30 Minute No Bake Dessert: Panna Cotta with Mixed Berry Compote

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Elegant, creamy, and surprisingly easy to make — this Panna Cotta with Mixed Berry Compote is the kind of dessert that looks like it came from a high-end restaurant, but comes together in just 30 minutes with zero baking involved. It’s the ultimate no-fuss treat that delivers a luxurious texture with a tangy, fruity finish. Perfect for a dinner party or when you want to treat yourself to something special without turning on the oven.

Each silky spoonful melts in your mouth, balanced beautifully with the tart sweetness of the berry compote layered on top. This dessert isn’t just about taste — it’s a visual stunner too, with vibrant berries creating a jewel-like topping that makes every glass feel like a little celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Panna Cotta with Mixed Berry Compote

• It’s a no bake dessert that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
• It looks impressive but is incredibly easy to make.
• The texture is smooth, creamy, and just the right amount of wobbly.
• The berry topping adds freshness and color.
• It can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for hosting.

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What Kind of Berries Should I Use for the Compote?

The beauty of this dessert is its flexibility. You can use fresh or frozen berries depending on the season or your preference. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries all work beautifully — either as a single type or in a colorful mix. If using frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them before making the compote. Just be sure to taste and adjust sugar levels as needed since some berries can be more tart than others.

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Ingredients for the Panna Cotta with Mixed Berry Compote

To achieve the perfect balance of creaminess and fruitiness, each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final result.

• Heavy cream – The base of the panna cotta, giving it a rich and creamy texture.
• Whole milk – Helps to lighten the cream a bit for a smooth consistency without being too heavy.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens both the panna cotta and the berry compote.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the creamy base.
• Unflavored gelatin powder – Essential for setting the panna cotta to the perfect wobble.
• Fresh or frozen mixed berries – The heart of the compote, bringing bold color and tartness.
• Lemon juice – Enhances the brightness of the berries and balances sweetness.
• Mint leaves (optional) – For garnish and a fresh touch on top.

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How To Make the Panna Cotta with Mixed Berry Compote

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

Sprinkle the gelatin over cold milk in a small bowl and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. This allows the gelatin to absorb the liquid and swell, which is key for proper dissolving.

Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and sugar. Heat gently over medium heat until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is warm, but not boiling.

Step 3: Combine Gelatin and Cream

Remove the warm cream from the heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it’s completely dissolved. Then add the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Pour the mixture into small serving glasses or ramekins. Let them cool at room temperature for a few minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.

Step 5: Make the Mixed Berry Compote

In a saucepan, combine your berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat until the berries break down slightly and form a syrupy sauce. Let it cool to room temperature.

Step 6: Top and Serve

Spoon the berry compote over the set panna cotta just before serving. Garnish with extra berries and mint leaves if desired.

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Serving and Storing Your Panna Cotta with Mixed Berry Compote

This delightful dessert serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for dinner parties, as it needs to be chilled for a few hours or even overnight. Once set, cover each panna cotta with plastic wrap and keep them refrigerated. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Avoid topping with the berry compote until just before serving for the best texture and presentation. The compote can be stored separately in the fridge in an airtight container.

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What to Serve With Panna Cotta with Mixed Berry Compote?

Fresh Baked Shortbread Cookies

Their buttery crunch makes the perfect contrast to the creamy panna cotta.

A Glass of Sparkling Wine

Something bubbly adds elegance and enhances the fruity flavors of the compote.

Espresso or Coffee

A strong cup of espresso balances the sweetness and richness of the dessert.

Lemon Sorbet

A bright, tart palate cleanser that refreshes the taste buds between bites.

Chocolate Shavings or Sauce

For an indulgent twist, drizzle dark chocolate or top with curls.

Toasted Nuts

Add texture with some chopped toasted almonds or pistachios.

Fresh Mint Tea

A gentle pairing that complements the freshness of the berries.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make panna cotta in advance?

Absolutely! Panna cotta is ideal for making ahead. You can prepare it up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the berry compote right before serving to maintain a fresh look and flavor.

What if I don’t have gelatin?

If you don’t have gelatin, you can use agar agar as a vegetarian alternative. Just keep in mind that agar sets firmer than gelatin, so the texture might be slightly different.

Can I use dairy-free milk or cream?

Yes, you can swap dairy with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative. Make sure the substitution has a rich consistency to achieve that signature panna cotta texture.

How do I know when panna cotta is set?

It should jiggle slightly when you shake the glass, but not be liquid. Typically, it takes about 2–4 hours in the refrigerator to fully set.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with fresh berries or frozen? Did you try a drizzle of honey or a touch of liqueur in the compote?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other create even better desserts.

Check out more of my daily recipes on Pinterest!

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Conclusion

Panna Cotta with Mixed Berry Compote is the kind of dessert that feels like a celebration in a cup — elegant, flavorful, and beautifully simple. It’s proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something memorable. With a luscious creamy base and a jewel-toned berry topping, it’s the perfect sweet ending to any meal. Whether for a dinner party or a solo indulgence, this no bake treat will quickly become a go-to favorite in your dessert rotation.

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