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Creamy Pink Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta Recipe with Easy Mixed Berry Compote

pink vanilla bean panna cotta - featured image

A creamy, silky vanilla bean panna cotta with a delicate pink hue, topped with a vibrant mixed berry compote. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups heavy cream (480 ml)
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
  • 1 large vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 2 tsp pure vanilla extract)
  • 2 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin powder (about 1 packet)
  • 3 tbsp cold water (45 ml) for blooming gelatin
  • Natural beet juice or a few drops of pink food coloring (optional)
  • 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) (300350 g)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 g)
  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (15 ml)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sprinkle 2 1/2 teaspoons of gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until spongy and absorbed.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Add the scraped seeds and pod of 1 vanilla bean (or vanilla extract). Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot but not boiling (about 170°F/77°C). Remove from heat.
  3. Remove the vanilla bean pod and stir the bloomed gelatin into the warm cream mixture until completely dissolved. Add beet juice or pink food coloring if desired and stir gently.
  4. Pour the mixture evenly into 4-6 ramekins or jars. Let cool at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
  5. While panna cotta chills, combine 2 cups mixed berries, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries break down and mixture thickens slightly (8-10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract if using. Let cool to room temperature.
  6. Serve panna cotta chilled with a generous spoonful of mixed berry compote on top. Optionally garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra whole berries.

Notes

Bloom gelatin properly before adding to hot cream to avoid clumps. Do not boil the cream mixture to preserve texture and flavor. Chill panna cotta at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut and almond milk and use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Strain cream mixture for a smooth finish if desired. Avoid freezing panna cotta as texture may become grainy.

Nutrition

Keywords: panna cotta, vanilla bean, mixed berry compote, creamy dessert, easy dessert, pink panna cotta, gelatin dessert, berry topping