Passion Fruit Panna Cotta (No Gelatin)

This Passion Fruit Panna Cotta (No Gelatin) is a silky-smooth, tropical twist on the classic Italian dessert—without using gelatin! Light, creamy, and infused with the tart sweetness of passion fruit, this panna cotta sets beautifully with agar-agar, making it vegetarian-friendly and perfect for warm-weather entertaining or a sophisticated finish to any meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tropical Flavor – Bright, tangy passion fruit shines in every spoonful
No Gelatin Needed – Agar-agar sets the panna cotta perfectly
Light & Elegant – A smooth, creamy dessert that’s not too heavy
Make-Ahead Friendly – Ideal for dinner parties or special occasions
Dairy or Dairy-Free – Easily adaptable to suit your dietary needs

Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4–6)

For the Panna Cotta Base
1¾ cups whole milk (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
¾ cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream)
¼ cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp agar-agar powder (not flakes)

For the Passion Fruit Layer
½ cup passion fruit pulp (fresh or frozen, seeds strained if preferred)
2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
¼ cup water
½ tsp agar-agar powder

Optional Garnishes
Fresh passion fruit seeds
Mint leaves
Coconut flakes or white chocolate curls

Tools You’ll Need
Small saucepan
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving glasses or ramekins
Fine mesh strainer (if using fresh passion fruit)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Panna Cotta Base
In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla.
Sprinkle in 1 tsp agar-agar powder and whisk well to combine.
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes to activate the agar.
Remove from heat and pour the mixture evenly into serving glasses or ramekins.
Let cool at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, then chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours until set.

Step 2: Prepare the Passion Fruit Layer
In a clean saucepan, combine passion fruit pulp, sugar, water, and ½ tsp agar-agar powder.
Whisk to combine and bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently.
Simmer for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Let cool slightly (not too hot but still pourable), then spoon or pour gently over the set panna cotta base.
Return to the fridge and chill for another 1–2 hours until fully set.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve
Once fully chilled and set, top each panna cotta with fresh passion fruit seeds or a mint sprig for color.
Serve cold and enjoy the layered creaminess with a tropical burst.

Tips for the Best No-Gelatin Panna Cotta
Use Agar-Agar Powder – Not flakes, as they require a different ratio and cook time
Don’t Skip the Boil – Agar-agar must boil to activate and set properly
Cool Slightly Before Layering – Prevents mixing and maintains clean layers
Taste the Passion Fruit – Adjust sugar depending on tartness
Use Clear Glasses – For a beautiful layered presentation

Serving Suggestions
As a Dinner Party Dessert – Elegant and prepared in advance
In Mini Jars – Perfect for portion control and presentation
Paired with Coconut – Add toasted coconut for a tropical duo
With Fruit Garnish – Try kiwi, mango, or berries for color and flavor contrast
On a Dessert Board – Serve as part of a trio with mini tarts or mousse

How to Store & Make Ahead
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Best enjoyed cold
Not freezer-friendly as the texture may change after thawing

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruit instead of passion fruit?
Yes! Mango, raspberry, or pineapple puree all work beautifully—just adjust sweetness as needed.

What is agar-agar and where can I find it?
It’s a natural setting agent from seaweed, found in health food stores or the baking aisle of Asian supermarkets.

Can I use low-fat milk or cream?
You can, but full-fat versions give the best creamy texture.

What’s the difference between agar powder and flakes?
Agar powder is much more concentrated; 1 tsp powder equals about 1 tbsp flakes. Always follow specific measurements.

Is this dessert vegan?
It can be! Use plant-based milk and cream to make a 100% vegan panna cotta.

Final Thoughts
This Passion Fruit Panna Cotta (No Gelatin) is a stunning dessert that delivers the perfect balance of creamy and fruity, all without animal-based ingredients. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to something light and tropical, this make-ahead dessert is a guaranteed success.

Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite summer dessert.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 3–4 hours
Cuisine: Italian with Tropical Fusion

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 190 | Protein: 2g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 40mg

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