Berry Panna Cotta: The Perfect Holiday Dessert
When it comes to holiday desserts, nothing quite compares to the elegance of a berry panna cotta. This creamy, melt-in-your-mouth treat pairs a smooth vanilla base with a vibrant, fruity topping of fresh berries and luscious red sauce. It’s a dessert that’s not only delicious but also stunningly beautiful, perfect for impressing your guests.
Ingredients
For the Panna Cotta Base:
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin
3 tbsp cold water
For the Berry Sauce:
1 cup fresh raspberries
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup fresh blackberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Prep and Cook Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: ~6 hours 30 minutes
Instructions
Prepare the Panna Cotta Base:
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Add the bloomed gelatin and whisk until fully dissolved.
Divide the mixture into serving glasses or ramekins. Allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or until set.
Make the Berry Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the berries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly (about 8-10 minutes).
Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Assemble and Serve:
Once the panna cotta is fully set, spoon the cooled berry sauce over each serving. Garnish with additional fresh berries for extra color and flavor.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Panna Cotta
Even Texture: Ensure the gelatin fully dissolves by whisking it into the hot cream mixture. Strain the mixture before pouring it into ramekins for extra smoothness.
Chill Time: Be patient and let the panna cotta set for at least 4 hours for the perfect, wobbly texture.
Customizable Flavors: Swap vanilla extract for almond or coconut extract for a unique twist.
Presentation: Use clear glasses or molds to show off the layers of creamy panna cotta and vibrant berry sauce.
