Mango Panna Cotta: A Fresh and Light Dessert
Mango Panna Cotta is a delightful dessert that embodies the vibrant essence of summer. Its creamy texture, coupled with the sweet, tropical flavor of mango, will evoke fond memories of sunny days and warm evenings. This recipe offers a seamless blend of lightness and indulgence, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Not only is Panna Cotta easy to prepare, but it also presents beautifully, impressing guests with its stunning layers and rich flavors, all while being a step-by-step delight that can be mastered by novice chefs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mango Panna Cotta has numerous benefits that make it a must-try. The prep time is quick, allowing you to whip up a delicious dessert with minimal fuss. It’s family-friendly, making it an excellent option for gatherings, as both kids and adults will be enamored by its luscious texture and bright taste. With only a handful of ingredients required, this recipe focuses on simplicity without compromising flavor, ensuring you can create a memorable dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Mango Panna Cotta
- 2 cups fresh mango purée: From ripe mangoes that promise sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 tbsp sugar: Optional, depending on the sweetness of the mangoes.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: To brighten the flavors.
- 1 tsp gelatin powder: Essential for the creamy texture.
- 2 tbsp cold water: For blooming the gelatin.
- 1/2 cup raspberry purée: Strained for smoothness to add a fruity tartness.
- 1 tbsp sugar: To sweeten the raspberry purée.
- 1/2 tsp gelatin powder: For the raspberry layer.
- 1 tbsp cold water: To bloom the raspberry gelatin.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base for your luscious panna cotta.
- 1 cup whole milk: To lighten the mix.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: To enhance the creaminess.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste: For that aromatic touch.
- 1 1/2 tsp gelatin powder: For the panna cotta base.
- 3 tbsp cold water: To bloom the gelatin for the panna cotta.
- Diced fresh mango: For garnish, adding a pop of color.
- Optional mint leaves: For a refreshing touch.
Step-by-Step Directions
Make the Mango Layer
Start by blooming the gelatin in cold water for about 5 minutes. This will ensure it dissolves perfectly in your mixture.
In a saucepan, heat the fresh mango purée over low heat. Add sugar and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine.
Once warmed, stir in the bloomed gelatin until it’s completely dissolved.
Carefully pour the mixture into slanted glasses or molds, ensuring an elegant presentation. Chill for 1–2 hours until set.
Create the Raspberry Stripe
Bloom the gelatin in cold water again, just like you did for the mango layer.
In another saucepan, gently warm the raspberry purée and sugar until cozy and slightly warm.
Stir in the bloomed gelatin until smooth and fully combined.
Once the mango layer is set, gently spoon the raspberry mixture over it. Return to the refrigerator to chill for about 30 minutes, or until just set.
Prepare the Panna Cotta
Bloom the gelatin in cold water once more.
In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat this mixture until warm, but do not let it boil.
Stir in the bloomed gelatin until it dissolves completely. Take care not to rush this process as it’s key to achieving a silky texture.
Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, carefully pour it upright over the raspberry layer.
Chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the panna cotta is fully set.
Garnish & Serve
Just before serving, top your Mango Panna Cotta with diced fresh mango and optional mint leaves for a refreshing accent.
Serve chilled for an invigorating dessert experience!
Tips & Tricks
- Chef’s Secrets: Ensure your gelatin is fresh and not expired for the best results.
- Optional Extras: Consider adding a splash of coconut milk for an extra hint of tropical flavor.
- Cooking Hacks: If you’re short on time, you can substitute with store-bought purées, but fresh fruits yield the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Present your Mango Panna Cotta in clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers. Pair it with a drizzle of coconut sauce or a handful of toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor. This dessert pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a light, sparkling beverage to complement its sweetness.
Nutritional Information
While enjoying your Mango Panna Cotta, it’s good to keep track of the nourishment it provides. Approximately, a serving contains around 300-350 calories, depending on sugar and cream content. This dessert offers a satisfying experience without excessive indulgence, making it a worthy addition to your treat repertoire.
Storing Tips & Variations for Mango Panna Cotta
For optimal freshness, store your Mango Panna Cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Feel free to experiment with variations by substituting other fruits like passion fruit or strawberries for the raspberry layer. You can also create a lighter version using low-fat milk and reduced sugar.
Conclusion for Mango Panna Cotta
Mango Panna Cotta is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone will adore. Easy to prepare with stunning results, why wait? Grab those ripe mangoes and embark on this culinary adventure today!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen mango for this recipe?
- Yes, frozen mango works well; just ensure it’s thawed and blended smoothly.
2. How long does this dessert take to set?
- Expect at least 4 hours for the panna cotta to fully set, so plan accordingly!
3. Is there a non-dairy alternative?
- Absolutely! You can substitute coconut cream or almond milk for a delicious dairy-free version.
4. How can I prevent the panna cotta from being grainy?
- Ensure your gelatin is completely dissolved and prevent boiling your cream mixture to maintain a smooth texture.
5. Can I make this dessert in advance?
- Yes, Mango Panna Cotta can be made a day or two ahead of time, making it a great choice for parties!
Mango Panna Cotta
Ingredients
Mango Layer
- 2 cups fresh mango purée From ripe mangoes that promise sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 tbsp sugar Optional, depending on the sweetness of the mangoes.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice To brighten the flavors.
- 1 tsp gelatin powder Essential for the creamy texture.
- 2 tbsp cold water For blooming the gelatin.
Raspberry Layer
- 1/2 cup raspberry purée Strained for smoothness to add a fruity tartness.
- 1 tbsp sugar To sweeten the raspberry purée.
- 1/2 tsp gelatin powder For the raspberry layer.
- 1 tbsp cold water To bloom the raspberry gelatin.
Panna Cotta Base
- 1 cup heavy cream The base for your luscious panna cotta.
- 1 cup whole milk To lighten the mix.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar To enhance the creaminess.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste For that aromatic touch.
- 1 1/2 tsp gelatin powder For the panna cotta base.
- 3 tbsp cold water To bloom the gelatin for the panna cotta.
Garnish
- Diced fresh mango For garnish, adding a pop of color.
- Mint leaves Optional for a refreshing touch.
Instructions
Make the Mango Layer
- Bloom the gelatin in cold water for about 5 minutes.
- In a saucepan, heat the fresh mango purée over low heat. Add sugar and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine.
- Once warmed, stir in the bloomed gelatin until it’s completely dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into slanted glasses or molds and chill for 1-2 hours until set.
Create the Raspberry Stripe
- Bloom the gelatin in cold water again.
- In another saucepan, gently warm the raspberry purée and sugar until cozy and slightly warm.
- Stir in the bloomed gelatin until smooth and fully combined.
- Once the mango layer is set, gently spoon the raspberry mixture over it and chill for about 30 minutes.
Prepare the Panna Cotta
- Bloom the gelatin in cold water once more.
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat this mixture until warm.
- Stir in the bloomed gelatin until it dissolves completely.
- Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, carefully pour it upright over the raspberry layer.
- Chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the panna cotta is fully set.
Garnish & Serve
- Just before serving, top your Mango Panna Cotta with diced fresh mango and optional mint leaves for a refreshing accent.
- Serve chilled for an invigorating dessert experience.

