Vanilla Panna Cotta with Berry Sauce

Elegant, creamy, and surprisingly easy to make — Vanilla Panna Cotta is the perfect no-bake dessert for any occasion. Paired with a vibrant berry sauce, it’s a delightful treat that balances smooth richness with fruity freshness. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this recipe never fails to impress.

Ingredients:

For the panna cotta:

2 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin powder
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the berry sauce:

1 ½ cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen: raspberries, strawberries, blueberries)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Preparation:

Bloom the gelatin:
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the milk and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to bloom.
Heat the cream mixture:
In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and sugar. Heat gently over medium heat until sugar is dissolved and the mixture is hot (but not boiling).
Add gelatin and vanilla:
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Pour into molds:
Pour the mixture into serving glasses, ramekins, or molds. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
Make the berry sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the berries soften. If using, stir in cornstarch mixed with a teaspoon of water and cook until thickened. Let cool completely.
Serve:
Top each panna cotta with a spoonful of berry sauce just before serving. Garnish with fresh berries or mint for an extra touch.