Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries

Name: Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon gelatin; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I absolutely love making Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries for special occasions. This dessert never fails to impress, with its creamy texture and beautiful presentation. The subtle vanilla flavor combined with the tartness of fresh raspberries creates a delightful balance that is hard to resist. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to whip up! I enjoy serving it chilled after a hearty meal, making it the perfect ending to any dinner party. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-style masterpiece at home.

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:05:34.733Z

When I first tried my hand at making Vanilla Panna Cotta, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such an elegant dessert. Using fresh vanilla beans adds an incredible depth of flavor that truly elevates the dish. I found that letting it chill for a couple of hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in that luxurious texture that melts in your mouth.

One of my favorite tips is to top the panna cotta with a warm raspberry sauce. The contrasting temperatures and textures really enhance the dessert experience. I absolutely recommend making this dessert ahead of time so you can spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor complemented by tart raspberries
Silky-smooth texture that delights the palate
Impressive yet easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Perfecting the Panna Cotta Texture

Achieving the ideal texture for Vanilla Panna Cotta requires a careful balance of ingredients, particularly the gelatin. Using the right amount is crucial; too little will result in a liquid that won't hold its shape, while too much can lead to a rubbery consistency. Always ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before pouring into ramekins to prevent any lumps. Visual cues include a glossy finish when the cream mixture is ready, indicating that it is well combined and heated just enough to activate the gelatin.

For a consistently smooth texture, I recommend straining the cream mixture through a fine mesh sieve before pouring it into the ramekins. This step eliminates any undissolved gelatin particles or other lumps that may have formed during heating. Remember, it’s the silkiness of the panna cotta that will leave your guests wowed; a little extra care in this step will elevate your dessert significantly.

Raspberry Topping Variations

While fresh raspberries bring vibrancy to this dessert, feel free to experiment with other fruits for variation. Consider using strawberries, blueberries, or even a mix of fruits for a colorful topping. Moreover, if you want a sweeter sauce, increase the sugar slightly, adjusting to your preference. Pureeing the fruit instead of mashing gives a smoother topping, which could be an appealing option for those who prefer a less chunky consistency.

You might also explore using flavored liqueurs, such as raspberry or elderflower, in the fruit sauce to boost complexity. Simply add a tablespoon or two during the cooking process for a delightful twist. If you're feeling adventurous, infusing the cream mixture with herbs like mint or basil can introduce an unexpected yet harmonious flavor alongside the raspberry sauce.

Serving and Storage Tips

Panna Cotta is best served chilled, so plan to prepare it at least 2 hours in advance, allowing it ample time to set in the fridge. If you're making it ahead of time, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, when preparing for a larger event, I recommend setting out the panna cotta for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance its creaminess. The slight warm-up can help the panna cotta release from its ramekin more easily.

When it comes to garnishing, fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness to your presenting plates. Make the raspberry topping just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and texture. If you have leftovers, I suggest covering them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating, as exposure to air can cause the panna cotta to develop a film.

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon gelatin
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For the Raspberry Topping

1 cup fresh raspberries
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Steps to Make Vanilla Panna Cotta

Prepare the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water. Let it bloom for about 5 minutes while you prepare the cream mixture.

Heat the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until just simmering, then remove from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract until fully dissolved.

Chill the Panna Cotta

Pour the mixture into small ramekins or cups. Allow them to cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.

Make the Raspberry Topping

In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, gently mashing the raspberries until you have a chunky sauce. Let it cool.

Serve

Once the panna cotta is set, run a knife around the edge of the ramekins to loosen. Invert each panna cotta onto a plate and top with the raspberry sauce. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an added touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for color and crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is quite adaptable, allowing for several ingredient swaps. For a lighter version, you can replace half of the heavy cream with a lower-fat substitute like half-and-half without sacrificing too much creaminess. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut cream works beautifully. It adds a unique flavor that pairs well with the raspberries, though be mindful that it may alter the overall taste profile of the panna cotta.

For those seeking a sugar-free or reduced-sugar dessert, consider using alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Measure according to the conversion guidelines, as these substitutes can vary significantly in sweetness. This way, you can still enjoy the indulgent flavors of panna cotta while accommodating dietary needs.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling the Vanilla Panna Cotta recipe is straightforward. If you want to make more servings, simply double or triple the ingredient quantities, keeping the same ratios. However, keep in mind that you'll need to adjust the chilling time accordingly—larger batches may take slightly longer to set. I recommend using larger ramekins if you're scaling up significantly, as they hold more volume and will maintain texture without becoming overcooked.

Conversely, for a smaller batch, this recipe can easily be halved. Just select appropriate-sized ramekins to ensure they set correctly without an extended chill time. Making mini panna cottas in small shot glasses can also be a fun, creative way to serve them at parties or events, making them easily transportable and visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use something other than gelatin?

Yes, you can substitute gelatin with agar-agar for a plant-based option. Adjust the quantity according to the package instructions.

→ How long will panna cotta last in the fridge?

The panna cotta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it's covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors.

→ Can I make this dessert a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to develop even more, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

→ What can I use instead of raspberries?

You can use strawberries, blueberries, or even a mix of summer fruits for a delightful topping!