Coffee Panna Cotta: A Silky and Indulgent Dessert

Name: Coffee Panna Cotta: A Silky and Indulgent Dessert
Prep time: 4 h 10 min
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: italian
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 ½ teaspoons (1 packet) unflavored gelatin; 3 tablespoons cold water; Optional: Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish

Posted OnMarch 15, 2025

A Perfect Blend of Coffee and Cream

Coffee Panna Cotta is a luxurious, silky-smooth Italian dessert infused with the deep, rich flavors of coffee. This elegant treat combines the creamy decadence of traditional panna cotta with the boldness of espresso, creating a perfectly balanced dessert that coffee lovers will adore. Whether served at a dinner party or as a personal indulgence, Coffee Panna Cotta is a simple yet sophisticated way to end any meal on a high note.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients – Requires just a handful of pantry staples like cream, sugar, gelatin, and coffee.
Easy to Make – Despite its elegant appearance, panna cotta is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Perfect for Coffee Lovers – The rich coffee flavor shines in every bite.
Make-Ahead Friendly – This dessert needs to chill for several hours, making it ideal for entertaining.

Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder (or ½ cup freshly brewed strong coffee)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 ½ teaspoons (1 packet) unflavored gelatin
3 tablespoons cold water
Optional: Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bloom the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and spongy.

2. Heat the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and espresso powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.

3. Add the Gelatin

Remove the saucepan from heat and add the bloomed gelatin. Stir until fully dissolved. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

4. Strain and Pour

For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. Pour the liquid into ramekins or serving glasses.

5. Chill Until Set

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is firm and jiggly.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Unmold the panna cotta onto plates or serve directly in the ramekins. Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.

Variations

Mocha Panna Cotta – Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate-coffee twist.
Dairy-Free Version – Substitute coconut cream and almond milk for a lactose-free alternative.
Sweetened with Honey – Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
Kahlúa-Infused – Stir in 1 tablespoon of coffee liqueur for an extra depth of flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Keep panna cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as it may alter the texture.
Reheating: This dessert is served cold, so no reheating is necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I unmold panna cotta easily?

Dip the ramekin in warm water for a few seconds, then run a knife along the edge before inverting onto a plate.

Can I use decaf coffee?

Yes! Decaf espresso or instant coffee works just as well without altering the flavor.

What if my panna cotta doesn’t set?

Ensure you used the correct amount of gelatin and allowed enough chilling time.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, but opt for full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture.

How strong should the coffee be?

The stronger, the better! Espresso or bold brewed coffee enhances the flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to two days in advance and keep it chilled.

Is panna cotta supposed to be jiggly?

Yes! A perfectly set panna cotta should wobble slightly but hold its shape.

Can I add a coffee liqueur?

Yes, adding liqueur like Kahlúa or Baileys enhances the coffee flavor beautifully.

How do I make it sweeter?

Increase the sugar slightly or drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

Can I serve it in a glass instead of unmolding?

Yes, serving panna cotta in glasses adds an elegant touch and eliminates the need for unmolding.

Conclusion

Coffee Panna Cotta is an effortlessly elegant dessert that combines the smooth richness of panna cotta with the bold aroma of coffee. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a refined make-ahead treat, this recipe delivers pure indulgence in every spoonful. Try it for your next dinner party or a cozy night in, and savor the perfect blend of creamy and caffeinated bliss.