A silky coconut panna cotta at 367 calories. Set with yogurt for tang, finished with toasted coconut shards.
This Coconut Panna Cotta takes the classic Italian set cream dessert in a tropical direction, with coconut extract, plain yogurt, and a topping of oven-toasted coconut shards. At 367 calories and 7 WW Classic Points per serving, this is a rich, elegant dessert best served in modest portions after a lighter main course.
Recipe Info
Serves: 6 | Prep Time: 20 minutes plus chilling | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Calories per serving: ~367
Nutrition per Serving (Estimated)
Protein: 4g | Fat: 35g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fiber: 0.8g
WW Classic Points: Approximately 7 points per serving. Note: This estimate is based on the legacy WW points system and is provided as a general reference only.
Ingredients
- 500ml / 16 fl oz double cream
- 7.5 tablespoons granular sugar substitute, divided
- 2 teaspoons granulated gelatine
- 2 tablespoons water
- 250ml / 8 fl oz plain whole milk yogurt
- 1.5 teaspoons coconut extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 40g / 1.5oz unsweetened coconut shards
Instructions
- Heat the cream. Heat the cream and 6 tablespoons of the sugar substitute in a medium saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sweetener.
- Soften the gelatine. Sprinkle the gelatine over the water in a small cup and leave to stand for 5 minutes.
- Combine. Remove the cream from the heat and stir in the softened gelatine until fully dissolved. Cool until just warm.
- Add yogurt and coconut. Whisk in the yogurt, coconut extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Chill over ice. Set the mixture over an ice bath and stir until it reaches a thick, pourable batter-like consistency.
- Strain and set. Pour the mixture through a strainer into six custard cups. Cover with cling film and refrigerate until cold and fully set.
- Toast the coconut. Heat the oven to 150C / 325F / Gas Mark 2. Melt the butter in a baking tin in the oven, add the coconut shards, and toss to coat. Sprinkle with the remaining sugar substitute, toss again, spread out, and bake for 4 to 5 minutes. Cool.
- Unmould and serve. Turn out each panna cotta onto a plate and top with a tablespoon of toasted coconut shards.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a few slices of fresh mango or pineapple for a tropical touch
- A light drizzle of honey adds extra sweetness if desired
- Pair with a thin, crisp wafer biscuit
- Offer as an elegant conclusion to a lighter, fresh main course
- Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator
Tips and Variations
- Straining the mixture before it goes into the custard cups ensures a completely smooth, silky texture with no lumps.
- Working over an ice bath speeds the thickening process and helps the panna cotta set evenly.
- Toasting the coconut shards separately just before serving keeps them crisp and adds a satisfying textural contrast to the smooth panna cotta.
- To unmould cleanly, briefly dip the bottom of each custard cup in warm water before inverting onto a plate.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead, though the toasted coconut is best prepared fresh, close to serving time.
Why This Recipe Works
Panna cotta relies on a delicate balance of cream and gelatine to achieve its signature soft, wobbly set, and this recipe respects that balance carefully by chilling the mixture gradually over an ice bath before it goes into the moulds. Yogurt stirred into the cream base adds a gentle tang that keeps the dessert from tasting overly sweet or heavy despite its richness. The final touch of oven-toasted coconut shards provides essential crunch and reinforces the tropical coconut flavor throughout.
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toast fresh coconut shards close to serving time for the best texture.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and portion sizes used. This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dietary or medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for guidance tailored to your individual needs.
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