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Toasted Coconut Panna Cotta Recipe

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4.6 from 72 reviews

This Toasted Coconut Panna Cotta is a creamy, luscious dessert that combines the rich flavors of coconut milk and heavy cream with a delicate hint of vanilla. Topped with golden toasted coconut flakes, it offers a beautiful texture contrast and a tropical twist on the classic Italian panna cotta. Perfect for a refreshing, make-ahead treat that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

For the Panna Cotta

  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp gelatin powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

  • ¼ cup toasted coconut flakes

Instructions

  1. Toast Coconut Flakes: Heat a dry pan over medium heat and add the coconut flakes. Toast them, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit and bloom for about 5 minutes until it absorbs the water and becomes gelatinous.
  3. Heat Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved. Be careful not to bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Add Gelatin and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir the bloomed gelatin and the vanilla extract into the warm cream mixture until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  5. Refrigerate to Set: Pour the mixture evenly into serving cups or molds. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is firmly set.
  6. Serve: Once set, garnish the panna cotta with the reserved toasted coconut flakes and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Ensure the gelatin does not boil, as high heat can reduce its setting ability.
  • For a vegan alternative, agar-agar can be used instead of gelatin, but setting times and textures may vary.
  • Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture.
  • Panna cotta can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.