As I glanced at the calendar, the flurry of festive activities and sweet aromas filled my mind with expectations of joy and indulgence. That’s when I decided it was time to craft my Christmas Panna Cotta Trifle with Raspberries—a dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any holiday gathering. This delightful treat combines the creaminess of silky panna cotta with the vibrant tartness of seasonal raspberries, creating a festive centerpiece that is as beautiful as it is delicious. With a quick prep time and the ability to wow your guests, this trifle is perfect for anyone looking to leave fast food behind and embrace the warmth of homemade flavors. Ready to add a touch of magic to your celebrations? Let’s dive into this festive recipe! Why is this trifle a must-try? Decadent Elegance: Each spoonful of this trifle offers layers of rich panna cotta and tangy raspberries, creating a beautiful balance that’s sure to impress guests. Festive Appeal: With its striking red and white layers, it makes for a stunning centerpiece at any holiday gathering. Simplicity: Despite its elegant appearance, the recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, perfect for home cooks who want to leave fast food behind. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld easily while freeing you up on the day of your celebration. Customizable Delight: Want more variety? Substitute seasonal fruits or flavored yogurts to make it uniquely yours, just like with this Coconut Panna Cotta or Sweet Potato Cheese. Indulge in this crowd-pleaser that ensures every bite is a celebration! Christmas Panna Cotta Trifle Ingredients For the Panna Cotta • 900ml Thickened Cream – Provides rich creaminess to the panna cotta. Substitute: Can use half cream, half milk for a lighter version. • 500ml Full-Cream Milk – Adds additional creaminess and balances the sweetness. Substitute: Non-dairy milk can work but will alter flavor. • 2 Cinnamon Quills – Infuses warmth and spice flavor in the panna cotta. Substitute: Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp) can be used. • 2 tsp Ground Nutmeg – Adds depth and holiday scent. Avoid if sensitive; use additional cinnamon. • 2 Bay Leaves – Enhances aroma and flavor complexity. Not substitutable; however, can eliminate if unavailable. • 1 Vanilla Bean (halved and scraped) – Provides natural sweetness and rich flavor. Substitute: 1 tsp vanilla extract. • 1/2 cup Honey – Sweetens the panna cotta naturally. Substitute: Maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option. • 7 Platinum-Strength Gelatine Leaves – Set the panna cotta to a firm texture. Substitute: Agar-agar for a vegetarian option (adjust according to package instructions). • 1 cup Greek-style Yoghurt – Adds tanginess and creaminess to the mixture. Substitute: Regular yogurt or sour cream. For the Raspberry Cream • 300ml Thickened Cream – Used to create a luxurious raspberry topping. Substitute: Heavy cream can also be used. • 2 Tbsp Icing Sugar Mixture – Sweetens the raspberry cream. Substitute: Whipped cream for a lighter version. For Layering • 8 x 125g Punnets Raspberries – Fresh fruit layer, adding color and flavor. Substitute: Any seasonal berry like strawberries or blueberries. • 6 Choc Mini Sponge Rolls – Adds a chocolatey base layer. Substitute: Vanilla sponge or ladyfingers. • 6 Mini Jam Sponge Rolls – Complementary texture and flavor. Substitute: Any plain sponge or crumble. For Garnish (optional) • Shaved Dark Chocolate & Mint Leaves – For garnish. Omit if preferred. Indulge in Colin’s Christmas Panna Cotta Trifle that’s perfect for your festive celebrations! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Colin’s Raspberry and Panna Cotta Trifle Step 1: Make the Panna Cotta In a medium saucepan, combine 900ml thickened cream, 500ml full-cream milk, 2 cinnamon quills, 2 tsp ground nutmeg, 2 bay leaves, 1 halved vanilla bean (scraped), and 1/2 cup honey. Gently heat the mixture over low-medium heat until warm, stirring occasionally for about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to avoid boiling to prevent curdling. Step 2: Incorporate Gelatine While the panna cotta mixture is warming, soak 7 platinum-strength gelatine leaves in cold water for 5 minutes until they soften. Once your mixture is warm, remove it from heat and add the soaked gelatine, stirring until fully dissolved. Set aside the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes before blending in 1 cup of Greek-style yogurt until smooth and creamy. Step 3: Set the Panna Cotta Pour the blended panna cotta mixture into a trifle dish or individual serving glasses. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for 3-4 hours, or until the panna cotta is set and firm to the touch. It should have a silky smooth appearance, ready to support the layers of your Christmas trifle. Step 4: Prepare the Raspberry Cream In a medium bowl, beat 300ml thickened cream with 2 tablespoons of icing sugar using an electric mixer until soft peaks form, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Gently fold in the remaining raspberries—reserving a few for garnish—ensuring a light and airy consistency. Chill the raspberry cream in the refrigerator while the panna cotta sets. Step 5: Assemble the Trifle Once the panna cotta is set, begin layering your trifle in the dish. Start with a layer of panna cotta, followed by alternating layers of 6 choc mini sponge rolls and 6 mini jam sponge rolls. Add a generous layer of fresh raspberries in between, continuing until all your ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of panna cotta on top. Step 6: Top with Raspberry Cream Once assembled, spread the chilled raspberry cream over the top layer of panna cotta, smoothing it out for a beautiful finish. If desired, garnish with shaved dark chocolate and fresh mint leaves. This festive touch will enhance the presentation of Colin’s raspberry and panna cotta trifle, making it as delightful visually as it is in taste. How to Store and Freeze Colin’s Raspberry and Panna Cotta Trifle Fridge: Keep the assembled trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days for optimal freshness. Enjoy it cold for a delightful dessert experience! Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for the assembled trifle, leftover panna cotta can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month without the layers. Reheating: If you’ve frozen the panna cotta, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. Be sure to reassemble with fresh layers for the best results. Do Not Freeze: Avoid freezing the raspberry cream or any sponge layers, as they may become soggy upon thawing. For Colin’s raspberry and panna cotta trifle, it’s best enjoyed fresh! Expert Tips for Colin’s Raspberry and Panna Cotta Trifle Plan Ahead: Preparing the panna cotta a day in advance enhances the flavors and ensures a smooth texture for the trifle, making serving effortless. Watch the Heat: Avoid boiling the panna cotta mixture; it can curdle. Keep the heat low and stir gently for a creamy result. Layering Matters: For a stunning presentation, make sure each layer is even and properly alternated. This creates an attractive visual effect for your festive dessert. Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with different seasonal fruits or flavored yogurts to personalize Colin’s raspberry and panna cotta trifle—variety is key to keeping your holiday gatherings exciting! Freshness Alert: For the best flavor, assemble the trifle no more than a few hours before serving, ensuring the layers stay fresh and vibrant. Colin’s Raspberry and Panna Cotta Trifle Variations Feel free to add your own personal touch to this trifle, enhancing its flavor and charm in delightful ways. Seasonal Fruits: Try using peaches or mango instead of raspberries for a tropical twist. The sweetness of tropical fruits paired with creamy panna cotta lends a refreshing contrast that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut or almond milk instead of cream for a lighter vegan option. This not only changes the flavor but adds a subtle richness that’s sure to please anyone seeking a non-dairy dessert. Spiced Elegance: Infuse with a little cardamom or ginger for a warming spice kick. Just a sprinkle will transport your taste buds to cozy, holiday memories with every bite. Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add layers of chocolate mousse or ganache in between layers for a richer dessert experience. Chocolate and raspberry are a classic pairing that never fails to impress. Flavored Yogurts: Consider flavored yogurts like coconut or vanilla for added depth. This subtle change can create a silky texture while enhancing the overall taste profile. Crunchy Texture: Incorporate crushed biscotti or praline layers for added crunch. The textural contrast between smooth panna cotta and a crunchy layer takes this dessert to a whole new level. Minty Freshness: Want a refreshing twist? Fold in chopped mint leaves into the raspberry cream. This fragrant herb brightens the dessert, adding a lively element that pairs beautifully with the richness of panna cotta. Lemon Zest Zing: A hint of lemon zest in the panna cotta can elevate the dessert with a citrusy brightness. This will balance the creaminess, adding an invigorating touch that will awaken the senses. Just like exploring other recipes such as this delightful Garlic Herb Country Soup, creating your own variation of this trifle can be a joyous culinary adventure! Celebrate the festive spirit and let your creativity shine in the kitchen! What to Serve with Christmas Panna Cotta Trifle? Elevate your festive gathering with delightful pairings that will enhance the experience of your creamy, vibrant dessert. Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly complements the sweetness of the trifle while adding a festive pop, making your holiday celebration even more special. Gingerbread Cookies: Their spicy warmth contrasts beautifully with the creamy panna cotta, adding a comforting touch to your dessert spread. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the trifle while infusing bright, vibrant flavors. Chocolate Mint Torte: The deep chocolate flavor of this cake pairs harmoniously with the panna cotta, creating a rich yet delightful dessert experience. Mint Tea: A cup of soothing mint tea cleanses the palate after indulging in the trifle, offering a light and refreshing finish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: If served as part of a main meal, mashed potatoes’ creamy texture makes a comforting base to the rich yet light trifle for a harmonious dinner. Warm Apple Crisp: The warm spices and crunchy topping of this dessert provides a cozy, aromatic counterpoint to the cool, refreshing trifle layers. Embrace the warmth of togetherness during your festive gatherings by serving these delightful items alongside Colin’s Christmas Panna Cotta Trifle! Make Ahead Options These Christmas Panna Cotta Trifles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the panna cotta up to 24 hours in advance by following the recipe steps, ensuring it’s well-covered in the refrigerator to maintain its silky smoothness. The raspberry cream can also be made a day ahead; simply refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble. When it’s time to serve, layer the prepped panna cotta and sponge rolls, then