Make the Perfect Mango Panna Cotta

Make the Perfect Mango Panna Cotta

If you’re looking for a refreshing, elegant dessert that impresses with both taste and presentation, this step-by-step recipe for Mango Panna Cotta is exactly what you need. This Italian classic, with a tropical twist, is ideal for summer gatherings or a simple weekend indulgence. Let’s walk through the process of creating this creamy, fruity delight that’s bound to steal the show at any table.

What is Mango Panna Cotta?

Before we dive into the recipe, it’s important to understand what Mango Panna Cotta really is. ‘Panna cotta’ translates to ‘cooked cream’ in Italian, and the dessert typically involves sweetened cream thickened with gelatine and chilled until set. When paired with mango, the panna cotta gains a tropical zing, making it a fusion of silky texture and fruity flavour. The vibrant colour and the smooth finish make Mango Panna Cotta not just a treat for the palate but also for the eyes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To start making Mango Panna Cotta, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. This dessert doesn’t require any exotic or hard-to-find items, which makes it perfect for home cooks. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the panna cotta base:

• 300 ml double cream

• 200 ml full-fat milk

• 80 g caster sugar

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2½ tsp powdered gelatine (or 2 gelatine sheets)

For the mango layer:

• 2 ripe mangoes (pureed)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tbsp icing sugar

• 1 tsp powdered gelatine (or 1 gelatine sheet)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavour and consistency of your Mango Panna Cotta. Make sure to use ripe mangoes for a naturally sweet and robust taste.

Step 1: Preparing the Cream Mixture

The base of your Mango Panna Cotta begins with heating the cream, milk, and sugar. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the double cream, milk, and caster sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is heated through – but be careful not to let it boil. Add in the vanilla extract for a subtle aromatic layer.

Next, bloom your gelatine by sprinkling it over a few tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it swells. Once bloomed, stir it into the warm cream mixture until fully dissolved. This step is vital to ensure your Mango Panna Cotta sets properly with that signature wobble.

Step 2: Pour and Chill

Pour the cream mixture into individual serving glasses, filling them halfway. This will be the creamy base of your Mango Panna Cotta. Let them cool slightly before placing them in the fridge to chill for at least 3 hours, or until firm to the touch. While the cream sets, you can move on to preparing the mango layer.

Step 3: Making the Mango Layer

For the mango topping of your Mango Panna Cotta, blend the mangoes into a smooth puree. Add lemon juice and icing sugar to enhance the flavour and keep the colour vibrant. Just like before, bloom the gelatine and dissolve it into the warm mango puree. This step ensures that the mango layer sits neatly on top of the set cream without mixing.

Allow the mango mixture to cool to room temperature, then carefully pour it over the chilled panna cotta base. Return the glasses to the fridge and chill for at least another 2 hours. This final layer gives your Mango Panna Cotta a stunning golden finish and a refreshing fruity kick.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once fully set, garnish your Mango Panna Cotta with a mint leaf, mango slices, or even a sprinkle of desiccated coconut for added texture. Serve chilled for best results.

This dessert can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings. The combination of creamy richness and fruity sharpness makes Mango Panna Cotta a standout dessert that’s deceptively simple to make.

Tips for the Perfect Mango Panna Cotta

To ensure your Mango Panna Cotta turns out perfectly every time:

• Use full-fat cream for a luxurious texture.

• Ensure the gelatine is fully dissolved to avoid graininess.

• Allow each layer to set completely before adding the next.

By following these steps carefully, you’ll create a dessert that is both sophisticated and satisfying.

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