Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries
Highlighted under: Creative Baking Inspiration
I absolutely love making this Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries for special occasions. The creamy, delicate texture of the panna cotta pairs beautifully with the tartness of the fresh raspberries. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Each spoonful feels like a luxurious treat, and the pleasing presentation adds to the overall experience. Whether it’s a dinner party or a simple family dinner, this dessert never fails to delight everyone at the table.
When I first tried making panna cotta, I was surprised by how simple and rewarding it was. The key to achieving that perfect wobbly texture lies in the right balance of gelatin and cream. I made a few adjustments to the traditional recipe, adding a hint of vanilla bean to enhance the flavor. The results were heavenly!
Serving the panna cotta with fresh raspberries not only adds a pop of color but also brings a delightful tartness that cuts through the creaminess. I recommend preparing this dessert a few hours in advance so that it has ample time to set in the fridge, ensuring a perfect texture when it's time to serve.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Luxurious creaminess that's effortlessly elegant
- The sweet and tangy pairing with fresh raspberries
- Perfect make-ahead dessert for stress-free entertaining
The Art of Panna Cotta
Achieving the perfect panna cotta involves mastering the balance of cream and gelatin. The heavy cream provides a rich, luxurious mouthfeel, while the gelatin ensures that the dessert sets properly without becoming too firm. If you're unsure about the setting, a good test is to check the texture after chilling; it should be soft enough to quiver gently when you touch it but firm enough to hold its shape when plated.
When preparing the gelatin, it's crucial to let it bloom in cold water before adding it to the warm cream mixture. This step ensures that the gelatin dissolves evenly, preventing any lumps that would mar the silky texture of the panna cotta. If you've accidentally added gelatin to hot liquid too quickly, the result may be a grainy finish, so patience is key.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
For a stunning presentation, consider serving the panna cotta in clear glass cups or jars, allowing guests to see the beautiful, creamy layers. I love to top mine with a vibrant raspberry sauce, made simply by simmering fresh raspberries with a touch of sugar until they break down and thicken. This adds an extra level of flavor while enhancing the dessert’s visual appeal.
If you're looking to add a twist, consider infusing the cream with other flavors such as citrus zests or herbs like basil or mint while heating. Strain the mixture before adding the gelatin to remove any solids, creating a unique variation that surprises your guests. Additionally, for those avoiding dairy, coconut milk can be substituted for heavy cream to create a lovely, tropical panna cotta.
Ingredients
For the Panna Cotta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
For Serving
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Gelatin
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
Heat the Cream Mixture
In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm, but not boiling.
Add Gelatin to Cream
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract until fully dissolved.
Pour into Molds
Let the mixture cool slightly, then pour it into individual molds or serving cups. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Serve with Raspberries
Once set, gently run a knife along the edges to loosen the panna cotta if using molds. Invert onto plates and serve topped with fresh raspberries and mint leaves, if desired.
Enjoy this delightful dessert as a refreshing end to your meal!
Pro Tips
- For a richer flavor, you can infuse the cream with a few sprigs of fresh mint while heating, then strain before adding gelatin.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This panna cotta recipe is ideal for making ahead of time, as it can be refrigerated for up to three days. This not only saves time on the day of your event but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover the molds with plastic wrap, preventing any fridge odors from affecting the dessert's taste.
If you're considering freezing the panna cotta, it's best to do so without the raspberry topping. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator for several hours. However, the texture may change slightly after freezing, so I recommend preparing them fresh for best results if you can.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're looking to cut down on calories, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which will give you a creamier texture while reducing fat content. Just note that this may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust the sweetness level to your taste.
For those with dietary restrictions, plant-based options like almond or cashew milk can be used in place of whole milk, and coconut cream can be a great substitute for heavy cream. Keep in mind that these swaps may alter the final texture, but they can offer delightful results nonetheless.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, you can substitute with any fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or mangoes.
→ How long can I keep panna cotta in the fridge?
Panna cotta can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ What can I use instead of gelatin?
You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative, but be sure to follow the package instructions for proper usage.
→ Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy your event.
Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries
I absolutely love making this Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries for special occasions. The creamy, delicate texture of the panna cotta pairs beautifully with the tartness of the fresh raspberries. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Each spoonful feels like a luxurious treat, and the pleasing presentation adds to the overall experience. Whether it’s a dinner party or a simple family dinner, this dessert never fails to delight everyone at the table.
Created by: Bryony Wells
Recipe Type: Creative Baking Inspiration
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Panna Cotta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
For Serving
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm, but not boiling.
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract until fully dissolved.
Let the mixture cool slightly, then pour it into individual molds or serving cups. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Once set, gently run a knife along the edges to loosen the panna cotta if using molds. Invert onto plates and serve topped with fresh raspberries and mint leaves, if desired.
Extra Tips
- For a richer flavor, you can infuse the cream with a few sprigs of fresh mint while heating, then strain before adding gelatin.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 55mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 21g
- Protein: 3g