Raspberry Panna Cotta

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Creamy, silky-smooth, and crowned with a vibrant raspberry layer, Raspberry Panna Cotta is an elegant dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. This Italian classic is perfect for those moments when you want something sophisticated but simple to prepare. The balance between the rich vanilla base and the tangy raspberry topping creates a symphony of flavors in every spoonful.

This no-bake dessert sets in the fridge, making it ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or romantic evenings in. And with just a handful of ingredients, you can transform ordinary cream into a show-stopping dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Panna Cotta

• It looks absolutely stunning and restaurant-worthy.
• Super simple to prepare with minimal hands-on time.
• Perfect balance of creamy and fruity.
• Easily customizable with seasonal berries or flavored extracts.
• Great make-ahead dessert – chill it the night before and it’s ready to serve!

What Kind of Raspberries Should I Use?

Fresh raspberries are ideal for the topping because of their vibrant color and natural sweetness. However, if fresh isn’t an option, frozen raspberries work just as well for making the coulis (sauce layer). Make sure they are unsweetened and thawed completely. For garnish, fresh is best for a clean and polished look.

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Ingredients for the Raspberry Panna Cotta

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor balance in this Raspberry Panna Cotta.

• Heavy cream – The base of the panna cotta, giving it that silky, luxurious texture.
• Whole milk – Lightens the cream slightly while maintaining the dessert’s rich feel.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the base without overpowering the vanilla and raspberry flavors.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the creamy layer.
• Unflavored gelatin – Essential for setting the panna cotta into that perfect wobble.
• Fresh or frozen raspberries – Used to create a bright, tangy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
• Lemon juice – Enhances the raspberry flavor and adds a touch of acidity.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the raspberry topping without any graininess.

How To Make the Raspberry Panna Cotta

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

Sprinkle the gelatin over a small amount of cold milk in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the gelatin softens and blooms.

Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream, remaining milk, and granulated sugar. Stir gently until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Gelatin

Remove the cream mixture from the heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved, then add the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Divide the mixture into serving glasses or molds. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.

Step 5: Make the Raspberry Topping

In a small saucepan, cook raspberries, lemon juice, and powdered sugar over medium heat until the raspberries break down. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds and cool the sauce.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Once the panna cotta is set, spoon the cooled raspberry sauce over each portion. Top with fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Raspberry Panna Cotta

This Raspberry Panna Cotta is best served chilled, straight from the fridge. The creamy base pairs beautifully with the cool, fruity raspberry topping, making it refreshing and indulgent at the same time.

You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. Just be sure not to add the fresh raspberry garnish until right before serving for the freshest look.

This recipe serves 4 people generously, but you can easily double the ingredients if you’re hosting a larger gathering.

What to Serve With Raspberry Panna Cotta?

H3: Shortbread Cookies

The buttery crunch of shortbread complements the soft texture of panna cotta.

H3: Sparkling Wine

A chilled glass of Prosecco or Moscato adds a festive and fruity touch.

H3: Lemon Zest or Citrus Peel

A light grating of lemon or orange peel brightens the dessert beautifully.

H3: Dark Chocolate Shavings

Add a rich contrast with bittersweet chocolate shavings on top.

H3: Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Double down on the creamy indulgence with a scoop of ice cream on the side.

H3: Mixed Berry Compote

Warm berries with a hint of cinnamon take this dessert to another level.

H3: Fresh Mint Leaves

A few mint leaves offer a clean, refreshing finish to each bite.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make panna cotta without gelatin?
Yes, you can substitute gelatin with agar-agar if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative. Be sure to follow agar-specific instructions, as the setting process differs slightly.

Why is my panna cotta not setting properly?
This usually happens if the gelatin wasn’t fully bloomed or dissolved. Also, make sure not to boil the cream mixture, as high heat can reduce gelatin’s setting power.

Can I use other fruits besides raspberries?
Absolutely! Strawberries, blueberries, mangoes, or even passion fruit make excellent toppings. Just adjust the sweetness to taste.

How long does panna cotta last in the fridge?
When properly covered and stored in the refrigerator, panna cotta can last up to 3-4 days. Always add fresh toppings just before serving.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add liqueur or leave it out? Did you try chocolate on top?
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Conclusion

Raspberry Panna Cotta is one of those desserts that looks effortlessly elegant but takes minimal time to create. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this dessert delivers every single time. With its creamy texture, burst of berry flavor, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become one of your go-to dessert recipes.

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