Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries

Name: Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 2 1/2 teaspoons gelatin powder; 3 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Daily Kitchen

I absolutely adore making Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries because it's such a delicate and creamy dessert that impresses every time. The combination of rich vanilla flavors with the tartness of fresh raspberries creates a beautifully balanced treat. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, requiring only a few basic ingredients. Join me in creating this delightful dessert that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!

Created by

Elara Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-08T03:10:00.739Z

When I first experimented with this Vanilla Panna Cotta, my goal was to create a dessert that was both elegant and easy to make. I discovered that heating the cream gently infused the vanilla bean's flavor beautifully, resulting in a rich, aromatic base. The key is to not rush the cooling process; allowing it to set properly gives that signature silky texture that makes panna cotta so beloved.

I love serving it with fresh raspberries, as their tartness cuts through the creaminess perfectly. Not only does it visually elevate the dish, but the raspberry coulis adds another layer of flavor that simply tantalizes the taste buds.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Luxuriously creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Elegant dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion
Tart raspberries provide a beautiful contrast to the sweet panna cotta

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delectable Vanilla Panna Cotta.

For the Panna Cotta

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
2 1/2 teaspoons gelatin powder
3 tablespoons cold water

For the Raspberry Sauce

1 cup fresh raspberries
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure you have everything ready before starting the recipe!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberries.

Sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to soften.

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the softened gelatin until completely dissolved. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Divide the mixture evenly among serving molds or cups. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.

In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the raspberries break down. Strain the sauce to remove seeds.

Once the panna cotta is set, gently unmold onto plates and drizzle with raspberry sauce before serving. Enjoy!

Now you’re ready to serve this exquisite dessert!

Exploring Flavor Variations

While the classic vanilla flavor is delightful, consider experimenting with other flavorings to give your panna cotta a unique twist. Extracts such as almond or coconut can add a lovely aroma, while infusing the cream with herbs like basil or mint during heating can create a refreshing note. Just remember to strain the mixture thoroughly to remove any solid pieces before pouring it into molds.

You can also enhance the raspberry sauce by incorporating other fruits like strawberries or blueberries, or by adding herbs for a seasonal touch. A few sprigs of mint mixed in with the raspberries during the cooking process can brighten up the sauce, adding complexity to the dessert.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This panna cotta recipe is easily scalable, allowing you to prepare just the right amount for your gathering. If you wish to double the recipe for larger events, simply double the ingredients proportionally, ensuring you have sufficient molds or ramekins. Conversely, if you're looking for a smaller batch, you can halve the quantities while keeping the same steps intact.

For any variation in portions, adjust the refrigeration time slightly. Smaller portions may set faster, while larger molds may take a bit longer. Always check the firmness by gently tapping the mold; it should jiggle slightly but not appear liquid. This small adjustment will help ensure your panna cotta is perfectly set every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make panna cotta in advance?

Absolutely! Panna cotta can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ 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 correct measurements.

→ Is it possible to double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make more servings. Just ensure you have larger molds.

→ How do I unmold panna cotta?

To unmold, dip the bottom of each mold briefly in warm water to loosen, then invert onto a plate.