Name: Creamy Mango Panna Cotta – A Tropical Dessert Dream
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: ½ cup water (Serves as the base for dissolving the gelatine.); 1 ½ teaspoons powdered gelatine (The secret to achieving that signature wobbly texture.); ¼ cup sugar (Sweetens the dish; adjust based on the ripeness of your mango.); 1 ¼ cups mango purée (Opt for fresh or frozen mangoes for the best flavor.); ¾ cup thickened cream (Adds richness; coconut cream works for a dairy-free option.); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (Optional, but highly recommended for flavor enhancement.)

The air is thick with the sweet, tropical scent of ripe mangoes, beckoning me to dive into a culinary adventure. I can’t help but smile at the thought of making a luscious Mango Panna Cotta that’s not only incredibly simple but also a vibrant showstopper for gatherings. This silky dessert features the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, making it an easy go-to for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices. With just six ingredients and a mere ten minutes of preparation, you’ll find it’s the ideal way to elevate any meal, transforming ordinary occasions into delightful feasts. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing you to impress your guests without the last-minute rush. So, are you ready to uncover the secrets to creating this tropical delight? Let’s get started!

Why is Mango Panna Cotta a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This creamy treat requires just six ingredients and a quick 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for even the busiest home cooks.
Vibrant Presentation: Its golden color and silky texture create an eye-catching dessert that will wow your guests at any gathering.
Versatile Flavor: While mango steals the spotlight, feel free to experiment with other purees like coconut for a tropical twist, similar to my Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Shells or Mango Float Chill.
Make-Ahead Marvel: This panna cotta only gets better with time; chilling it a day in advance enhances flavor while saving you time before your big event.
Indulgent Texture: Dive into each spoonful that glides effortlessly, combining creaminess with tropical fruit essence for an unforgettable experience.

Mango Panna Cotta Ingredients

• Create this tropical dessert dream with these essentials!

For the Panna Cotta

½ cup water (125ml) – Serves as the base for dissolving the gelatine.
1 ½ teaspoons powdered gelatine – The secret to achieving that signature wobbly texture in your Mango Panna Cotta.
¼ cup sugar (50g/1.8oz) – Sweetens the dish; adjust based on the ripeness of your mango for the perfect balance.
1 ¼ cups mango purée (310ml) – The star ingredient, bringing a burst of tropical flavor; opt for fresh or frozen mangoes.
¾ cup thickened cream (180ml) – Adds richness and creaminess; coconut cream works well for a delightful dairy-free alternative.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract – A touch of warmth to elevate the flavor; it’s optional, but highly recommended!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Panna Cotta

Step 1: Prepare Gelatine
In a small saucepan, sprinkle 1½ teaspoons of powdered gelatine over ½ cup of water. Allow the gelatine to sit for about 3 minutes to soften, which is essential for achieving that smooth, creamy texture in your Mango Panna Cotta.

Step 2: Dissolve Gelatine
Place the saucepan over low to medium heat and gently stir the mixture until the gelatine dissolves completely, which should take about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it boil, as boiling can compromise its gelling properties, ensuring your panna cotta sets perfectly.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients
Once the gelatine is dissolved, add ¼ cup of sugar to the saucepan, stirring until it’s fully dissolved. Then, pour in 1¼ cups of mango purée and ¾ cup of thickened cream, along with ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix gently to create a uniform mixture, avoiding incorporating any air bubbles that might affect the texture.

Step 4: Pour into Molds
Carefully transfer the luscious mango mixture into ramekins or jars, filling them to about ¾ cup capacity for optimal setting. Use a ladle or a measuring cup for precision, and ensure that each container is clean and dry for a beautiful presentation of your Mango Panna Cotta.

Step 5: Chill
Place the filled molds in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 3 hours. For the best flavor and texture, consider making your Mango Panna Cotta a day in advance. This allows the dessert to set firmly, and the flavors to deepen wonderfully.

Step 6: Serve
Before serving, you may lightly grease the molds with cooking spray to make unmolding easier. To serve, gently invert each panna cotta onto a plate or enjoy them straight from the jars. This refreshing dessert will delight your guests with its vibrant color and delicious tropical taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Mango Panna Cotta treats are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to prepare a delightful dessert up to 24 hours in advance. You can mix the gelatine, sugar, mango purée, cream, and vanilla, then pour them into molds, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This gives the flavors time to meld, resulting in an even more luscious dessert. Just remember to lightly grease your molds to make serving easier later on. When you’re ready to impress your guests, simply unmold the panna cotta and top with fresh fruit or coulis for a picturesque presentation. Enjoy the beauty of a creamy tropical dessert with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with Mango Panna Cotta?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings, ensuring a feast that delights the senses.

