If you’re searching for a dessert that combines sophistication, simplicity, and incredible flavour, this Gooseberry & Vanilla Panna Cotta with Almond Crumble is the one to make. It’s that rare kind of recipe — elegant enough for a dinner party. Yet, it is easy enough for a midweek treat.
Each spoonful offers a harmony of textures: the smooth, creamy vanilla panna cotta, the bright tang of Royal Crown Gooseberries in Light Syrup, and the buttery crunch of almond crumble. Together, they create a dessert that’s light yet indulgent. It is comforting but undeniably luxurious.
And the best part? You don’t need to be a pastry chef to make it. Thanks to Macphie Panna Cotta Base Mix
, available to buy from Nicol Retailer, creating the perfect panna cotta has never been simpler. This professional-quality mix delivers a silky, restaurant-standard texture every time. It saves you the stress of measuring gelatine or worrying about the set. Just add milk and cream, and you’re minutes away from a flawless dessert.
The secret to what makes this recipe truly shine lies in the gooseberries. Sourced and packed with care, Royal Crown Gooseberries in Light Syrup (3kg) are naturally sweet with a gentle tartness. This pairs beautifully with the creamy vanilla base. Their syrup adds a delicate gloss and subtle sweetness that elevates the entire dish. Because they’re preserved at peak ripeness, you can enjoy this fresh, fruity flavour all year round.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, hosting guests, or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this panna cotta delivers that “wow” moment every time. It looks stunning, tastes divine, and takes surprisingly little effort. A true modern British dessert with a fine-dining twist.
Here is the recipe and instructions of how to make the delicious recipe:
Gooseberry & Vanilla Panna Cotta with Almond Crumble
Ingredients
For the Panna Cotta
- 1 lltr Panna Cotta Mix (to make approx. 500 ml–600 ml)
- 300 ml Whole milk
- 200 ml Double cream
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (optional, for extra flavour)
For the Gooseberry Compote
- 300 g Royal Crown Gooseberries in Light Syrup (from Nicol Retailer)
- 1 tbsp syrup from the tin
- 1/2 tsp Lemon zest
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Almond Crumble
- 50 g plain flour
- 40 g cold butter, cubed
- 25 g ground almonds
- 25 g caster sugar
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Make the Panna Cotta
- Prepare the panna cotta mix according to packet instructions with milk and cream.
- Add vanilla bean paste for extra aroma.
- Gently fold in a handful of drained Royal Crown Gooseberries for pops of flavour and texture
- Pour into glass cups or moulds. Chill for at least 3 hours or until set.
Make the Gooseberry Compote
- Add gooseberries, syrup, lemon zest, and juice to a saucepan.
- Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until thick and glossy.
- Cool completely before spooning over the panna cotta.
Prepare the Almond Crumble
- Preheat oven to 180 °C (160 °C fan).
- Combine flour, butter, ground almonds, sugar, and salt until crumbly.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden. Cool and crumble.
Assemble & Serve
- Top each panna cotta with gooseberry compote.
- Sprinkle with almond crumble and garnish with fresh mint or whole gooseberries.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing, elegant finish.
Notes
gives you that perfect contrast every time. Their gentle tang lifts the sweetness of the panna cotta and adds a burst of freshness to each bite. For an elegant finish, serve in clear glasses so the golden layers of gooseberry, cream, and crumble shine through. It’s the kind of dessert that looks impressive, tastes divine, and leaves your guests asking for seconds — with none of the stress.
Nutrition
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this dessert truly special is its perfect balance of flavour, texture, and simplicity. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but doesn’t overwhelm. It is rich enough to satisfy a sweet craving, yet light enough to leave you wanting just one more spoonful.
The Macphie Panna Cotta Base Mix, available from Nicol Retailer, guarantees flawless results every time. Forget the stress of measuring gelatine or wondering if your cream will set. This professional-quality mix creates a silky, smooth panna cotta with barely any effort. It gives you that restaurant-perfect wobble and melt-in-the-mouth texture in just a few easy steps.
Then there’s the Royal Crown Gooseberries in Light Syrup (3kg) — a true gem for home bakers and dessert lovers alike. Their natural tartness cuts through the creamy richness of the panna cotta. Meanwhile, the light syrup adds a subtle sweetness and a glossy finish. Because they’re carefully preserved, you can enjoy that burst of fruity freshness no matter the season. It’s like capturing the taste of summer in every spoonful.
The addition of a buttery almond crumble brings a satisfying crunch and a touch of nuttiness. This creates a beautiful contrast against the soft panna cotta and syrupy gooseberries. Together, these elements form a dessert that feels layered, thoughtful, and completely irresistible.
But beyond flavour, this recipe works because it’s achievable. You don’t need special tools or complex techniques — just quality ingredients and a little patience while it chills. Whether you’re making it for guests or simply treating yourself, it’s a foolproof recipe that delivers big on taste, texture, and presentation.
A little elegance, a little nostalgia, and a whole lot of flavour — this Gooseberry & Vanilla Panna Cotta is proof that the simplest desserts are often the most memorable.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
This Gooseberry & Vanilla Panna Cotta with Almond Crumble is more than just a dessert — it’s an experience. Every element brings its own texture and flavour. When served beautifully, it feels like something you’d order at an upscale restaurant. The best part? You can create it effortlessly at home.
Serve your panna cotta chilled, ideally in clear dessert glasses or stemmed coupes so the layers of creamy vanilla, glossy gooseberry compote, and golden crumble are on full display. The visual contrast — pale cream against the soft pink hue of the gooseberries — instantly elevates the presentation and makes it perfect for entertaining.
For a little extra flair, garnish with whole Royal Crown Gooseberries in Light Syrup and a few fresh mint leaves. This not only adds a pop of colour but also enhances the fruity aroma. You can even drizzle a teaspoon of the syrup from the tin over the top for that glossy, photo-worthy finish.
When it comes to pairings, this panna cotta loves a light, refreshing drink. Try serving it with a chilled glass of Prosecco, sparkling rosé, or even elderflower cordial for a delicate, floral complement to the gooseberries’ tartness. The creamy panna cotta and crisp bubbles work together beautifully. This combination cleanses the palate after each bite.
For something heartier, it follows a rich main course perfectly — think roasted lamb, venison, or a classic British beef dish. The bright, fruity notes of the gooseberries bring balance to a savoury meal. It ends dinner on a light yet luxurious note.
If you want to transform this dessert into a fine-dining showpiece, add a few edible flowers or a gentle dusting of crushed pistachios before serving. The combination of colours and textures makes this panna cotta look as impressive as it tastes.
No matter the occasion — whether it’s a romantic dinner, a garden party, or a quiet indulgence at home — this recipe delivers understated elegance and comfort in every bite.
Final Thoughts
This Gooseberry & Vanilla Panna Cotta with Almond Crumble is proof that fine dining doesn’t have to be complicated. With a handful of premium ingredients and a touch of creativity, you can transform a simple dessert into something truly extraordinary. The silky-smooth panna cotta, made effortlessly using the Macphie Panna Cotta Base Mix
, pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart vibrance of Royal Crown Gooseberries in Light Syrup (3kg)
— both available at Nicol Retailer.
Whether you’re hosting guests, celebrating something special, or just treating yourself, this dessert captures everything wonderful about modern British cooking: elegant presentation, incredible flavour, and quality ingredients that speak for themselves.
So go ahead — pour, chill, and serve up a taste of luxury. With Nicol Retailer’s Macphie Panna Cotta Base Mix and Royal Crown Gooseberries, creating restaurant-worthy desserts at home has never been easier (or more delicious).