Can you make panna cotta without gelatin?

Absolutely. You can make panna cotta without gelatin by replacing gelatin with agar-agar powder , a plant-based thickener derived from seaweed. It sets beautifully, creating a smooth and creamy dessert that’s completely vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Agar-agar is easy to use, stable at room temperature, and doesn’t require animal-based ingredients, making it perfect for anyone avoiding gelatin for dietary or ethical reasons.

Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin for panna cotta?

Yes, and it’s one of the best swaps you can make. Agar-agar performs almost the same job as gelatin, but it needs to be boiled to activate. Use 1 teaspoon of agar-agar powder per 2 cups of liquid for a soft, custard-like texture. The result is a firm yet delicate panna cotta that holds its shape beautifully while remaining smooth and creamy.

What can be used instead of gelatin?

Aside from agar-agar, you can use cornstarch , arrowroot , or pectin depending on the recipe. For a panna cotta recipe without gelatin , agar-agar is the top choice because it mimics gelatin’s texture most closely. However, for other desserts, cornstarch thickens custards and puddings, while pectin works best for jams and jellies.

How to make panna cotta at home without gelatin?

Making panna cotta without gelatin at home is easy. Combine cream (or a dairy-free alternative), milk, sugar, and agar-agar powder in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil for one to two minutes to activate the agar-agar. Add vanilla or flavorings, pour into molds, and chill for about two hours until set. The result is a creamy, elegant dessert that tastes just like the traditional version but without animal ingredients.

Why doesn’t my panna cotta set properly?

If your panna cotta without gelatin doesn’t set, it’s usually because the agar-agar wasn’t boiled long enough. Agar must reach a full boil to activate. Also, ensure you’re using powdered agar-agar , not flakes, since flakes require longer cooking times. Double-check your measurements—too little agar can leave your dessert soft, while too much can make it rubbery.

Is panna cotta vegan if it doesn’t use gelatin?

Not always. To make a truly vegan panna cotta recipe without gelatin , you must also replace dairy cream and milk with plant-based options like coconut cream, almond milk, or oat milk. When both gelatin and dairy are substituted, your panna cotta becomes 100% vegan and suitable for any diet or preference.

Panna Cotta Recipe Without Gelatin: The Best Creamy Dessert

Description

A rich and creamy panna cotta recipe without gelatin, made with agar-agar for an easy vegan and allergy-friendly dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)

1 cup milk (or almond/oat/soy milk)

1/4 cup sugar (or coconut sugar/maple syrup)

1 tsp agar-agar powder (not flakes)

1 tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)

Optional: pinch of salt, citrus zest, or fresh berries

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix agar-agar powder with 1/4 cup of milk and let sit for 5 minutes.

2. In a saucepan, combine the remaining cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves.

3. Add the agar-agar mixture, bring to a low boil for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.

4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and optional flavorings.

5. Strain mixture through a fine sieve for smooth texture.

6. Pour into molds. Cool 15 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.

7. Serve chilled with berries, syrup, or compote.

Notes

Use agar-agar powder, not flakes. Always boil to activate agar. Adjust agar slightly for desired firmness. Great with fruit, coconut, or chocolate variations.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Chill
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 panna cotta
Calories: 180
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg