Raspberry Panna Cotta Dessert Recipe

Last Updated on January 5, 2023 by Ellen Christian

Make-ahead desserts like this Raspberry Panna Cotta Dessert recipe are an absolute must-have in the summer. Try my recipe today.

I often make recipes in the morning when the house is cool so that at night after work, all I need to do is to serve them. 

Raspberry Panna Cotta Dessert

Raspberry Panna Cotta is an Italian dessert that has been featured on shows like Gordon Ramsay and the BBC Channel. Panna Cotta translates from Italian to cold Italian custard.

It’s typically topped with some sort of fruit sauce. I’ve seen everything from fig sauce to berry and mango. 

Since we have so many pick-your-own berry farms in my area, I generally go with berry desserts. Have you tried my Strawberry Apple Sonker recipe? Or, you might like my Citrus Espuma on Fresh Strawberries.

Of course, this Raspberry Panna Cotta is easy enough to enjoy at any time. But, it looks like you spent hours in the kitchen when it’s finished. Be sure to display it in a panna cotta glass so your guests can admire the final recipe. 

Some people choose to make their panna cotta in a mold. And, you can do that if you like. I always worry about them not coming out of the mold perfectly which would ruin the presentation. But, these panna cotta molds would work well if you want to try it.

What does Panna Cotta taste like?

This Raspberry Panna Cotta is a smooth, creamy dessert similar to custard. Because this recipe uses vanilla, it tastes like vanilla. You could easily make a chocolate panna cotta but using chocolate.

Or, why not substitute a different type of berry topping instead of raspberries for a different taste.

More Panna Cotta Toppings

If you want a flavor other than Raspberry Panna Cotta, you can change it up a bit. There are lots of things that you can add to your Panna Cotta besides berries:

• Shaved chocolate
• Chopped mango
• Homemade whipped cream
• Sliced peaches

How can I make this low carb?

This Raspberry Panna Cotta recipe uses traditional granulated white sugar. If you’re concerned about the sugar or cab content, you can experiment with using stevia. 

How to make Raspberry Panna Cotta

1. Start by hydrating 4 sheets of gelatin. Do so by placing them in the water for 5 minutes.
2. Afterward, drain the gelatin sheets and melt them (sheets only) in the microwave for 30 seconds.
3. In a saucepan, add the cream, sugar, and vanilla. In medium heat, slowly allow the mixture to boil, while constantly whisking. Make sure the sugar is dissolved.
4. Remove from the heat and stir in the melted gelatin. Keep whisking until everything is combined.
5. Pour the mixture into glasses or other bowls to serve, and put the raspberry panna cotta in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours for the panna cotta to gain consistency.
6. Once the panna cotta has settled, you can get creative with the toppings. I love putting strawberry jam and fresh berries, but you can go with whatever you prefer.

You can make this Raspberry Panna Cotta dessert recipe three days ahead of time. Just don’t top it with the raspberries or other toppings until right before you serve it. That way it will taste fresh. 

Why is my panna cotta grainy?

If your panna cotta has a grainy texture, you have not dissolved the gelatin completely. Be sure that you don’t have the milk too hot or too cold when you add the gelatin to it.

Can I freeze panna cotta?

Yes, you definitely can freeze this Raspberry Panna Cotta. You will want to freeze it in plastic cups, not glass to prevent breakage.  When you want to thaw it to eat, just let it thaw in the refrigerator and not on the countertop. It should be thawed completely overnight. 

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