Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis Recipe
If you’re looking to wow your guests or simply treat yourself to a dessert that feels like a hug in a dish, then Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis is your new best friend. This luscious, silky panna cotta melts effortlessly on your tongue, perfectly balanced by the bright, fresh raspberry coulis that adds a lively pop of color and flavor. It might seem fancy, but this recipe is elegantly simple, making it an inviting project whether it’s a special occasion or a midweek indulgence. The combination of creamy vanilla and tart raspberry is timeless, comforting, and downright irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this dessert just right comes down to a handful of essential ingredients that each play a starring role. From the rich cream that gives the panna cotta its signature silkiness to the fresh raspberries that bring a refreshing brightness, every element matters.
- 1 cup cream: Provides the rich, velvety base that makes the panna cotta so smooth and indulgent.
- ½ cup milk: Lightens the cream just enough to keep the texture perfectly delicate.
- ¼ cup sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the raspberry tartness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the panna cotta with fragrant warmth, making the flavor truly comforting.
- 1 tsp gelatin: The secret to setting the panna cotta gently without stiffness.
- ½ cup raspberries (for sauce): Fresh and vibrant, they turn into a beautifully bright raspberry coulis.
How to Make Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis
Step 1: Heat the Cream, Milk, and Sugar
Begin by gently heating your cream, milk, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar fully and avoid scalding the milk. This warm mixture is the foundation of your panna cotta, so patience here ensures even sweetness and a smooth texture.
Step 2: Add Gelatin and Vanilla
Once your cream mixture is hot but not boiling, sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the surface to let it bloom for a minute or so, then stir until completely dissolved. This step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth feel. Next, stir in the vanilla extract for that signature rich vanilla aroma that will fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Pour into Molds and Chill
Carefully pour the mixture into individual molds or ramekins. To keep your panna cotta silky smooth, try straining the mixture through a fine sieve before pouring. Then cover and refrigerate for at least four hours to allow it to set to the perfect soft wobble.
Step 4: Prepare the Raspberry Coulis
While the panna cotta chills, blend your fresh raspberries until smooth, then strain to remove the seeds for a sleek coulis. If needed, add a touch of sugar or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the tartness. This vibrant sauce is what sets the Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis apart visually and flavor-wise.
Step 5: Serve with Raspberry Coulis
Once your panna cotta has set, gently loosen it from the molds with a warm knife or by dipping the bottoms briefly in warm water. Plate each panna cotta and lavish the top with the bright, luscious raspberry coulis. Get ready for a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes.
How to Serve Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis
Garnishes
The simple beauty of Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis is enhanced with fresh garnishes. Add a few whole raspberries or a sprig of mint for an extra pop of freshness and color that feels like a finishing touch straight from a cafe’s dessert counter.
Side Dishes
This panna cotta is a wonderful finale to a rich meal but pairs beautifully with light sides like a crisp green salad or a fruity sorbet. These keep the palate fresh and create a delightful balance for a full dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get playful with presentation! Serve the panna cotta in clear glasses layered with raspberry coulis, or individual jars for a rustic touch. You can even add edible flowers on top or a decorative dusting of powdered sugar for that wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors and to keep the texture silky smooth.
Freezing
While panna cotta is best served fresh, you can freeze it if necessary. Place it in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and note that the texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled and not reheated. If it’s too firm from chilling, leaving it at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving helps soften it nicely without losing its great texture.
FAQs
Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?
Yes, agar-agar works as a vegetarian alternative but requires different preparation, usually boiling to activate. Be sure to follow the specific instructions on your agar-agar package for best results in your panna cotta.
What if I don’t have fresh raspberries?
Frozen raspberries can be used for the coulis; just thaw them first and strain thoroughly to remove seeds. However, fresh raspberries provide the brightest, freshest flavor for your coulis.
How do I know when the panna cotta is set?
After chilling for at least 4 hours, the panna cotta should have a gentle wobble but hold its shape when you move the mold. It shouldn’t feel liquid or too firm—just that perfect silky softness.
Can I make this panna cotta vegan?
Traditional panna cotta relies on dairy and gelatin, so to keep it vegan you’ll need to swap dairy for coconut cream or almond milk and use a plant-based gelling agent like agar-agar instead of gelatin.
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, plus 4 hours of chilling time to let the panna cotta set beautifully. It’s mostly hands-off once the mixture is in the fridge!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving Vanilla Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis a try. It’s elegant yet approachable, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo. The way that creamy, dreamy vanilla melds with the tangy raspberry sauce is a combination you’ll come back to again and again. So grab those simple ingredients and whip up a batch—you’ll be smiling with every spoonful!
