Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries

Name: Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 envelope (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin; 3 tablespoons cold water; 2 cups fresh raspberries; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen

I absolutely love how effortlessly elegant this Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries is. It's creamy, dreamy, and the hint of vanilla makes every bite a delight. The fresh raspberries add a vibrant, tart contrast that perfectly balances the sweetness of the panna cotta. This dessert has become my go-to for dinner parties, and I can whip it up in no time. Plus, it sets beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for prepping ahead of time and serving at the perfect moment.

Created by

Phoebe Langridge

Last updated on 2026-01-08T10:49:42.347Z

When I first discovered how to make panna cotta, it felt like uncovering a hidden gem in the world of desserts. The silky texture and rich flavor of this Vanilla Panna Cotta never fail to amaze me, especially when paired with the tartness of fresh raspberries. I've learned that allowing the panna cotta to set for a few hours, or even overnight, is key to achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth finish.

One evening, I decided to experiment by infusing the cream with a touch of orange zest, which worked wonders and took the flavors to a whole new level. I encourage you to trust your palate and feel free to customize the panna cotta with your favorite fruits or flavorings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Luxuriously creamy and smooth texture
Refreshing contrast from the tart raspberries
Easily customizable to suit your flavor preferences

      

Perfecting Your Panna Cotta

When preparing your panna cotta, make sure to heat the cream mixture gently over medium heat. This prevents the cream from scorching, which can impact the flavor and texture. It should be hot enough for the sugar to dissolve fully, but not boiling—look for small bubbles forming around the edges of the pan. Monitoring this step closely will ensure a silky smooth texture, free of lumps caused by undissolved sugar or gelatin.

Blooming the gelatin is crucial for achieving the right consistency. The gelatin should be soft and spongy after sitting in cold water for about 5 minutes. If it doesn't bloom, your panna cotta may end up with a grainy texture. Always dissolve the bloomed gelatin in the warm cream mixture thoroughly; I recommend whisking vigorously to prevent any clumps. This ensures that your dessert sets beautifully, giving it that signature creamy elegance.

Crafting the Raspberry Sauce

The raspberry sauce is a vibrant complement that adds both flavor and visual appeal. As you cook the berries with sugar and lemon juice, mash them gently with a fork or a potato masher to help release their juices. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce has reduced and thickened slightly, but avoid overcooking to retain some texture in the raspberries. If you prefer a smoother sauce, straining through a fine-mesh sieve is a great way to remove the seeds.

You can easily customize the raspberry sauce based on your taste. If fresh raspberries are unavailable, consider using frozen raspberries—just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. For a different flavor profile, experimenting with other berries like strawberries or blueberries can provide a delightful twist. Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the sauce can also elevate the flavor complexity beautifully.

Ingredients

Panna Cotta Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 envelope (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
3 tablespoons cold water

Raspberry Sauce Ingredients

2 cups fresh raspberries
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Panna Cotta

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat while stirring until the sugar dissolves. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it blooms. Once the cream mixture is hot, remove it from heat, stir in the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract until fully dissolved. Pour the mixture into serving cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Make the Raspberry Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the fresh raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if you prefer a smooth sauce. Allow to cool.

Serve

Once the panna cotta has set, top each with the raspberry sauce. Garnish with fresh raspberries or mint leaves if desired.

Pro Tips

Try infusing the cream with different flavors like coffee or citrus for a unique twist on this classic dessert. If you want to make it more indulgent, serve with whipped cream on top.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an elegant presentation, spoon a generous helping of the raspberry sauce over each panna cotta right before serving. Adding a few whole fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings a fresh aroma to the dish. You might also want to serve it alongside shortbread cookies for crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy dessert.

If you want to be adventurous, consider infusing the panna cotta with additional flavors. Try steeping fresh herbs like basil or mint in the cream while heating it, then strain them out. You can also experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to give the panna cotta a unique twist. Moreover, adding a touch of citrus zest like lemon or orange can brighten the flavors and introduce a refreshing element.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about panna cotta is its ability to be made ahead of time. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. Just ensure that you cover the panna cotta with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent any fridge odors from affecting its flavor. When stored properly, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

If you have leftovers, you can freeze the panna cotta. However, note that the texture may change slightly once thawed, becoming softer and less set. To freeze, ensure it's in an airtight container, allowing for some headspace as it will expand. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. Serving it chilled further enhances the delightful creaminess while enjoying the raspberry sauce as a refreshing topping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries?

Absolutely! Strawberries, blueberries, or mango puree would work beautifully.

→ How long does panna cotta last in the fridge?

It can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

→ Is panna cotta gluten-free?

Yes, panna cotta is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any flour.

→ Can I make panna cotta in advance?

Yes! It's perfect for making ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld even better.