Dairy-Free Italian Panna Cotta with Coconut Milk
This delightful Dairy-Free Italian Panna Cotta is a creamy, indulgent dessert made with rich coconut milk. It's perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet. The silky texture coupled with a hint of vanilla makes this dessert a must-try for any occasion.
Equipment
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 4 Ramekins or small cups
- 1 Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 can coconut milk - full-fat for creaminess
- 1/4 cup maple syrup - or sweetener of your choice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - pure for the best flavor
- 2 teaspoons agar-agar powder - for thickening
- 1/4 cup water - to dissolve agar-agar
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- In a small bowl, mix the agar-agar powder with the water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- Heat the coconut milk mixture over medium heat until warm (not boiling).
- Incorporate the agar-agar mixture into the warm coconut milk, whisking continuously until fully dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into ramekins or cups and let cool at room temperature.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Serve chilled, optionally topped with fresh fruit or a drizzle of syrup.
Notes
For variations, try adding different flavored extracts such as almond or lemon for a unique twist. You can also top it with fresh berries or a fruit coulis for added flavor.
A great tip is to let the panna cotta set overnight for the best texture and flavor. If you cannot find agar-agar, you can substitute it with gelatin (but this will not be vegan).