This Vanilla Panna Cotta with Berries is a luxurious and creamy dessert that is both simple to make and a crowd-pleaser. The smooth panna cotta is infused with a rich vanilla flavor and topped with fresh, vibrant berries for a delightful contrast. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge in something sweet yet refined.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy and Decadent: The combination of heavy cream and vanilla bean creates an irresistibly smooth and creamy texture.
- Easy to Make: While it requires a little time to chill, the prep is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced techniques.
- Customizable: You can top it with any seasonal fruits, making it versatile throughout the year.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 2 tsp vanilla extract)
- 1 packet powdered gelatin (about 1 tbsp)
- 3 tbsp cold water
- Mixed berries, for topping (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Directions:
Step 1: Heat the Cream Mixture
- In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and the seeds from the vanilla bean (or vanilla extract).
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. Bring it to a gentle simmer but avoid letting it boil.
Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom and absorb the water.
Step 3: Combine Gelatin with Cream
- Once the cream mixture is heated and the sugar is dissolved, remove the vanilla bean pod from the saucepan.
- Whisk in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved, and the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Pour into Ramekins
- Pour the panna cotta mixture into ramekins or small serving glasses.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully set.
Step 5: Serve
- Before serving, top each panna cotta with fresh mixed berries for a refreshing burst of flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Tips:
- Use Fresh Vanilla: If possible, use a vanilla bean for the most authentic flavor. If you don’t have one, vanilla extract works as a substitute.
- Chill Overnight: For the best results, refrigerate overnight to ensure a firmer set.
- Berry Varieties: Mix and match different berries to add variety. Try a combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful topping.
Conclusion:
This Vanilla Panna Cotta with Berries is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, paired with fresh, juicy berries, makes for an elegant and simple treat that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, this dessert will make any occasion feel special.
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Vanilla Panna Cotta with Berries
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A smooth and creamy vanilla panna cotta topped with fresh mixed berries, this classic Italian dessert is simple to prepare and a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 1 packet powdered gelatin
- 3 tbsp cold water
- Mixed berries, for topping
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla bean over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved.
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
- Remove the vanilla bean from the cream mixture and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into ramekins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Top with mixed berries before serving.
Notes
- You can use other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for topping.
- For a stronger vanilla flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract in addition to the vanilla bean.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes