Dessert Recipe
Make Dessert Recipe in just 4h 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Vanilla Panna Cotta
Berry Compote
Garnish
Method
Vanilla Panna Cotta
- 1
Bloom gelatin
Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly over 2 tablespoons cold water in a small heatproof bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes to bloom while you heat the cream mixture.
- 2
Heat cream and milk
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is steaming but not boiling (small bubbles at the edge), about 5–7 minutes.
- 3
Dissolve gelatin
Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot cream mixture and whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved, about 1 minute. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- 4
Strain and chill
Optional: strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean measuring cup or bowl to remove any undissolved bits. Pour the panna cotta mixture into 4 small serving glasses or ramekins (roughly 1/2 cup each). Let cool to room temperature, then cover loosely and refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours or up to overnight.
Berry Compote
- 5
Cook berries
Place 1 cup mixed berries, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons water, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries begin to release their juices and the mixture simmers, about 4–6 minutes.
- 6
Mash and reduce
Use the back of a spoon or a potato masher to gently crush larger berries to your desired consistency. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until slightly thickened, about 2–3 more minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. The compote will thicken more as it cools.
- 7
Cool
If making ahead, transfer compote to a small container and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before spooning over panna cotta, or use chilled if you prefer a cold topping.
Assembly & Garnish
- 8
When the panna cotta has fully set (jiggle slightly in the center but firm), spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the berry compote on top of each panna cotta serving.
- 9
Garnish each with a pinch of grated lemon zest and a fresh mint leaf. Serve chilled.