Description
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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Ingredients
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
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.
Notes
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
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian with Tropical Fusion