Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Berry Compote is a smooth and creamy Italian dessert that feels like a soft, sweet cloud on your tongue. The panna cotta is silky and infused with real vanilla beans, giving it a gentle, comforting flavor. On top, the berry compote adds a bright, fruity touch with a mix of sweet and slightly tart berries that balance the richness perfectly.
I love making this dessert because it feels special but is really easy to put together. The vanilla beans make a big difference, and I always try to use fresh ones if I can. The berry compote can be made ahead, which is great when you’re planning a dinner but want a simple dessert. I also like stirring in a little lemon juice into the berries to brighten everything up—just a small trick I picked up along the way.
Serving this panna cotta chilled in small glasses makes it feel elegant and inviting. I especially enjoy it after a big meal because it’s light yet satisfying. Plus, the contrast between the creamy vanilla base and the fruity topping makes every spoonful exciting. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a treat, but you don’t have to save it for a special occasion—you can make it any time you want a little homemade happiness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Heavy Cream & Milk: These create the creamy base of panna cotta. Use whole milk for richness; for a lighter version, swap half the cream with milk. Coconut cream can work if you want a dairy-free option but expect a slight flavor change.
Vanilla Bean: Real vanilla beans add a lovely natural flavor and those little black specks look pretty too. If you don’t have fresh beans, vanilla extract is a good substitute—just add it after heating so you don’t lose the flavor.
Gelatin: This is the ingredient that sets the panna cotta. Make sure to bloom it in cold water before adding to avoid clumps. You can substitute gelatin with agar-agar for a vegetarian option, but follow the package since it sets differently.
Mixed Berries: Fresh or frozen berries both work for the compote. I like using a mix of raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries for a good balance of sweet and tart. If berries aren’t available, cherries or stone fruits can be nice alternatives.
How Do I Get a Smooth, Creamy Panna Cotta Without Lumps?
Getting that perfect silky texture means careful handling of the gelatin and cream mixture. Here’s how you do it:
- Bloom the gelatin in cold water first so it hydrates fully and doesn’t clump.
- Heat the cream and milk slowly, just until hot and sugar dissolves—don’t let it boil.
- Remove the vanilla bean pod to avoid bitterness.
- Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot cream and stir gently but thoroughly until completely melted.
- Cool the mixture a bit before pouring into molds to prevent a skin from forming on top.
Patience during these steps helps the panna cotta set smoothly with a silky bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small bowl – For blooming the gelatin so it dissolves smoothly, preventing lumps.
- Medium saucepan – To gently heat the cream, milk, and sugar without boiling.
- Knife and spoon – For splitting the vanilla bean and scraping seeds, which adds flavor and pretty specks.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To measure ingredients accurately for perfect texture.
- Ramekins or small molds – To pour the panna cotta into and set in the fridge, creating individual servings.
- Whisk or spatula – To stir everything smoothly and evenly combined.
- Serving plates or dishes – For inverting and presenting the finished panna cotta with berry topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap vanilla with citrus zest (like orange or lemon) to add a bright, fresh flavor. Use it along with or instead of vanilla.
- Mix in liqueurs such as Grand Marnier or Chambord into the berry compote for an added boozy sweetness that pairs well with the berries.
- Use different fruits like peaches, mango, or cherries in the compote, depending on what’s in season or your favorite flavors.
- Top with crushed cookies, nuts, or a drizzle of honey or syrup for extra texture and sweetness.
How to Make Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Berry Compote?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Panna Cotta:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 vanilla bean (split lengthwise and seeds scraped) or 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder
- 3 tablespoons cold water
For the Berry Compote:
- 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen; raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 4 hours of chilling time to let the panna cotta set properly. The berry compote takes about 10 minutes to cook and should be cooled before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bloom the Gelatin:
Sprinkle the gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes so it softens and becomes gel-like.
2. Heat the Cream Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and both the seeds and pod of the vanilla bean (or vanilla extract if using). Warm the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and it’s hot but not boiling. Remove the vanilla bean pod.
3. Add Gelatin and Mix:
Stir the bloomed gelatin into the hot cream mixture until completely dissolved. Then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Chill the Panna Cotta:
Pour the mixture into ramekins or molds. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until the panna cotta is set and firm.
5. Make the Berry Compote:
In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract if desired, and let cool to room temperature.
6. Serve:
Once the panna cotta has set, gently run a knife around the edges to loosen. Invert onto serving plates. Spoon the berry compote over and around each panna cotta before serving. Enjoy!
Can I Use Gelatin Sheets Instead of Powder?
Yes! Use about 3 sheets of gelatin for this recipe. Soak them in cold water for 5-10 minutes, then gently melt the softened sheets into the warm cream mixture just like you would with powdered gelatin.
Can I Prepare the Panna Cotta Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make the panna cotta up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Add the berry compote just before serving for the freshest flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Panna Cotta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the berry compote separate to maintain its texture and freshness.
Can I Use Frozen Berries for the Compote?
Yes, frozen berries work well. Just thaw them before cooking the compote, or cook them directly from frozen but expect a slightly longer cooking time to thicken the sauce.