Mango Panna Cotta: A Smooth and Elegant Dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Two-Layered Delight: The combination of a creamy base and fruity mango top gives you a light, yet indulgent dessert experience.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make this elegant dish—just fresh or canned mango, gelatin, cream, and a few basics.
Versatile Presentation: Serve it unmolded for an elegant presentation or in glasses for a more casual setting.
Make-Ahead: This dessert is ideal for prepping ahead of time. Just allow it to set in the fridge, and it’s ready to impress your guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Mango Layer:

1 ½ cups mango puree (fresh or canned)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons unflavored powdered gelatin
2 tablespoons cold water

For the Cream Layer:

1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons unflavored powdered gelatin
2 tablespoons cold water

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Mango Layer

In a small bowl, sprinkle 2 teaspoons of gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to bloom.
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the mango puree and lemon juice until steaming but not boiling.
Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
Pour the mango mixture evenly into ramekins or silicone molds, filling each about halfway.
Chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours, or until the mango layer is set.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Layer

In a clean small bowl, sprinkle the remaining 2 teaspoons of gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it bloom for 5–10 minutes.
In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, just until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm (do not boil).
Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, but do not let it set.

Step 3: Assemble the Panna Cotta

Gently pour the cooled cream layer over the set mango layer in each mold.
Refrigerate again for 3–4 hours or overnight until the panna cotta is fully firm.

Step 4: Unmold and Serve

To unmold, dip the ramekins briefly in warm water for 5–10 seconds, then invert onto serving plates.
Garnish with fresh mango slices, mint leaves, passionfruit pulp, or edible flowers if desired.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Additional Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Different Fruit Layers: Swap out mango for other fruit purees like strawberry, raspberry, or passionfruit for a unique twist.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk in place of the heavy cream and whole milk for a dairy-free version.
Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, feel free to add a little more sugar to the cream layer, or sweeten the mango layer with honey or agave syrup.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the panna cotta in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While panna cotta is best served fresh, it can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought mango puree?

Yes, you can use store-bought mango puree. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors.

2. Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! Panna cotta is best made ahead of time, as it needs time to set in the fridge.

3. Can I make this recipe without gelatin?

Gelatin is key to achieving the right texture, but if you prefer a vegetarian alternative, you can use agar-agar as a substitute. Just follow the packaging instructions for the equivalent amount.

4. How do I know if the panna cotta is fully set?

The panna cotta should be firm to the touch but still have a slight jiggle. If it’s too wobbly, let it chill for a bit longer.

5. Can I serve this panna cotta in individual glasses instead of molds?

Yes! You can serve this dessert in glasses for a no-flip presentation. Just make sure to let it set fully before serving.

Conclusion

Mango panna cotta is an elegant, light dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The smooth, creamy texture of the vanilla panna cotta combined with the vibrant mango layer makes for a refreshing and indulgent treat. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a simple but impressive end to a meal, this mango panna cotta will be sure to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy!

Mango Panna Cotta: A Smooth and Elegant Dessert