To begin, combine the gelatin and water in a small saucepan. Give it a stir and let it sit until it thickens. This will not take long.

Heat the mixture over very low heat, stirring constantly, just until you can see that the gelatin has dissolved. Remove it from the heat, but don't let it sit long enough to set. Immediately begin the next step.

In your chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream and the powdered sugar. Beat with your chilled wire beater attachment until it begins to thicken.

With the mixer going, slowly drizzle the melted gelatin into the whipping cream.

Add in the vanilla extract.

Whip at high speed until it is thick and stiffened.

Use this any way you like.