Raspberry Panna Cotta Hearts

Name: Raspberry Panna Cotta Hearts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin; 2 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Raspberry Panna Cotta Hearts! The combination of the creamy panna cotta and the tart raspberry flavor creates a delightful dessert that is both elegant and simple to prepare. Each heart-shaped portion brings a touch of sophistication to any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a festive gathering. My favorite part is how the fresh raspberries on top add a beautiful pop of color and a burst of flavor that elevates this dish into something truly special.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:16:09.017Z

When I first decided to make these Raspberry Panna Cotta Hearts, I wanted to impress my friends with something that looked complicated but was actually effortless. To my surprise, the delicate balance of flavors and textures turned out beautifully, making it a beloved recipe in my dessert repertoire.

The secret to achieving that perfect creamy texture lies in using fresh cream and allowing the gelatin to bloom properly before combining it. I also discovered that serving them in heart shapes adds a delightful charm, making them ideal for celebrating any occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy panna cotta that melts in your mouth
Vibrant raspberry topping for a fresh burst of flavor
Elegant heart shape makes it perfect for special occasions

      

Understanding Panna Cotta

Panna cotta, meaning 'cooked cream' in Italian, is a silky dessert that relies on the delicate balance of cream and gelatin. The key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture is heating the cream mixture just enough to dissolve the sugar without boiling it. This prevents the cream from curdling, ensuring a smooth and creamy base. The addition of vanilla extract not only enhances the flavor but also complements the tartness of the raspberry topping beautifully.

Gelatin is essential for setting the panna cotta. For best results, use high-quality unflavored gelatin that blooms properly. This involves soaking the gelatin in cold water until it swells and becomes spongy. Not allowing the gelatin to bloom sufficiently can result in a panna cotta that doesn’t set fully, so be patient during this step. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, agar-agar can be used, but the ratios differ. Therefore, it’s crucial to follow the specific instructions for substitution.

Perfecting the Raspberry Topping

The raspberry topping not only adds vibrant color but also brings a refreshing tartness that brightens each bite of panna cotta. When preparing the topping, allow the raspberries to macerate with sugar and lemon juice for about 10 minutes. This process releases their natural juices and creates a sauce-like consistency that clings beautifully to the panna cotta. If fresh raspberries are unavailable, frozen ones can be used; just ensure they are thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of raspberry liqueur or a hint of mint into the raspberry mixture. This can enhance the overall depth of flavor while still keeping the dessert light and summery. Just be mindful not to overpower the delicate panna cotta with too many additional flavors. Balance is key!

Ingredients

Panna Cotta

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
2 tablespoons cold water

Raspberry Topping

1 cup fresh raspberries
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to prepare the raspberry topping while the panna cotta sets for the best experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes.

Heat the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium-low heat until the mixture is warm, but do not boil.

Combine Gelatin

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved.

Mold the Panna Cotta

Pour the mixture into heart-shaped molds and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

Prepare the Raspberry Topping

In a bowl, combine fresh raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes to macerate.

Serve

Once the panna cotta is set, gently unmold the hearts and top with the raspberry mixture before serving.

Enjoy your beautiful and delicious Raspberry Panna Cotta Hearts!

Pro Tips

Use fresh raspberries for the best flavor, and for a different twist, you can infuse the cream with lemon zest or mint for an added dimension.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once prepared, panna cotta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for gatherings. To keep the panna cotta from sticking to the mold, lightly grease the molds with a neutral oil before pouring in the mixture. This will ensure easy unmolding. If serving for a special occasion, garnish with additional whole raspberries and a sprinkle of mint leaves to elevate the presentation.

When it comes to serving, you might want to consider pairing these panna cotta hearts with a light dessert wine or a refreshing herbal tea. The subtle sweetness of the panna cotta and the tart raspberry topping make a delightful contrast with slightly bitter or aromatic drinks, adding an extra layer to your dessert experience.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your panna cotta flavors! For instance, you can infuse the cream with other extracts such as almond or citrus zests. Infusing the cream with herbs like basil or lavender can also add an unexpected twist, bringing complexity to this already elegant dessert. Just keep in mind that strong flavors should be balanced, so test small amounts to find the perfect combination.

In addition to raspberries, this panna cotta pairs beautifully with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry compote. Each fruit offers a unique flavor profile, so consider the season and availability of ingredients. You could also layer different flavored panna cottas for a multi-dimensional dessert or serve them in clear glasses for an aesthetic touch that showcases the colors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits for the topping?

Yes, you can substitute raspberries with strawberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry topping.

→ How do I store leftover panna cotta?

Store leftover panna cotta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make panna cotta ahead of time?

Absolutely! Panna cotta can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

→ Is panna cotta gluten-free?

Yes, this panna cotta recipe is gluten-free as it contains no flour or gluten-containing ingredients.