Name: Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder (or strong brewed espresso); 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin; 3 tablespoons cold water; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Whipped cream; Chocolate shavings

Description

Coffee Panna Cotta is a smooth, creamy Italian dessert infused with rich espresso flavor. This no-bake treat combines heavy cream, milk, sugar, and espresso powder set with gelatin for a delicate, elegant finish perfect for coffee lovers. Garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, it’s a sophisticated, easy-to-make dessert that’s ideal for making ahead and impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder (or strong brewed espresso)
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
3 tablespoons cold water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish (optional)

Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings

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Instructions

Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit undisturbed for 5–10 minutes until it softens and blooms.
Heat cream mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and instant espresso powder. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
Dissolve gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until it fully dissolves into the hot cream mixture. Add the vanilla extract and mix well to combine.
Pour and chill: Pour the mixture evenly into 4 to 6 small ramekins or serving glasses. Allow them to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until the panna cotta is fully set.
Serve: For serving, optionally garnish each panna cotta with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. To unmold, briefly dip the bottoms of the ramekins in hot water for a few seconds and invert onto serving plates for a refined presentation.

Notes

You can substitute decaf espresso or brewed coffee to make a caffeine-free version.
This panna cotta pairs wonderfully with chocolate drizzle or biscotti on the side for additional texture and flavor contrast.
Best prepared a day ahead to allow the flavors and texture to fully develop.