
1/4 cup water: This is used to dissolve the gelatin. Room temperature works best!
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that extra layer of warmth and flavor—trust me, it makes a difference!
1 cup fresh cranberries: You’ll want these for the spiked sauce; fresh is best for that tart pop!
1/2 cup sugar for sauce: This sugar balances the tartness of the cranberries.
1/4 cup water for sauce: To help cook down the cranberries and create that lovely sauce.
1/4 cup bourbon: This adds a delightful kick to the sauce. You can adjust based on your taste preference!
1 teaspoon cinnamon: A warm spice that complements both the panna cotta and the cranberry sauce beautifully.

How to Prepare Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce

Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this eggnog panna cotta with spiked cranberry sauce! It may sound fancy, but I promise it’s easier than it looks. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress your friends and family!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by pouring 2 cups of eggnog and 1/4 cup of sugar into a medium saucepan. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar is completely dissolved. You don’t want it boiling—just warming up nicely!
While that’s happening, take 1 tablespoon of gelatin and sprinkle it over 1/4 cup of water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom. This step is crucial for getting that perfect panna cotta texture!
Once the eggnog mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved, add the bloomed gelatin to the saucepan. Stir it in until the gelatin is fully dissolved—this should take just a minute or two.
Now, add in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that lovely flavor boost. Give it a good stir!
Next, it’s time to pour this luscious mixture into your molds. You can use ramekins, silicone molds, or whatever you have on hand. Fill them up and then pop them in the refrigerator. Let them chill for at least 4 hours, or until they’re set and firm to the touch.
While your panna cotta is chilling, let’s make that spiked cranberry sauce! In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of fresh cranberries, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of water. Cook this over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens—about 10-15 minutes.
Once the cranberries have burst, stir in 1/4 cup of bourbon and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Let it cook for another minute, then remove from heat and let it cool completely.
When your panna cotta is set and the sauce has cooled, it’s time to serve! Carefully unmold the panna cotta onto your serving plates and spoon that delightful spiked cranberry sauce on top. Wow, right?

And there you have it! A stunning eggnog panna cotta topped with a spiked cranberry sauce that’s just bursting with festive flavor. Your holiday dessert game is officially on point!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for each serving of this delicious eggnog panna cotta with spiked cranberry sauce. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but they give you a good idea of what to expect!

Calories: 320
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 50mg

So, treat yourself to this festive delight—it’s rich and creamy, perfect for indulging during the holidays!

Tips for Success

To make sure your eggnog panna cotta with spiked cranberry sauce turns out perfectly, I’ve got some handy tips that will help you nail this recipe every time!

Measure Carefully: Precision is key, especially with the gelatin. Make sure to measure it out accurately for the right texture.
Bloom the Gelatin: Don’t skip the blooming step! Letting the gelatin sit in water for a few minutes is crucial for it to dissolve properly in the warm eggnog mixture.
Don’t Overheat: When warming the eggnog, keep the heat medium and avoid boiling it. You just want to dissolve the sugar without cooking the eggnog too much.
Chill Thoroughly: Allow ample time for the panna cotta to set in the fridge. At least 4 hours is ideal, but if you can let it chill overnight, even better!
Use Fresh Cranberries: For the sauce, always opt for fresh cranberries. They provide the best burst of tartness and flavor. If you can’t find fresh, frozen cranberries can work in a pinch!
Adjust the Bourbon: Feel free to tweak the amount of bourbon in the cranberry sauce based on your taste. If you want a lighter touch, reduce it a bit, or if you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash more!
Garnish for Appeal: A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a lovely touch and enhances that holiday vibe. You might even consider a few fresh cranberries for a pop of color!
Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving! If it needs a bit more sweetness or spice, don’t hesitate to adjust.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a show-stopping dessert that will impress everyone at your holiday gatherings. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Variations

If you’re feeling a little adventurous or just want to mix things up, here are some fun variations for your eggnog panna cotta with spiked cranberry sauce! Each twist brings its own delightful flair to this festive dessert.

