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If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug in a cup, you absolutely have to try this Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe. Silky, creamy, and infused with rich coffee flavor, this elegant Italian treat elevates simple ingredients into a luscious finish for any meal. It’s surprisingly easy to make, yet impressively sophisticated, making it one of my all-time favorite go-to desserts when I want something that’s both comforting and fancy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe plays a vital role, blending creaminess, sweetness, and that unmistakable coffee kick. They’re all everyday pantry staples that come together effortlessly to create this dreamy dessert.
- 2 1/2 cups heavy cream: Provides the rich, smooth base that makes panna cotta so indulgent.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Lightens the texture slightly while helping the gelatin bloom perfectly.
- 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee: Infuses the panna cotta with a robust coffee flavor that balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the coffee notes.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) unflavored gelatin: The essential thickening agent that sets the panna cotta into a delicate, jiggly dessert.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle warmth and depth.
How to Make Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin
Start by sprinkling the gelatin over the whole milk in a small bowl. Let it sit for about five minutes so the gelatin can bloom. This step ensures your panna cotta will set with that perfect, silky texture.
Step 2: Heat the Cream and Coffee Mixture
In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, brewed coffee, and granulated sugar. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves fully and the mixture is hot but not boiling. The coffee melds beautifully into the cream here, releasing its rich aroma.
Step 3: Combine Gelatin and Cream Mixture
Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until it’s completely dissolved. This step is crucial to avoid any lumps and ensure your panna cotta sets evenly. Stir in the vanilla extract last to round out the flavor.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the luscious mixture into individual ramekins or pretty serving glasses. Let them cool to room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator. Patience is key — chill for at least four hours until they’re fully set and delightfully jiggly.
How to Serve Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
Garnishes
Your Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe truly shines when topped with simple, thoughtful garnishes. Consider a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel for that perfect finishing touch. These add textures and flavors that complement the silky coffee dessert beautifully.
Side Dishes
While panna cotta is a lovely standalone dessert, pairing it with biscotti, almond cookies, or a small bowl of fresh berries can elevate your experience. These sides bring contrast in crunch and freshness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe in transparent glasses to showcase its velvety appearance, or layer it with coffee jelly or crushed espresso beans for a fun twist. You can even experiment with mini mason jars for a cute, rustic vibe perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover panna cotta refrigerated in an airtight container or covered ramekins to maintain its delicate texture. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal creaminess and coffee flavor.
Freezing
While panna cotta can be frozen, it’s not ideal because the texture may change upon thawing, becoming a bit grainy. If you choose to freeze it, wrap the containers well and thaw slowly in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes if it’s too firm right out of the fridge, which helps slightly soften the panna cotta without losing its form.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Absolutely! You can dissolve instant coffee in a little hot water to substitute brewed coffee. Just make sure it’s strong enough so the coffee flavor stands out in the panna cotta.
What if I don’t have unflavored gelatin?
Unflavored gelatin is key to getting the right texture, but if you can’t find it, powdered agar-agar can be a vegetarian alternative. Use according to package instructions, as it sets differently than gelatin.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes, swap heavy cream and whole milk for coconut cream and a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Note that the flavor and texture may be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
How long does it take for the panna cotta to set?
Generally, panna cotta needs at least four hours in the fridge to fully set. For the best texture, overnight chilling is even better.
Can I prepare the panna cotta in advance for a party?
Definitely! This Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe is perfect for making ahead. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator and garnish right before serving to keep everything fresh and gorgeous.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the velvety texture and bold coffee notes in this Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe. It’s a dessert that feels effortlessly elegant yet invitingly cozy. Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging in a quiet moment at home, this recipe deserves a place in your repertoire. Give it a try—you’re going to love every spoonful!
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Print
Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This elegant Coffee Panna Cotta is a creamy Italian dessert infused with rich brewed coffee and smooth vanilla, set to a perfect silky texture using unflavored gelatin. It’s an indulgent treat that’s easy to prepare and makes a sophisticated finish for any meal.
Ingredients
Liquids
- 2 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sweeteners and Gelling Agents
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) unflavored gelatin
Instructions
- Prepare the Gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the 1/2 cup of whole milk in a small bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes so the gelatin can bloom and absorb the milk, becoming soft.
- Heat the Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the 2 1/2 cups heavy cream, 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves completely and the liquid is hot but does not reach boiling point.
- Combine Gelatin and Cream Mixture: Add the bloomed gelatin mixture to the hot cream mixture and whisk vigorously until the gelatin dissolves fully and the mixture is smooth. Then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for added aroma and flavor.
- Pour Mixture and Chill: Ladle the mixture evenly into ramekins or serving glasses. Allow them to cool to room temperature before placing in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or until the panna cotta is set and has a creamy, jiggly texture.
- Serve: Once set, serve the Coffee Panna Cotta chilled. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or caramel sauce to enhance its flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure the cream mixture does not boil to prevent curdling and to maintain a silky texture.
- Use freshly brewed strong coffee for the best flavor infusion.
- The dessert needs at least 4 hours of refrigeration to fully set, preferably overnight for best results.
- Ramekins or small glasses can be used to serve individual portions elegantly.
- Optional garnishes such as whipped cream or chocolate shavings add texture and visual appeal.