Tropical Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits like pineapple, kiwi, and berries add a burst of color and freshness, perfectly complementing the mango flavor.
Coconut Macaroons: Chewy, sweet treats that echo the tropical theme, balancing the creamy panna cotta with delightful crunch and sweetness.
Lime Sorbet: A refreshing, tart palate cleanser that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the Mango Panna Cotta and invigorates the taste buds.
Ginger Cookies: Soft, spiced cookies provide a warm, zesty finish, enhancing the tropical fruits’ brightness while inviting a cozy warmth to your meal.
Sparkling Water with Mint: Crisp and refreshing, this beverage not only hydrates but also delivers a hint of mint that elevates each spoonful of dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: A rich dark chocolate sauce drizzled atop adds depth and richness that perfectly balances the light, fruity notes of the panna cotta.
Coconut Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened coconut cream offers added creaminess, enhancing the dessert’s tropical vibe and smooth texture.
Pistachio Crumble: Crunchy and slightly salty, this adds texture and a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the panna cotta, making each bite more enjoyable.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mango Panna Cotta

Avoid Boiling: Make sure the gelatine mixture never reaches a boil. Boiling can ruin its gelling ability, leading to a watery dessert instead of a perfectly set Mango Panna Cotta.
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, always opt for ripe fresh mangoes when making the purée. This enhances the tropical taste and natural sweetness of your panna cotta.
Chill Wisely: Allow at least 3 hours to chill the panna cotta. For optimum flavor, prepare it a day in advance, letting it develop all those wonderful tropical notes.
Don’t Skimp on Greasing: Lightly greasing your ramekins can make all the difference when it comes to serving. It will ensure your Mango Panna Cotta releases easily, keeping that beautiful shape intact.
Experiment with Flavors: While mango is divine, feel free to mix it up! Try adding other fruit purees, like passion fruit or coconut, for a unique take on this classic dessert.

Mango Panna Cotta Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Mango Panna Cotta experience with these tasty twists!

Passion Fruit: Swap in passion fruit purée for a tart, tropical flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the panna cotta.
Coconut Cream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan-friendly option that will still feel luxurious and rich.
Berry Bliss: Top your panna cotta with fresh mixed berries or a luscious berry coulis for a splash of color and flavor.
Minty Fresh: Add a hint of fresh mint to the cream for an invigorating herbal note that brightens up each spoonful.
Spiced Delight: Incorporate a touch of ground cardamom or cinnamon to enhance the tropical vibes with warm, aromatic spices.
Fruit Layering: Layer different fruit purees, like mango and raspberry, for a stunning visual effect and a delightful burst of contrasting flavors. Consider pairing it with a mango float for a double-tropical treat!
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent finish, drizzle melted chocolate over the panna cotta just before serving. It adds an unexpected yet delightful twist that all chocolate lovers will adore!
Chili Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper on top for a surprising flavor contrast that will awaken your taste buds.

How to Store and Freeze Mango Panna Cotta

Fridge: Store your Mango Panna Cotta in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in airtight containers, for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and delicious for your next sweet craving.
Freezer: While panna cotta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Mango Panna Cotta, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Avoid microwaving directly as it may alter the texture.
Serving: For the best experience, serve your panna cotta chilled. If you’ve frozen it, allow it to set in the fridge post-thawing to restore its smooth consistency.

Mango Panna Cotta Recipe FAQs

What kind of mangoes are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For your Mango Panna Cotta, the best mangoes are the ones that are ripe, juicy, and sweet. Look for mangoes with a vibrant golden skin and a slight give when gently pressed, which indicates ripeness. If you can’t find fresh mangoes, frozen mango purée works wonderfully too!

How long can I store Mango Panna Cotta in the fridge?
You can store your Mango Panna Cotta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any other odors from the fridge.

Can I freeze Mango Panna Cotta? If so, how?
Very! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze your Mango Panna Cotta for up to 1 month. Wrap each panna cotta tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Avoid microwaving directly as this can spoil the texture.

What should I do if my panna cotta doesn’t set properly?
If your Mango Panna Cotta doesn’t set, it’s likely because the gelatine didn’t dissolve correctly or the mixture boiled during preparation. To troubleshoot, gently reheat the mixture, ensuring it’s warm but not boiling, then add another sprinkle of dissolved gelatine to the warm mixture. Stir until combined, pour into molds, and let it chill again.

Is this Mango Panna Cotta safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! To make the Mango Panna Cotta suitable for dietary restrictions, opt for coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, always check that the gelatine you’re using is sourced from non-animal origins if you’re following vegetarian or vegan diets (consider using agar-agar as a substitute). Always consult packaging for potential allergens.

Can I add other flavors or toppings to my Mango Panna Cotta?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can mix in other fruit purees like passion fruit or guava for a twist. Topping it with fresh slices of fruit, a drizzle of coulis, or even a sprinkle of coconut can elevate the visual appeal and flavor. Enjoy experimenting!