Last Updated on September 9, 2025
Mango panna cotta is a dessert that transports you straight to sun-soaked beaches with one delightful spoonful. When I first stumbled upon this dish, it became an instant favorite. The notion of creamy, silky panna cotta paired with the sweetness of ripe mango seemed too good to be true.
Let me share my journey into crafting this refreshing treat, the joy it brings, and some practical advice to help you make it a star at your table.
What is Mango Panna Cotta?
To put it simply, panna cotta is an Italian dessert made from cream, sugar, and gelatin. It’s smooth, luscious, and incredibly versatile. The word “panna cotta” translates to “cooked cream,” which is quite fitting. It has a rich yet light consistency, making it perfect for any occasion. When you whip in the tropical twist of mango, you get a delightful dish that’s both elegant and simple to create.
Imagine this: a velvety base gently infused with mango flavor, topped with a vibrant mango sauce. Each bite feels like a warm hug on a sunny day. Served chilled, it’s both refreshing and indulgent, striking that perfect balance.
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Why You’ll Love This Mango Panna Cotta
There’s a whole lot to love about mango panna cotta. Personally, it ticks all the boxes for a perfect dessert: it’s easy to make, stunning on the plate, and utterly delicious. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Easy to Prepare: If you’re anything like me, the last thing you want is a complicated recipe after a long day. Mango panna cotta comes together quickly, needing just a handful of ingredients.
Showstopper: People will marvel at your culinary skills. The presentation? Utterly Instagrammable!
Customizable: Feel free to make it your own. Whether you want a touch of spice from ginger or a hint of citrus from lime, the possibilities are endless.
A Crowd Pleaser: Whether serving at a family gathering or a dinner party, it’s the kind of dish that fits right in. This dessert shines any time of year.
The Ingredients
Now, let’s dive straight into what we need to whip up this tropical bliss.
For the Mango Sauce:
- 1 cup ripe mango, chopped into chunks: Use a sweet mango for the best flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional): Adds warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon fine granulated sugar: Enhances the mango’s natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice: Brightens up the sauce.
For the Rest of Panna Cotta:
- 1/3 cup whole milk: Creamy base for panna cotta.
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional): Enhances creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon powdered gelatin: This is what sets the panna cotta.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or double cream: For that luxurious mouthfeel.
- 1 tablespoon caster sugar: A touch more sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Making mango panna cotta is straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro when it’s done!
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin
To kick things off, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about five minutes. This process is called blooming the gelatin, and it’s essential for achieving that perfect set.
Step 2: Heat the Milk Mixture
In a saucepan, combine the whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat it gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm, but not boiling—around 160°F (70°C) is ideal.
Step 3: Incorporate the Gelatin
Once the milk mixture is warm, take it off the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm milk. Stir until the gelatin fully dissolves. It’s like blending magic ingredients!
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This step adds lightness to the panna cotta. Gently fold the whipped cream into the milk mixture using a spatula. Be careful! You want to keep that fluffy texture.
Step 5: Chill the Mixture
Pour the panna cotta mixture evenly into serving glasses. This is where patience comes in. Pop those glasses into the fridge and let them chill for at least four hours. The waiting is tough, but I promise it will be worth it!
Step 6: Make the Mango Sauce
While the panna cotta is chilling, it’s time to prepare the mango sauce. In a blender, combine the mango chunks, sugar, lime juice, and ginger (if using). Blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, pulse it a few times instead of blending completely.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the panna cotta is set, pour the mango sauce over each glass. You can garnish with mint leaves or extra mango pieces if you like. Now, dig in and enjoy the fruit of your efforts!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy pointers to ensure your mango panna cotta turns out perfect:
Use Ripe Mango: The sweetness and flavor of the mango greatly affect the sauce. Go for ripe, sweet varieties for the best results.
Don’t Skip the Gelatin: It’s crucial for the texture. Be sure to follow the blooming step; otherwise, the panna cotta may not set properly.
Check Your Cream: Heavy cream works best for that luxurious feel. Light cream may not yield the same results.
Chill Properly: Give the panna cotta enough time to set. It’s easy to rush, but patience is key!
Experiment with Flavors: Try infusing the base with different flavors, like coconut or lime, for added depth.
Nutrition Information
One serving of mango panna cotta (about 1/2 cup) roughly contains:
Calories: 220
Protein: 2.7g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 12g
These values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and ratios.
Can I Store Mango Panna Cotta?
Absolutely! Mango panna cotta can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just cover the glasses with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. I wouldn’t recommend freezing it, as the texture may change upon thawing.
What Can I Serve with Mango Panna Cotta?
Pairing is key. Here are a few ideas that would work beautifully with mango panna cotta:
Fresh Berries: A side of strawberries or blueberries adds a nice tartness.
Shortbread Cookies: They provide a delightful crunch and complement the creaminess.
Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate can heighten the experience.
Tropical Fruits: Think kiwi, pineapple, or even passion fruit for a fun contrast.
Whipped Cream: A dollop will enhance the richness and add a classic touch.
Variations
Here are some creative spins on this classic dessert:
Ginger Mango Panna Cotta: Add more freshly grated ginger to the base for a warming spice kick. This variation is perfect for those chilly evenings.
Coconut Mango Panna Cotta: Replace half the cream with coconut milk. The tropical flavors marry beautifully in this version.
Chili Mango Panna Cotta: Add a pinch of chili powder to the mango sauce for a kick. Sweet and spicy is a combo that’s hard to resist!
Minty Mango Panna Cotta: Infuse fresh mint in the cream as it heats. A fresh mint leaf on top adds a lovely presentation.
Raspberry Mango Panna Cotta: Swirl in raspberry puree before serving for a stunning visual. The tart berries bring a delightful contrast to the sweet mango.
Conclusion
There you have it—a tropical treat that’s as impressive as it is easy to make. Mango panna cotta will surely elevate any dining experience. It’s light, refreshing, and bursts with flavor. Whether it’s a sunny day or you want a taste of summer in winter, this dessert will deliver.
Your journey into making mango panna cotta will not only impress your guests but also bring a little sunshine into your kitchen. So grab those ripe mangoes, channel your inner Italian chef, and let the magic unfold! Happy cooking!
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Mango Panna Cotta – Easy Meal Recipe
Description
Mango panna cotta is a dessert that transports you straight to sun-soaked beaches with one delightful spoonful. When I first stumbled upon this dish, it became an instant favorite. The notion of creamy, silky panna cotta paired with the sweetness of ripe mango seemed too good to be true.
Let me share my journey into crafting this refreshing treat, the joy it brings, and some practical advice to help you make it a star at your table.
Ingredients
For the Mango Sauce:
For the Rest of Panna Cotta:
Instructions
-
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Making mango panna cotta is straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro when it’s done!
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin
-
To kick things off, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about five minutes. This process is called blooming the gelatin, and it’s essential for achieving that perfect set.
Step 2: Heat the Milk Mixture
-
In a saucepan, combine the whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat it gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm, but not boiling—around 160°F (70°C) is ideal.
Step 3: Incorporate the Gelatin
-
Once the milk mixture is warm, take it off the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm milk. Stir until the gelatin fully dissolves. It’s like blending magic ingredients!
Step 4: Whip the Cream
-
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This step adds lightness to the panna cotta. Gently fold the whipped cream into the milk mixture using a spatula. Be careful! You want to keep that fluffy texture.
Step 5: Chill the Mixture
-
Pour the panna cotta mixture evenly into serving glasses. This is where patience comes in. Pop those glasses into the fridge and let them chill for at least four hours. The waiting is tough, but I promise it will be worth it!
Step 6: Make the Mango Sauce
-
While the panna cotta is chilling, it’s time to prepare the mango sauce. In a blender, combine the mango chunks, sugar, lime juice, and ginger (if using). Blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, pulse it a few times instead of blending completely.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
-
Once the panna cotta is set, pour the mango sauce over each glass. You can garnish with mint leaves or extra mango pieces if you like. Now, dig in and enjoy the fruit of your efforts!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Total Carbohydrate 22g8%
- Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
- Sugars 12g
- Protein 2.7g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some handy pointers to ensure your mango panna cotta turns out perfect:
Use Ripe Mango: The sweetness and flavor of the mango greatly affect the sauce. Go for ripe, sweet varieties for the best results.
Don’t Skip the Gelatin: It’s crucial for the texture. Be sure to follow the blooming step; otherwise, the panna cotta may not set properly.
Check Your Cream: Heavy cream works best for that luxurious feel. Light cream may not yield the same results.
Chill Properly: Give the panna cotta enough time to set. It’s easy to rush, but patience is key!
Experiment with Flavors: Try infusing the base with different flavors, like coconut or lime, for added depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make mango panna cotta vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and skip the gelatin in favor of agar-agar, a seaweed-based alternative that sets similarly.
2. Can I use canned mango for the sauce?
You can use canned mango puree, but make sure it’s unsweetened to control the sweetness in the sauce. Fresh is always best, but in a pinch, canned products work too.
3. How do I know if my panna cotta is set?
It should feel firm to the touch yet still jiggle slightly in the middle when you give it a gentle shake. After chilling for at least four hours, it should have a smooth and creamy texture.
4. Can I flavor panna cotta with other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can infuse the milk with flavors like coffee, tea, or citrus peel. Just be mindful of balancing the sweetness.
5. What should I do if my panna cotta doesn’t set?
If your panna cotta doesn’t set after chilling, it’s likely due to insufficient gelatin. If you find yourself in this bind, gently reheat the panna cotta mixture and add a bit more bloomed gelatin, then chill again.
