A silky, restaurant-style panna cotta with a vibrant blueberry compote, perfect for make-ahead elegance.
Author:leogrant
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:4 hr 35 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:No Bake
Cuisine:Italian-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup cold water
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped, or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
1 1/2 cups 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.
Make the panna cotta base: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, 1/2 cup sugar, and the vanilla bean seeds and pod (if using). Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Do not boil. Remove from heat. If using a vanilla bean pod, let it steep for 15 minutes, then remove the 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 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 8-10 minutes. Let cool completely.
Serve: Spoon the cooled blueberry compote over the set panna cotta.
Notes
For a smoother set, ensure your gelatin is fully dissolved.
Unmold by dipping the bottom of the ramekin in hot water for a few seconds, then inverting onto a serving plate.
This dessert is best made the day before serving.
Garnish with fresh mint or a few extra blueberries for presentation.