Whipped Coconut Lime Panna Cotta
Silky coconut panna cotta infused with fresh lime zest and juice, topped with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist. This mediterranean-inspired desserts (gluten free) ready in about 15 minutes layers (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar 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 280 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.
Ingredients
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp cold water
- 2 tsp lime zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, sprinkle 1 tbsp gelatin powder over 3 tbsp cold water and let bloom for 5 minutes.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling (about 5 minutes).
- Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
- Step 4: Add 2 tsp lime zest and 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, stirring to combine.
- Step 5: Pour the mixture evenly into 4 serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Step 6: Just before serving, sprinkle each panna cotta with 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes for a crunchy contrast.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Whipped Coconut Lime Panna Cotta take to make?
Total time is about 15 minutes (10 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 Whipped 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 Whipped 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 Whipped 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.
Is Whipped Coconut Lime Panna Cotta gluten free?
Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
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