Start by sprinkling gelatin into a bowl with water and let stand for 1 minute to soften. If you want to ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved, place in a saucepan and heat over low heat until gelatin is dissolved.
In a large saucepan, bring heavy cream and sugar to a boil over medium-high heat. Whisk often. Once it begins to boil, remove from heat and whisk in gelatin mixture and vanilla. I love to use vanilla beans, vanilla bean paste, or pure vanilla extract.
Divide the cream mixture into four 1/2 cup ramekins. Let the mixture come to room temperature before putting in the refrigerator.
Cover and let chill for at least 4 hours to allow time to set-up.To serve and invert on a plate, dip ramekins into a bowl of hot water for several seconds. Run a knife along the edge of each ramekin and invert onto the center of a serving plate.