Coconut-Lime Panna Cotta

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A smooth, creamy dessert infused with coconut and lime, set with agar for a light, jellied texture. This international-inspired desserts ready in about 20 minutes layers full-fat coconut milk, sugar, lime juice into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 130 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 5 min Serves 4 International cuisine 130 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups full-fat coconut milk, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tbsp lime zest. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm (about 160°F), but do not boil.
  2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, mix 1/4 tsp agar-agar powder with 1/4 cup cold water until dissolved and smooth.
  3. Step 3: Slowly whisk the agar mixture into the warm coconut milk mixture. Continue cooking over medium heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
  4. Step 4: Pour the mixture into four ramekins or glasses, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
  5. Step 5: Before serving, garnish with 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves and 4 thin lime slices.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Coconut-Lime Panna Cotta take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (15 min prep + 5 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Coconut-Lime Panna Cotta?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Coconut-Lime Panna Cotta?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Coconut-Lime Panna Cotta for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Coconut-Lime Panna Cotta?

International desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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