If you are looking for a dessert that is as elegant as it is refreshing, this Mango Panna Cotta Recipe is going to be your new favorite indulgence. Creamy, silky, and bursting with tropical mango flavor complemented by a hint of lime zest, it strikes the perfect balance between richness and lightness. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day, this panna cotta will charm everyone with its delicate texture and vibrant taste. It’s a splendid way to showcase the lusciousness of mango in a dish that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mango Panna Cotta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and create that signature creamy texture that makes panna cotta so irresistible. From the silky cream to the zesty lime and fresh mango, every component plays a crucial role in the final dish.
- ½ cup whole milk: Provides a smooth base that helps dissolve the gelatin.
- 1 ½ teaspoons unflavored gelatin: The essential thickening agent that gives panna cotta its characteristic wobble and creaminess.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Adds richness and velvety texture to the dessert.
- ½ cup sugar: Balances the creaminess with just the right touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic undertone that complements the mango perfectly.
- Zest of one lime: Brightens the flavor with a zesty citrus kick.
- ½ cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt: Introduces a lovely tang that cuts through the sweetness and adds depth.
- 2 cups cubed mango (fresh or frozen): The star ingredient, bringing vibrant color and tropical juiciness.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps to create a smooth mango puree.
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar (depending on sweetness of mango): Adjusts the sweetness of the mango topping to taste.
- 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lime juice: Enhances the mango with a fresh, tart zing.
How to Make Mango Panna Cotta Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Start by sprinkling the unflavored gelatin over the whole milk in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom. This step is crucial as it allows the gelatin to absorb the milk and soften, ensuring a perfectly smooth panna cotta without any unpleasant lumps.
Step 2: Heat the Cream and Sugar
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and lime zest. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is steaming but not boiling. Then remove from heat. This step infuses the cream with the sweet and citrus aromas that will define the panna cotta’s delicate flavor profile.
Step 3: Incorporate Gelatin into Cream
Add the bloomed gelatin mixture into the warm cream mixture, whisking continuously until the gelatin fully dissolves. This ensures that your panna cotta will set with the ideal creamy firmness, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 4: Add Yogurt and Pour into Molds
Stir in the Greek yogurt to add a subtle tang and creaminess that brightens the dish. Divide the mixture evenly into six serving glasses or molds. Let them cool to room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Step 5: Prepare the Mango Sauce
While the panna cotta chills, make the mango topping by blending the cubed mango with water, sugar (adjust based on your mango’s sweetness), and fresh lime juice until smooth. This fresh, vibrant sauce will perfectly contrast the creamy panna cotta base.
Step 6: Serve with the Mango Sauce
Once the panna cotta is fully set and firm, spoon the mango sauce generously over each serving. The bright, tropical mango topping will make the dish pop in color and elevate every spoonful with fresh fruit flavor.
How to Serve Mango Panna Cotta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your mango panna cotta is a wonderful way to add texture and visual appeal. Consider fresh mint leaves for a refreshing herbal note, thin lime slices to echo the citrus zest, or toasted coconut flakes to add a subtle crunch that melds perfectly with the tropical vibe.
Side Dishes
Mango panna cotta pairs beautifully with light, summery side dishes. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a simple almond biscotti can make the dessert feel like a complete, sophisticated meal. Keep the accompaniments light to let the panna cotta shine as the star of the table.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this Mango Panna Cotta Recipe in elegant glasses for a chic presentation or unmold them onto plates for a rustic charm. Try layering the mango sauce between sets for a gradient effect or topping with fresh diced mango for extra freshness and texture. The options are endless and always delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, cover the panna cotta tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture and fresh mango flavor without drying out.
Freezing
Freezing panna cotta is generally not recommended because the texture can become grainy once thawed. However, you can freeze the mango sauce separately in an airtight container for up to one month and thaw it before serving for a perfectly fresh topping every time.
Reheating
Since panna cotta is best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not necessary or advisable. Simply allow refrigerated or thawed panna cotta to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly for the perfect spoonful.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat milk or cream for this Mango Panna Cotta Recipe?
While you can substitute with lower-fat options, the richness and silky texture might be compromised. Whole milk and heavy cream provide the luscious mouthfeel that panna cotta is known for, so sticking to the original ingredients is best for authentic results.
Is gelatin the only thickener I can use for panna cotta?
Gelatin is the classic choice because it gives panna cotta its characteristic wobble and creamy firmness. Alternatives like agar-agar can be used for vegetarian versions, but they require different preparation methods and proportions.
Can I make Mango Panna Cotta Recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace the dairy with coconut cream or almond milk and use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious and creamy with the mango’s natural sweetness.
How long does it take for panna cotta to set?
Typically, panna cotta will take at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to set firmly. For best results, leaving it overnight ensures a silky, stable texture that’s easy to unmold and enjoy.
Can I prepare Mango Panna Cotta Recipe in advance for a party?
Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the panna cotta and mango sauce a day in advance, keep them chilled separately, then combine just before serving to save time while impressing your guests with a beautiful, fresh dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Mango Panna Cotta Recipe is pure joy in a glass—creamy, fruity, and utterly delightful. It’s one of those desserts that never fail to impress, whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself. So go ahead, try this recipe, and let the tropical flavors and velvety texture bring a little sunshine to your day.
Print
Mango Panna Cotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Mango Panna Cotta is a silky, creamy Italian dessert with a tropical twist, combining the smooth richness of gelatin-set cream with the bright, fresh flavors of mango and lime. Perfect for a refreshing and elegant treat that serves six.
Ingredients
Panna Cotta Base
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons unflavored gelatin
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one lime
- ½ cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
Mango Puree
- 2 cups cubed mango (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1–2 tablespoons sugar (depending on sweetness of mango)
- 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lime juice
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle the 1 ½ teaspoons of unflavored gelatin evenly over ½ cup whole milk in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until fully absorbed and gelatin is softened.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine 2 cups heavy cream, ½ cup sugar, lime zest, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Heat gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the cream is hot but not boiling.
- Combine Gelatin and Cream: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin mixture until completely dissolved. Let the mixture cool slightly before whisking in ½ cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
- Set the Panna Cotta: Pour the mixture into 6 individual serving glasses or molds. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Make the Mango Puree: In a blender, combine 2 cups cubed mango, 2 tablespoons water, 1-2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Once the panna cotta is set, spoon the mango puree over each serving just before serving. Garnish with additional lime zest or mint leaves if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen mango depending on availability; frozen mango may require a little extra water to blend smoothly.
- Adjust sugar in the mango puree depending on the natural sweetness of the mango.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream and Greek yogurt with coconut cream and coconut yogurt respectively, and ensure gelatin is replaced with a vegetarian alternative like agar-agar.
- Allowing panna cotta to set overnight improves texture and flavor blending.
