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Panna Cotta With Blueberries and Fresh Fruit Recipe

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3.8 from 87 reviews

A creamy and elegant Panna Cotta dessert infused with vanilla and lemon zest, featuring fresh blueberries folded into the mixture and served with chopped pineapple and assorted berries for a refreshing finish. This no-bake dessert sets quickly thanks to gelatin and offers a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness.

  • Total Time: 21 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Gelatin Mixture

  • 1 cup milk
  • 5 teaspoons unflavored gelatin

Cream Mixture

  • 16 oz. (2 cups) sour cream
  • 12 oz. (1 1/2 cups) heavy cream
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

Fruits

  • 1 pint blueberries
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pineapple (for serving ONLY)
  • Other fruit for garnish: strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, chopped peaches, etc.

Instructions

  1. Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over the milk and stir gently. Allow the mixture to stand for 5 minutes so the gelatin softens and blooms, which is essential for proper setting.
  2. Mix the Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment or a hand mixer, start mixing on low speed and gradually increase to high until the mixture becomes thick and well combined.
  3. Heat Gelatin Mixture: Once the gelatin has bloomed, warm the milk and gelatin mixture either in the microwave for about 1 minute or on very low heat in a small saucepan just until the gelatin dissolves completely—avoid boiling. Then, set aside to cool slightly.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the warmed gelatin mixture into the cream mixture and mix thoroughly to combine. Gently fold in half of the blueberries, reserving the rest for garnish. Avoid adding the pineapple to this mixture as it can prevent the dessert from setting.
  5. Mold the Panna Cotta: Pour the combined mixture into a mold, such as a bread pan, bundt pan, deep dish, or individual molds according to preference.
  6. Refrigerate to Set: Place the mold in the refrigerator and chill for 1 to 2 hours, or until the panna cotta is firmly set. For best results, prepare the dessert the night before serving.
  7. Unmold the Dessert: To release, dip the bottom of the mold in hot water for about 30 seconds, then invert carefully onto a serving plate. The panna cotta should slide out smoothly.
  8. Serve with Fruits: Garnish the panna cotta with the reserved blueberries, chopped pineapple, and any other berries or fruits you prefer for a fresh and colorful presentation.

Notes

  • Do not add pineapple to the gelatin mixture or the panna cotta may not set properly due to enzymes that break down gelatin.
  • Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved and the mixture is not boiling when heating to avoid grainy texture.
  • This dessert sets quickly but chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
  • You can customize the garnish with a variety of fresh fruits based on seasonal availability.
  • Use a mold with smooth sides for easier unmolding; warm water helps release the panna cotta.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian