The Best Vegan Panna Cotta

This post for the vegan panna cotta was first posted on the 23rd of January 2023.

A vegan panna cotta like this one it’s a simple take on the traditional panna cotta we all know and love. It retains all the panna cotta flavors like the berry sauce or strawberry coulis, depending on where you’d get your fix of it. But it’s still a creamy vegan panna cotta with coconut milk, delicious in its own way.

When I started looking into vegan cuisine, my main worry was always turning some of my favourite desserts into their vegan counterparts. And this vegan panna cotta is the confirmation that yes, you can indeed turn anything into a vegan dish! With January also being Veganuary, what better excuse than to dish out my secrets to you all?

If you are a lover of coconut, then this is the best option ever. And like any good panna cotta – whether that’s vegan or not – the topping also needs to be special, but simple and not too overpowering. So make sure to check this recipe for the best vegan panna cotta out because it will rock your socks off! You can also try and use almond milk, if you prefer, or even oat milk, but you will get a few different flavours going so bear this in mind when picking the milk.

We all know Pinterest is where all our time gets spent on whenever we have a second, right? I don’t know why but especially with the new year I am always fishing for inspiration. Not only for food and recipes, of course, but also for home decor and anything in between. And this vegan panna cotta came as a result of endless scrolling. Surprised, am I right?! Because with Veganuary in full swing and all, I was ready to try something different and this vegan panna cotta recipe is the only one you will need moving forward.

So it’s time to make the vegan panna cotta

It’s easy, has a total of 5 ingredients – excluding the topping – and you will make it in honestly 5 minutes. If this is not enough for you, I do not know what more you need. And for anyone you know who’s either vegan or dairy intolerant, this will be the perfect dessert to serve next time they come over for dinner. Even when unannounced! Come to find out why I say even unannounced – this dessert does deserve an Oscar of its own.

Even though we have plenty of vegan sweets and bakes, of course, like these Greek Kourabiethes, these apple cider donuts and even the most wonderful brioche. But also these vegan oat flour pancakes, these vegan hot chocolate cookies and these delicious vegan pumpkin brownies.

What is vegan panna cotta?

Panna cotta is a traditional Italian dessert made with sweetened cream, thickened with gelatine then moulded into shape. You can find it in most restaurants in Italy and it can either be plain or flavoured. From coffee to fruits, vanilla and even chocolate, you’ll be spoilt for choice. But, this case right here is where we transformed into a vegan dessert.

And while the ingredients of course need to change, the concept is the same. You will be able to thicken the cream using a different thickening agent and you’ll pour it into the shape you want it to take. Then, of course, you will also be able to give it flavour by adding toppings as we did in this case! Versatile, quick and easy to make, the vegan panna cotta is one you will need to keep close to you.

What is vegan panna cotta made of?

Of course, you cannot use normal cream in a vegan panna cotta. Nor can you use normal gelatine, as that is generally not vegetarian (let alone vegan!). So what ingredients will you need to grab for this recipe?

First off, is coconut milk, the one in a carton you’d be putting in your coffee or using in your shakes. Then you will need full fat coconut milk from a can, the one you would use for your curries and stir-fries. For sweetener, you will use either agave syrup or maple syrup. And for the thickening agent, we have gone with a combo of agar agar powder and corn starch.

Now, agar agar is extracted from seaweed and it gets processed into flakes, powders and sheets. It is very common in Asian cuisine and it’s also very commonly used as a flavourless vegan substitute for gelatine. We will be using the agar agar powder in this case. The name of it literally means gelatine or jelly – funny that right?

For the topping, then, we went with some raspberries and red currants. I cooked some quickly in a pan with some granulated sugar until this one melts, then smashed it with the bottom of a glass to remove all the big chunks. Easy peasy, just like I like it! Make sure you top the vegan panna cotta pots just before you serve them rather than way ahead so as not to spoil the long shelf life of the pots themselves.

Is coconut good for you?

Coconuts offer various health benefits. They’re rich in healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide a quick source of energy and may support weight management. Coconuts also contain fibre, vitamins, and minerals like manganese, copper, and selenium. Additionally, coconut products like coconut oil, milk, and flour are popular in many diets, including ketogenic and gluten-free diets.

However, moderation is key because coconuts are high in saturated fats, so consuming them excessively might not be advisable for everyone, especially those watching their saturated fat intake. As with any food, it’s best to incorporate coconuts into a balanced diet for optimal health benefits.

Here are some positives of coconut:

1. Nutrient-Rich: Coconuts are packed with essential nutrients like fibre, vitamins (such as C, E, B vitamins), and minerals (including manganese, copper, selenium, and iron);
2. Healthy Fats: They contain healthy fats, primarily medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide a quick source of energy and may support weight management;
3. Heart Health: Some research suggests that the MCTs in coconut may promote heart health by increasing good HDL cholesterol levels and reducing bad LDL cholesterol levels;
4. Antioxidant Properties: Coconuts contain antioxidants like phenolic compounds, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body;
5. Blood Sugar Control: The fibre content in coconuts can aid in blood sugar control by slowing down the release of glucose into the bloodstream;
6. Digestive Health: The fibre in coconut can promote digestive health by supporting regular bowel movements and feeding beneficial gut bacteria;
7. Skin and Hair Care: Coconut oil is widely used in skincare and haircare products due to its moisturizing and nourishing properties;
8. Immune Support: Some components of coconut, such as lauric acid, may have antimicrobial properties that could help support the immune system;
9. Versatility: Coconuts can be consumed in various forms, including coconut water, coconut milk, coconut oil, shredded coconut, and coconut flour, making it easy to incorporate into different recipes and dietary preferences;
10. Gluten-Free and Allergen-Friendly: Coconut is naturally gluten-free and is not a common allergen, making it suitable for people with gluten intolerance or allergies to nuts and dairy.

What ingredients do I need to make this vegan panna cotta?

Let’s delve into each ingredient and how they contribute to making this delicious vegan panna cotta:

1. Coconut Milk Cream: This is the creamy component of your panna cotta. Coconut milk cream provides richness and a smooth texture to the dessert. It’s extracted from the grated flesh of mature coconuts and has a naturally sweet, slightly nutty flavour. Opting for coconut milk cream adds a delightful coconut undertone to your panna cotta;
2. Coconut Milk: Similar to coconut milk cream, coconut milk adds more coconut flavour and creaminess to the dessert. It’s made by combining water with grated coconut flesh and then straining the mixture. Coconut milk contributes to the smooth consistency of the panna cotta while enhancing its coconut essence;
3. Agave Syrup: Agave syrup serves as the sweetener in your vegan panna cotta. It’s derived from the agave plant and is sweeter than refined sugar. Agave syrup adds sweetness without overpowering the other flavours, providing a delicate sweetness to the dessert. Additionally, using agave syrup keeps your panna cotta vegan-friendly;
4. Agar Agar Powder: Agar agar is a vegan substitute for gelatin, derived from seaweed. Agar agar powder – or agar agar flakes – acts as the gelling agent in your panna cotta, helping it set into a firm yet creamy texture. It’s dissolved in liquid and then heated to activate its gelling properties. Agar agar provides a stable structure to your panna cotta without the need for animal-derived ingredients;
5. Cornstarch: Cornstarch serves as a thickening agent in your panna cotta, helping to achieve the desired consistency. It’s made from the endosperm of corn kernels and is commonly used in vegan cooking and baking as a gluten-free alternative to flour. Cornstarch helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to the smooth, velvety texture of the panna cotta.

By combining these ingredients, you create a luscious vegan panna cotta that’s rich in coconut flavour, delicately sweetened, and perfectly set for a satisfying dessert experience.

How do I make this vegan panna cotta?

This vegan panna cotta is as easy as A B C. Why? Because it is a matter of putting everything in the pan, mixing and heating for a total of 5 minutes. If that is not perfect, I do not know what you expect from recipes anymore! This coconut panna cotta will honestly surprise your guests because it tastes like the real deal and looks like it too!

You will put the coconut milk and coconut cream in a pan and warm them over medium heat until the cream is completely dissolved. Then you will add the syrup of your choice and the mixture of agar agar powder and corn starch. Mix it all in well, then let it cook for up to 4 minutes and pour it immediately into the pots of your choice and let them cool completely. We left them out of the fridge until they got to room temperature, then moved them into the fridge overnight.

For the mixed berries sauce, we cooked it minutes before we were ready to serve and poured it still hot on top.

What does it taste like?

You need to think of a creamy and thick base if that makes sense. Panna cotta is such a difficult texture to explain! This vegan one is very much on the coconut side, a little hint of creamy yet so so good! Of all the panna cotta recipes I’ve tried, this one was very much… different!

• Texture: Panna cotta has a velvety smooth texture that delicately wobbles when gently shaken. It’s firm enough to hold its shape when unmolded but soft and creamy when scooped with a spoon. The texture is akin to silk, gliding effortlessly on the palate, leaving a satisfyingly creamy sensation;
• Flavour: The flavour of panna cotta is understated yet elegant. It carries a gentle sweetness, often infused with hints of whole vanilla bean or other flavourings like coconut, depending on the recipe. The primary taste is that of rich dairy (or in the case of vegan panna cotta, coconut) with subtle undertones of sweetness and any additional flavourings used. Panna cotta’s flavour is sophisticated and balanced, making it an excellent canvas for various toppings and accompaniments like strawberry sauce, lemon curd or fruit coulis.

