30-Minute Nutella S'mores Panna Cotta

Prep: 20 minCook: 5 min6 servingsmediumItalian-American
Nutella S'mores Panna Cotta with Marshmallow Frosting

A sophisticated twist on the classic campfire treat that transforms beloved s'mores flavors into an elegant molded dessert. Rich Nutella-infused cream sets into silky panna cotta, topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting and crunchy Golden Grahams cereal pieces. Perfect for dinner parties or special occasions when you want to surprise guests with nostalgic flavors presented in an upscale format. The contrast between the smooth, chocolatey base and the sweet, airy topping creates an irresistible combination that captures all the essence of s'mores without the campfire.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons unflavored gelatin
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 cup Nutella hazelnut spread with cocoa
    chocolate hazelnut spread1:1brandadds tree_nuts

    similar flavor profile

    Full guide →
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
    half-and-half1:1dietarydairy-free

    lighter texture but less rich

    Full guide →
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup marshmallow creme
    mini marshmallows melted3/4 cupingredient

    need to melt first

  • cup butter, softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup Golden Grahams cereal, crushed
    graham cracker crumbs1:1substitution

    more traditional s'mores flavor

Instructions

  1. 1

    Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in medium bowl and whisk

  2. 2

    Mix Nutella and salt in large bowl

  3. 3

    Heat whipping cream and vanilla to boiling in saucepan

  4. 4

    Pour one-third of hot cream over gelatin mixture and whisk

  5. 5

    Pour remaining cream over Nutella and whisk until smooth

  6. 6

    Add gelatin mixture to Nutella mixture and beat well

  7. 7

    Beat in milk until combined

  8. 8

    Divide mixture among six 6-ounce ramekins or custard cups

  9. 9

    Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours until set

  10. 10

    Beat marshmallow creme and softened butter with electric mixer on medium speed until blended

  11. 11

    Beat in powdered sugar until smooth

  12. 12

    Run offset spatula or thin knife around edge of each panna cotta

  13. 13

    Dip bottom of each ramekin into very hot water for 5 seconds

  14. 14

    Place serving plate upside down over ramekin, turn over and remove ramekin

  15. 15

    Spoon or pipe about 2 tablespoons marshmallow frosting on top

  16. 16

    Top each with 2 teaspoons crushed cereal

Tips

Tip 1

Dip the ramekins in hot water for exactly 5 seconds to avoid melting the panna cotta while ensuring clean removal.

Tip 2

Use an offset spatula to run around edges before unmolding for the smoothest release and professional presentation.

Tip 3

Chill serving plates in advance to help maintain the panna cotta's shape once unmolded.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate covered up to 3 days. Best served within 24 hours for optimal texture.

Make Ahead

Make panna cotta up to 2 days ahead. Add marshmallow frosting and cereal just before serving.

Serve With

Serve chilled immediately after unmolding. Allow to come to room temperature for 5 minutes if too firm.

Common Mistakes

Watch

Use boiling cream to properly dissolve gelatin and avoid lumps.

Watch

Don't skip the hot water dip or panna cotta won't release cleanly from ramekins.

Watch

Add marshmallow frosting just before serving to prevent it from deflating or becoming sticky.

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

heavy whipping cream
half-and-half1:1dietarydairy-free

lighter texture but less rich

Full guide →

General Alternatives

Nutella
chocolate hazelnut spread1:1brandadds tree_nuts

similar flavor profile

Full guide →
Golden Grahams
graham cracker crumbs1:1substitution

more traditional s'mores flavor

Full guide →
marshmallow creme
mini marshmallows melted3/4 cupingredient

need to melt first

Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this without unmolding the panna cotta?

Yes, simply serve directly in the ramekins with the marshmallow frosting and cereal on top for easier preparation and serving.

What if I don't have Golden Grahams cereal?

Substitute with crushed graham crackers, honey graham cereal, or even crushed digestive biscuits for similar crunch and flavor.

How long will this keep in the refrigerator?

The panna cotta will keep covered for up to 3 days, but add the marshmallow frosting and cereal topping just before serving for best texture.