Description
Coffee Panna Cotta is a creamy, velvety Italian dessert with the perfect balance of rich coffee flavor and smooth, indulgent cream. This elegant treat is easy to make with just a few ingredients and no baking required, making it ideal for dinner parties, special occasions, or a delightful end to any meal. The combination of espresso or strong coffee and the silky texture of panna cotta creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and luxurious.
Ingredients
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk (or any milk of choice)
½ cup brewed strong coffee (or espresso)
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
3 tablespoons cold water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Whipped cream or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom (soften).
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling. Do not let it simmer.
- Remove the cream and milk mixture from the heat and stir in the brewed coffee or espresso. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot coffee cream mixture and stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved. If needed, return the mixture to low heat for a minute to help dissolve the gelatin, but don’t let it boil.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor (optional).
- Allow the coffee panna cotta mixture to cool slightly for 5-10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into individual serving cups, ramekins, or a large mold. Leave a little space at the top for garnish or whipped cream.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the panna cotta is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Once set, serve the panna cotta chilled. Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra flavor and elegance.
Notes
This dessert is ideal for making ahead of time. It needs to chill for at least 4 hours, so making it a day in advance is perfect.
If using instant coffee, make sure the coffee is strong enough to impart the desired flavor.
For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream and almond milk as substitutes for the cream and milk.
Top with a drizzle of caramel or a few coffee beans for extra flair.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
