A silky, restaurant-style panna cotta infused with vanilla bean, topped with a vibrant blueberry compote. This make-ahead dessert is perfect for elegant dinner parties.
Author:ellievance
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:4 hr 30 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:No Bake
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin powder
1/4 cup cold water
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped, or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for compote)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for compote)
Instructions
Bloom the gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until softened.
Prepare the panna cotta base: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, 1/2 cup sugar, vanilla bean seeds and pod (if using), and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Do not boil. Remove from heat. If using vanilla extract, stir it in now. Remove vanilla pod.
Incorporate gelatin: Whisk the bloomed gelatin into the warm cream mixture until fully dissolved.
Strain and chill: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any solids. Pour into individual ramekins or glasses. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Make the blueberry compote: In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until blueberries break down and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool completely.
Serve: Spoon the cooled blueberry compote over the set panna cotta before serving.
Notes
For a smoother set, ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved in the warm cream.
To unmold, briefly dip the bottom of the ramekin in hot water, then invert onto a serving plate.
This dessert can be made up to 2 days in advance. Prepare the compote separately and store in the refrigerator.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra flair.