Spiced Rum: Swap out the bourbon in the cranberry sauce for spiced rum for an extra layer of warmth and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with the eggnog!
Chocolate Drizzle: For a rich twist, drizzle some melted dark or white chocolate over the panna cotta before adding the cranberry sauce. It adds a decadent touch!
Nutmeg & Ginger: Enhance the spices in your panna cotta by adding a pinch of ground nutmeg or ginger to the eggnog mixture. It gives a lovely holiday spiciness!
Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, replace half of the eggnog with coconut cream. This adds a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor that’s simply divine!
Fruit Variations: Instead of just cranberries, try adding chopped apples or pears to your sauce for a fruity medley. Just cook them down with the sugar and water for a different flavor profile!
Vegan Option: Substitute the eggnog with a rich coconut or almond milk and use agar-agar instead of gelatin for a plant-based version that’s just as creamy!
Layered Panna Cotta: Create a layered effect by making a layer of vanilla panna cotta first, letting it set, and then adding the eggnog layer for a beautiful presentation!

These variations let you personalize your dessert to match your taste or occasion, making your eggnog panna cotta even more special. Have fun experimenting!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve created this stunning eggnog panna cotta with spiked cranberry sauce, let’s talk about how to make the presentation even more delightful! Here are some fabulous serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprig of mint or rosemary adds a beautiful touch and a pop of color to your plates. It looks so festive and gives a hint of freshness!
Pair with Gingerbread Cookies: Serve your panna cotta alongside some homemade gingerbread cookies or even store-bought ones. The spicy flavors complement the creaminess perfectly!
Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of the panna cotta can elevate it to another level of indulgence. You can even sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top for extra flair!
Serve with a Cheese Plate: Consider a small cheese platter with sharp cheddar or creamy brie. The contrast of flavors between the cheese and the sweet panna cotta is absolutely divine!
Accompany with a Holiday Drink: Pair your dessert with a glass of spiced cider, hot chocolate, or even a festive cocktail. It adds to the celebratory mood!
Set Up a Dessert Bar: If you’re hosting, create a mini dessert bar with your panna cotta as the star! Add different toppings like crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or various fruit compotes for guests to customize their servings.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll not only impress your guests with the panna cotta itself but also create a delightful dessert experience that captures the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Enjoy every moment of it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers of your eggnog panna cotta with spiked cranberry sauce! I know it can be tempting to just leave it out on the counter, but let’s keep it fresh and fabulous.

Storing Panna Cotta: If you have any panna cotta left after your festive gathering, simply cover each mold or ramekin with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re well-covered to avoid any fridge odors sneaking in!
Storing Cranberry Sauce: The spiked cranberry sauce can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week. If you find it thickens up too much after chilling, you can whisk in a little water or bourbon to loosen it up before serving again.

If you need to reheat the sauce, just pop it in a saucepan over low heat and stir gently until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, about 15-20 seconds at a time, stirring in between to ensure it heats evenly.

As for the panna cotta, it’s best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat it! Just serve it straight from the fridge, topped with that lovely cranberry sauce, and you’re all set to impress again!

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly and saves time. Just choose a brand you love, and you’re good to go!

What can I substitute for gelatin?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use agar-agar in place of gelatin. Just follow the package instructions for blooming and measurement adjustments.

How do I know when the panna cotta is set?
You’ll know it’s set when the panna cotta feels firm to the touch but still has a slight jiggle. If it’s too wobbly, it needs more time in the fridge.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the panna cotta a day in advance and just make the sauce on the day you plan to serve it.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the cranberry sauce?
Definitely! Simply omit the bourbon and add a splash of extra water or fruit juice to maintain flavor. You can also use apple cider for a festive touch!

What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?
If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen ones work just as well! Just toss them straight into the saucepan without thawing first.

Can I flavor the panna cotta differently?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like almond or peppermint for a unique twist that suits your holiday vibe.

How long will leftovers last?
Stored properly in the fridge, the panna cotta will last up to 3 days, and the spiked cranberry sauce can be kept for about a week. Just remember to cover them well!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.