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Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Berry Compote

This Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Berry Compote is creamy, luscious, and elegantly simple, topped with a vibrant, tangy berry compote.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Berry, Easy, Make Ahead, Panna Cotta, Vanilla
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or seeds from 1 vanilla bean
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
  • 3 tablespoons cold water

For the Berry Compote:

  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Bloom the Gelatin

  • Pour 3 tablespoons of cold water into a small bowl and sprinkle the 2 1/2 teaspoons of unflavored gelatin over the surface. Let it sit and soften for about 5 to 10 minutes.

Heat the Cream Mixture

  • In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or seeds from one vanilla bean. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves and mixture just starts to steam. Do not boil.

Incorporate the Gelatin

  • Remove the cream mixture from heat. Add the bloomed gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved.

Pour and Chill

  • Pour the panna cotta mixture into ramekins or glasses. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.

Prepare the Berry Compote

  • In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup mixed berries, 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until berries soften and mixture thickens. Stir occasionally and let cool to room temperature.

Serve

  • Once panna cotta is firm, spoon the berry compote on top. Garnish with fresh berries or mint if desired. Serve chilled.

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Small ramekins or glasses
  • Saucepan or skillet

Notes

  • Bloom gelatin properly to ensure a smooth, lump-free panna cotta.
  • Make the dessert ahead and chill overnight for best texture and ease.
  • Customize the berry compote with different fruits or add spices like cinnamon for variety.