Description
This Passion Fruit Panna Cotta (No Gelatin) is a dreamy, tropical dessert that’s silky-smooth, lightly sweet, and bursting with bright, tangy passion fruit flavor. Instead of using gelatin, this recipe relies on agar-agar or cornstarch to achieve that classic panna cotta texture—making it perfect for vegetarians and anyone avoiding animal-based ingredients. It’s refreshing, elegant, and surprisingly easy to make at home.
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Ingredients
For the Panna Cotta Base:
1¼ cups whole milk or coconut milk
1¼ cups heavy cream or plant-based cream
⅓ cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp agar-agar powder or 1½ tbsp cornstarch
Pinch of salt
For the Passion Fruit Topping:
½ cup passion fruit pulp (fresh or frozen, with or without seeds)
2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp water
½ tsp cornstarch (optional, for slight thickening)
Optional Add-Ins or Variations
Coconut cream for a tropical twist
Lemon zest in the base for added brightness
Mint leaves or edible flowers for garnish
Layered with mango puree for a fruit medley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Panna Cotta Base
In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, sugar, salt, and vanilla.
Add agar-agar or cornstarch and whisk until fully dissolved.
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, whisking frequently.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes (for agar) or until slightly thickened (for cornstarch).
Remove from heat and let cool for a minute.
Step 2: Pour into Molds
Divide the mixture evenly into ramekins or dessert cups.
Let cool slightly at room temperature.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
Step 3: Make the Passion Fruit Topping
In a small saucepan, combine passion fruit pulp, sugar, and water.
Heat gently until the sugar dissolves and mixture is warmed.
Optional: Stir in ½ tsp cornstarch mixed with a little water for slight thickening.
Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 4: Assemble & Chill
Spoon the passion fruit topping over each set panna cotta.
Chill again for 15–30 minutes, uncovered or loosely covered.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh mint, edible flowers, or a twist of lime zest.
Serve cold and enjoy the tropical burst in every spoonful!
Notes
Whisk constantly – Prevents clumps with agar or cornstarch
Use full-fat ingredients – Helps achieve a creamy texture
Strain passion fruit – If you prefer a smoother topping
Cool before refrigerating – Prevents condensation on the surface
Double the batch – These go fast, and keep well for a few days
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-Tropical Fusion