top with your chilled raspberry cream and any additional garnishes. This way, your trifle will be just as delicious as if made fresh, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones! Colin’s Raspberry and Panna Cotta Trifle Recipe FAQs What kind of raspberries should I use for the trifle? Absolutely, I recommend using fresh, vibrant raspberries as they offer the best flavor and texture. Look for plump berries without any dark spots or mold. If unavailable, feel free to substitute with other fresh seasonal berries like strawberries or blueberries for a delightful twist. How should I store the assembled trifle? You can keep your assembled trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. Enjoy it chilled for the best dessert experience! Can I freeze the panna cotta? While freezing the assembled trifle is not recommended due to the possible texture change in the layers, you can freeze leftover panna cotta on its own. Pour the panna cotta into an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving, and reassemble it with fresh layers for the best results. What do I do if my panna cotta doesn’t set? If your panna cotta doesn’t set, it may be due to not dissolving the gelatine properly. Ensure that you soak the gelatine leaves in cold water until softened and that it’s mixed into the warm panna cotta mixture thoroughly. If it still doesn’t set, you can gently reheat the mixture until warm (never boiling) and add a bit more gelatine, letting it cool and setting again. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this recipe. For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and use plant-based cream and yogurt. Also, for those who may have allergies, be sure to check the labels on your ingredients for potential allergens, and feel free to swap out for safer alternatives. Can I make this trifle gluten-free? Absolutely! To make Colin’s raspberry and panna cotta trifle gluten-free, simply use gluten-free sponge rolls or ladyfingers. There are many delicious gluten-free options available, ensuring everyone at your gathering can enjoy this treat without worry. Colin’s Raspberry and Panna Cotta Trifle for Festive Joy Indulge in Colin’s raspberry and panna cotta trifle, a delicious centerpiece for your festive gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Panna Cotta900 ml Thickened Cream Can use half cream, half milk for a lighter version.500 ml Full-Cream Milk Non-dairy milk can work but will alter flavor.2 units Cinnamon Quills Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp) can be used.2 tsp Ground Nutmeg Avoid if sensitive; use additional cinnamon.2 units Bay Leaves Not substitutable; eliminate if unavailable.1 unit Vanilla Bean (halved and scraped) Substitute with 1 tsp vanilla extract.1/2 cup Honey Maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.7 units Platinum-Strength Gelatine Leaves Use agar-agar for a vegetarian option (adjust according to package instructions).1 cup Greek-style Yoghurt Substitute with regular yogurt or sour cream.For the Raspberry Cream300 ml Thickened Cream Heavy cream can also be used.2 Tbsp Icing Sugar Mixture Substitute with whipped cream for a lighter version.For Layering8 x 125g punnets Raspberries Any seasonal berry like strawberries or blueberries.6 units Choc Mini Sponge Rolls Substitute with vanilla sponge or ladyfingers.6 units Mini Jam Sponge Rolls Any plain sponge or crumble can be used.For Garnish (optional)Shaved Dark ChocolateMint Leaves Equipment medium saucepanElectric mixerTrifle Dish or Serving Glasses Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium saucepan, combine 900ml thickened cream, 500ml full-cream milk, 2 cinnamon quills, 2 tsp ground nutmeg, 2 bay leaves, 1 halved vanilla bean (scraped), and 1/2 cup honey. Gently heat the mixture over low-medium heat until warm, stirring occasionally for about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to avoid boiling to prevent curdling.While the panna cotta mixture is warming, soak 7 platinum-strength gelatine leaves in cold water for 5 minutes until they soften. Once your mixture is warm, remove it from heat and add the soaked gelatine, stirring until fully dissolved. Set aside the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes before blending in 1 cup of Greek-style yogurt until smooth and creamy.Pour the blended panna cotta mixture into a trifle dish or individual serving glasses. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for 3-4 hours, or until the panna cotta is set and firm to the touch.In a medium bowl, beat 300ml thickened cream with 2 tablespoons of icing sugar using an electric mixer until soft peaks form, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Gently fold in the remaining raspberries—reserving a few for garnish—ensuring a light and airy consistency. Chill the raspberry cream in the refrigerator while the panna cotta sets.Once the panna cotta is set, begin layering your trifle in the dish. Start with a layer of panna cotta, followed by alternating layers of 6 choc mini sponge rolls and 6 mini jam sponge rolls. Add a generous layer of fresh raspberries in between, continuing until all your ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of panna cotta on top.Once assembled, spread the chilled raspberry cream over the top layer of panna cotta, smoothing it out for a beautiful finish. Garnish with shaved dark chocolate and fresh mint leaves if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesAssemble the trifle no more than a few hours before serving for best freshness. Experiment with different seasonal fruits or flavored yogurts to personalize the dessert. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