Overall, panna cotta offers a delightful sensory experience, with its smooth, creamy texture and delicate, nuanced flavour. It’s a dessert that manages to be both indulgent and refined, making it a beloved treat for many.

Any tips and tricks?

First off, because it is such a quick recipe to whip up, I strongly recommend you gather all your ingredients and measure them before you start the cooking process. And the same goes for the pots or glasses you’ll be using to serve the vegan panna cotta. Why am I saying this? Because I had to learn the hard way and had to remake this a few times… duh!

When it comes to the milk, we have gone for coconut but you can try oat milk if that’s more your cup of tea. It might give the whole dish a different taste, but worth a shot for sure.

Also, you might decide to add some vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste to your pot as you are making panna cotta, and here it really depends on taste and how strong you like the vanilla flavour to come through. Let’s check these other tips together:

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since panna cotta is a simple dessert with few ingredients, using high-quality ingredients like fresh cream, coconut milk, and pure vanilla extract can significantly enhance its flavour;
2. Properly Bloom the Gelatin or Agar Agar: If you’re using gelatin or agar agar powder as a thickening agent, make sure to properly bloom it according to the package instructions. This step ensures that the gelatin or agar agar will dissolve smoothly into the mixture, resulting in a uniform texture;
3. Don’t Boil the Mixture: When heating the cream or coconut milk mixture, avoid boiling it. Bring it just to a gentle simmer to dissolve the sweetener and activate the thickening agent. Boiling can cause the mixture to curdle or develop a grainy texture;
4. Strain the Mixture: After heating the cream mixture, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or undissolved gelatin particles. This step helps ensure a smooth and creamy texture in the finished panna cotta;
5. Use Ramekins or Moulds: To achieve perfectly shaped panna cotta, use ramekins or moulds that have been lightly greased with a neutral oil. This will make it easier to unmold the panna cotta later without it sticking to the container;
6. Allow Sufficient Chilling Time: Panna cotta needs ample time to set in the refrigerator, usually at least 4 hours or overnight. Be patient and resist the temptation to unmold it too soon, as this can result in a runny consistency;
7. Unmold Carefully: When ready to serve, run a knife around the edge of each ramekin or mould to loosen the panna cotta. Dip the bottom of the container briefly in hot water to help release the panna cotta, then invert it onto a serving plate. Be gentle to avoid breaking or deforming the dessert;
8. Serve with Complementary Accompaniments: Panna cotta pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings, such as fresh berries, fruit coulis, caramel sauce, or toasted nuts. Consider adding a complementary element to enhance its flavour and presentation.

Shop the vegan panna cotta recipe post

What does panna cotta literally mean?

Well well well, what a beautiful classic Italian dessert you have right here! But what does panna cotta mean? Literally, panna is cream and cotta means cooked. So, cooked cream! This vegan panna cotta might not be exactly that since it’s a bit of a mix, but you get the gist, right?

Panna cotta is an Italian phrase that translates to cooked cream. Let’s break down the meaning of each component:

1. Panna: In Italian, “panna” means cream. It refers to the main ingredient of the dessert, which is typically heavy cream or a combination of cream and milk. The cream is heated and combined with other ingredients to create the smooth, creamy texture characteristic of panna cotta;
2. Cotta: “Cotta” comes from the Italian verb cucinare, which means to cook. In this context, “cotta” indicates that the cream is cooked or heated in the process of making the dessert. Cooking the cream allows it to thicken and set when combined with a gelling agent like gelatin or agar agar.

So, when you put “panna” and “cotta” together, you get “cooked cream.” This name accurately describes the preparation method of the dessert, which involves heating cream and then allowing it to set into a creamy, silky texture after chilling. Panna cotta is beloved for its simplicity, elegance, and luscious creamy consistency.

If you liked the recipe for this vegan panna cotta, and liked making vegan panna cotta, then look no further! We have plenty of recipes which are vegan, dairy free and gluten free!

As you savour each spoonful of this delectable vegan panna cotta, let it be a reminder that plant-based desserts can be just as indulgent and satisfying as their traditional counterparts. With the rich creaminess of coconut milk cream and the delicate sweetness of agave syrup, this dessert is a true celebration of nature’s bounty.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to a moment of culinary bliss, this vegan panna cotta is sure to impress. Experiment with different flavour variations, toppings, and accompaniments to make it your own signature dessert.

So go ahead, embrace the simplicity and elegance of this vegan panna cotta recipe. Allow its smooth texture and subtle flavours to captivate your senses and transport you to a realm of pure indulgence. After all, every spoonful is a celebration of compassion, creativity, and the joy of plant-based living.

Pin this vegan panna cotta recipe for later!