Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
If you’ve been searching for a showstopping dessert that’s impossibly silky, gently jiggly, and brimming with the bold flavors of your morning brew, then Coffee Panna Cotta is about to become your new obsession. This swoon-worthy Italian classic brings together the deep aroma of espresso with the luscious richness of cream, all set into an elegant no-bake custard. Perfect for dinner parties or for treating yourself after a long day, every spoonful delivers pure decadence without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the Panna Cotta:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder or strong instant coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 teaspoons unflavored gelatin (1 packet)
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Optional Toppings:
- whipped cream
- chocolate shavings
- cocoa powder
- coffee beans
How to Make Coffee Panna Cotta
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
In a small bowl, evenly sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes without stirring—this gentle patience allows the gelatin to “bloom,” soaking up the water and preparing to dissolve seamlessly into the creamy base. If you’ve ever had lumpy panna cotta, this step is the antidote!
Step 2: Create the Creamy Coffee Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, blend together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and instant espresso powder or instant coffee. Stir constantly as the mixture heats up—your goal is to warm everything thoroughly so the sugar and coffee melt right in, but not to let the mixture boil. Once it’s steamy, smooth, and deliciously fragrant, remove the pan from the heat.
Step 3: Add Vanilla & Dissolve the Gelatin
Stir the vanilla extract into the hot cream mixture for that classic flavor lift. Now, gently whisk in your bloomed gelatin, ensuring it dissolves completely. Give it a minute or two—this care guarantees a luxuriously satiny finish, free from any grainy bits.
Step 4: Pour & Chill
Carefully pour the now silky-smooth mixture into individual ramekins or pretty serving glasses, dividing it evenly. Let the filled containers cool to room temperature on the counter before covering and sliding them into the refrigerator. Allow the Coffee Panna Cotta to chill for at least 4 hours. This is when the magic happens—the mixture transforms from liquid to a delicately set dessert with just the right jiggle.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Once fully set, your Coffee Panna Cotta is ready to steal the show! Dress it up with your favorite toppings—think gorgeous swirls of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, or that extra dusting of cocoa powder. Every bite is pure delight!
How to Serve Coffee Panna Cotta
Garnishes
When it comes to finishing touches, simplicity sings. A generous cloud of lightly sweetened whipped cream, a scattering of dark chocolate shavings, or a playful dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder all complement the velvety coffee flavor beautifully. For a fun coffeehouse feel, try crowning each panna cotta with a single roasted coffee bean.
Side Dishes
Coffee Panna Cotta shines solo, but pairing it with fresh berries or crisp biscotti offers a vibrant contrast in color and texture. The pop of tart fruit or the snap of a crunchy cookie makes each spoonful even more exciting, transforming this dish from a simple treat into an Italian-inspired dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Break out your prettiest glassware—espresso cups, small mason jars, or coupe glasses all turn this make-ahead dessert into an eye-catching centerpiece. For special occasions, try unmolding the panna cotta onto a plate and decorating with artful zigzags of chocolate sauce, a drizzle of caramel, or edible gold dust for a restaurant-worthy finale.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Coffee Panna Cotta (lucky you!), simply cover each ramekin tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay silky, fresh, and flavorful for up to three days—perfect for indulging your sweet tooth throughout the week.
Freezing
Although panna cotta’s delicate texture can change when frozen, it’s doable in a pinch. Freeze the set, un-garnished desserts wrapped tightly for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and expect a slightly firmer texture.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for Coffee Panna Cotta, since it’s meant to be served cold. If you’d like to loosen the panna cotta to unmold it, briefly dip the ramekin’s bottom in hot water for 5 to 10 seconds—just until the edges release.
FAQs
Can I make Coffee Panna Cotta dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream and whole milk for full-fat coconut milk and your favorite dairy-free cream. The texture and flavor remain luscious, with just a subtle coconut twist.
What can I use instead of instant espresso powder?
You can use very strong brewed espresso or strong coffee, but reduce the milk or cream a bit to compensate for the added liquid. Adjust sweetness as needed, since brewed coffee may taste more bitter than instant.
Why isn’t my panna cotta setting?
Usually, this means the gelatin didn’t dissolve completely or there wasn’t enough gelatin. Make sure to bloom the gelatin thoroughly and whisk until melted, and stick to the measured amounts in the recipe.
How can I unmold Coffee Panna Cotta neatly?
Run a thin knife around the edge, then dip the bottom of the ramekin in hot water for just a few seconds. Place a plate over the ramekin and gently invert; a gentle shake should release the dessert in one beautiful piece.
Can I infuse other flavors into this dessert?
Definitely! Try steeping cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, or even orange zest with the cream. Strain before adding the gelatin, and you’ll have a Coffee Panna Cotta with a completely unique twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about Coffee Panna Cotta that makes every gathering or quiet night in feel a little more special. If you love coffee and crave dreamy, no-fuss desserts, this one deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire. Invite a friend over or whip up a batch for yourself—the creamy, coffee-kissed rewards are waiting!
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Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Coffee Panna Cotta, a luxurious Italian dessert infused with the bold flavor of espresso. This no-bake treat is perfect for coffee lovers looking for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients
For the Panna Cotta:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder or strong instant coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 teaspoons unflavored gelatin (1 packet)
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Optional Toppings:
- whipped cream
- chocolate shavings
- cocoa powder
- coffee beans
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it bloom for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Panna Cotta Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and espresso powder. Stir until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat, add vanilla extract, and dissolve bloomed gelatin.
- Chill and Serve: Pour the mixture into ramekins, cool to room temperature, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Serve chilled with optional toppings.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk and a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Adjust coffee strength to taste for a bolder or milder flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 panna cotta
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
