The Best Mango Coconut Panna Cotta Recipe
This Mango Coconut Panna Cotta is a luscious, creamy dessert featuring a delicate coconut base layered with vibrant mango puree. Perfectly balanced with tropical flavors and a hint of lime zest, this no-bake treat is ideal for warm weather and special occasions. The smooth, silky texture combined with fresh mango slices and crunchy toasted coconut flakes makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake, chilled
- Cuisine: Fusion (Tropical/Italian)
- Diet: Gluten Free
For the Coconut Layer:
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) unflavored gelatin
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk, divided
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Mango Layer:
- 2 large ripe mangoes, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
For Garnish:
- Fresh mango slices
- Toasted coconut flakes (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves
- Bloom the gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes spongy. This ensures a smooth panna cotta without lumps.
- Prepare the coconut base: Heat 1/2 cup of the coconut milk in a small saucepan until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Combine the coconut layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add the warm coconut milk and gelatin mixture, whisking continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Create the mango puree: Blend the diced mango with fresh lime juice, granulated sugar, and lime zest until completely smooth. Taste and adjust the sweetness as needed since mango sweetness can vary.
- First layer setting: Pour the coconut mixture evenly into 6 serving glasses or ramekins, filling them about halfway. Refrigerate for approximately 2 hours until the layer is set but still slightly tacky on top.
- Add the mango layer: Once the coconut layer is set, gently spoon the mango puree over each portion. For a decorative touch, swirl with a toothpick for a marbled effect or keep layers distinct for a clean look.
- Final chilling: Refrigerate the layered panna cotta for at least 3 hours, though overnight chilling is recommended for the best texture and ease of unmolding if desired.
- Serve and garnish: Just before serving, garnish with fresh mango slices, toasted coconut flakes, and fresh mint leaves to enhance appearance and flavor.
Notes
- Avoid boiling the coconut milk when dissolving the gelatin to prevent a rubbery texture.
- The coconut layer should feel tacky when adding the mango puree to ensure layers bond well.
- Fresh lime juice is essential to brighten the tropical flavors of the dessert.
- Overnight chilling results in the silkiest texture and makes unmolding easier.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; flavors improve after sitting overnight.
- Do not freeze this dessert as freezing will cause a grainy and unpleasant texture.
- This panna cotta makes a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties or special gatherings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1 glass)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Mango panna cotta, coconut dessert, tropical panna cotta, no-bake dessert, mango coconut recipe, chilled dessert