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Indulge in a guilt-free Italian dessert with this easy Low Fat panna cotta recipe! This strawberry and coconut-flavoured, creamy, and refreshing treat offers all the richness of traditional panna cotta while using healthier alternatives including veg gelatin Agar Agar.
By replacing heavy cream with coconut cream and using natural sweeteners, we keep it light without compromising on texture or flavor. Perfect for those who love a smooth, delicate dessert that melts in your mouth, this panna cotta is easy to prepare and makes for a stunning yet simple indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free option or just a healthier twist on a classic, this low fat Italian dessert recipe is a must-try!
Related: Guilt-Free Sweetness: 10 Best Low Fat Italian Desserts to Try
| Prep Time: 30 mins |
| Cook Time: 10 mins |
| Setting Time: 1 hour |
| Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins |
| Course: Dessert |
| Cuisine: Italian |
| Calories: 200 kcal per serving |
Ingredients
For Low Fat Panna Cotta:
- 100g low-fat milk
- 100g coconut cream (or fresh cream if preferred)
- ½ tsp (1.25g) agar-agar powder (or gelatin if preferred)
- 40g (2 tbsp) zero-calorie caster sugar
- 1g granulated sugar (to mix with agar-agar)
For the Strawberry Compote:
- 200g fresh strawberries (chopped)
- 1 tbsp zero-calorie sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Low Fat Panna Cotta Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Panna Cotta Mixture
- Take 100g of low-fat milk and pour it into a saucepan.
- Add 100g of coconut cream (or fresh cream) and mix it with the milk.
- Stir in 2 tbsp of zero-calorie caster sugar to keep it light and healthy.
- In a small bowl, mix 1g agar-agar powder with 1g granulated sugar. Agar-agar is a plant-based alternative to gelatin, but you can use gelatin if preferred.
Step 2: Cooking the Mixture
- Turn on the stove and heat the milk and coconut cream mixture until it starts to simmer.
- Turn off the heat and immediately add the agar-agar and sugar mix.
- Stir continuously to fully dissolve the agar-agar into the hot liquid.
- Turn the heat back on for 10 seconds, allowing the agar-agar to cook properly.
- Once the mixture starts slightly thickening, turn off the heat.
Step 3: Setting the Panna Cotta
- Pour the mixture into silicone moulds or glass containers.
- Place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set properly.
Step 4: Preparing the Strawberry Compote
- Take 200g of fresh, chopped strawberries and place them in a saucepan.
- Add 1 tbsp zero-calorie sugar and cook on low heat until the strawberries soften and release their juices.
- Stir continuously and cook until it reaches a jam-like consistency.
- Turn off the heat and add 1 tsp lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
- Let the mixture cool, then blend it into a smooth compote.
Final Assembly
- Unmold the panna cotta from the silicone mold (if using glasses, keep them as they are).
- Pour the strawberry compote over the panna cotta, letting it drip beautifully on the sides.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and blueberries for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Tips for the Perfect Low Fat Panna Cotta
1- Achieve the Right Texture
- Stir the agar-agar well to prevent lumps in the mixture.
- Don’t overcook; agar-agar sets at room temperature but firms up better in the fridge.
2- Choose High-Quality Ingredients
- Use fresh coconut cream for a creamy, rich flavor.
- Select ripe strawberries for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
3- Enhance the Presentation
- Serve in transparent glass cups to showcase the layers beautifully.
- Add a sprig of mint or a dusting of coconut flakes for a professional touch.
FAQs About Panna Cotta
Q1-What is panna cotta made of?
Ans- Panna cotta is a classic Italian dessert made of cream, sugar, and a setting agent like gelatin or agar-agar. It is flavored with vanilla, fruits, or coffee for variation.
Q2-Can panna cotta be made without gelatin?
Ans-Yes! You can substitute gelatin with agar-agar, a plant-based alternative derived from seaweed, making it vegetarian-friendly.
Q3-Why does panna cotta separate?
Ans-Separation occurs if the ingredients are not mixed properly or if the setting agent is not fully dissolved. Ensuring a smooth and well-incorporated mixture prevents this issue.
Q4-Can panna cotta be frozen?
Ans-Yes, but freezing can slightly alter its texture. If you do freeze it, thaw it in the refrigerator before serving for the best consistency.
Q5-What does panna cotta taste like?
Ans-Panna cotta has a silky, creamy texture with a delicate sweetness. Its flavour varies depending on the ingredients used, such as vanilla, coffee, or fruit purees.
Q6- How healthy is panna cotta?
Ans-Traditional panna cotta is rich in fat and sugar, but lighter versions using coconut milk, low-fat cream, and natural sweeteners make it a healthier dessert option