Silky smooth, indulgent, and eggless — this Chocolate and Biscoff Panna Cotta is the ultimate dessert for those who love a rich, layered treat without the fuss of gelatin. Using agar agar, a plant-based gelling agent derived from seaweed, this recipe offers a firm yet melt-in-your-mouth texture that sets beautifully without refrigeration worries. The deep, bittersweet notes of dark chocolate pair perfectly with the spiced caramel warmth of Biscoff, creating a visually stunning and flavor-packed dessert. Ideal for dinner parties or an elegant finish to a cozy meal, these layered panna cottas are as easy to make as they are to impress.
What is Agar Agar?
Agar agar is a natural, plant-based gelling agent made from red algae (a type of seaweed). It’s completely vegetarian and often used in place of gelatin, which is animal-based. In powdered form, it’s easy to use — just dissolve it in liquid and bring it to a boil to activate its setting power.
Why I Loved Using Agar Agar (Especially the First Time!)
This was my very first time using agar agar, and honestly, I loved it — here’s why:
- Sets Quickly: No overnight chilling needed! Agar agar sets at room temperature and firms up within 30–60 minutes once cooled.
- No Gelatin, No Worries: It’s 100% vegetarian and doesn’t have any aftertaste like gelatin sometimes does.
- Clean, Smooth Finish: The panna cotta had a beautiful, clean cut and maintained its shape perfectly, yet it remained soft and creamy on the spoon.
- Heat-Stable: Unlike gelatin, agar agar doesn’t melt easily once set. That makes it perfect for warm-weather desserts, too!
If you enjoy desserts like this recipe, don’t miss our Eggless Dark Chocolate Biscoff Cake for another rich and decadent treat.
Why You Should Make This Dessert:
This no-bake layered panna cotta is the ultimate quick-fix indulgence. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and no gelatin or eggs, it sets in under two hours and looks like something straight out of a fancy café. The creamy Biscoff layer brings warmth and caramel spice, while the silky chocolate adds richness—together in one glass, they’re pure magic. Perfect for dinner parties or when you just want to treat yourself
For a quick and crunchy delight, try our Biscoff Bark recipe—perfect for easy snacking with all the flavors you love!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Method (Make Separately, Then Assemble):
- 🔸 Step 1: Make the Biscoff Layer
- In a small saucepan, combine cream and milk.
- Heat the mixture and let it simmer. Stir in melted Biscoff spread until smooth. Sprinkle agar agar powder, mix vigorously, let it thicken, it will come to a slight simmer, and take it off the flame.
- Pour this into tilted glasses (use a muffin tray or towel roll to tilt them) or just pour straight if you want even layers.
- Chill for 30–40 minutes or until softly set.
- 🔸 Step 2: Make the Chocolate Layer
- Repeat the same method: heat cream + milk and stir in melted chocolate until smooth. Add the agar agar once it thickens, and it simmers once take it off the heat.
- Once the Biscoff layer is set, gently pour the chocolate layer on top.
- Chill again for at least 2 hours to fully set both layers.
- ✨ Serving Suggestion:
- Top with crushed Biscoff biscuits or chocolate shavings.
- Serve chilled straight from the glass.
