If you have a soft spot for creamy desserts that bring a little caffeine kick, this Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe is the perfect treat to make and enjoy. Silky smooth with just the right hint of espresso flavor, this Italian classic transforms simple ingredients into an elegant, no-bake dessert that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a special occasion or an everyday indulgence, the balance of rich cream and coffee makes every spoonful utterly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe couldn’t be easier. Each component plays a vital role in creating that luscious, velvety texture and the warm coffee undertone that define this dessert. From the richness of the cream to the subtle touch of vanilla, every item enhances the overall flavor and mouthfeel.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Provides the creamy base essential for that smooth, rich panna cotta texture.
- ½ cup whole milk: Lightens the cream slightly to create the perfect balance without sacrificing richness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to complement the bitterness of the coffee.
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder or strong instant coffee: Delivers the delicious coffee flavor that defines this dessert.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and adds depth to the flavor profile.
- 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) unflavored gelatin: Gives the panna cotta its characteristic silky set without being too firm.
- 3 tablespoons cold water: Used to bloom the gelatin, ensuring smooth incorporation.
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional): Perfect finishing touches for added indulgence and presentation.
How to Make Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Begin by sprinkling the unflavored gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl. Let it bloom for about 5 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial because it softens the gelatin granules, allowing them to dissolve evenly in the warm cream mixture later, which guarantees that silky texture you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and instant espresso powder. Stir gently until the sugar and coffee dissolve completely and the mixture becomes hot—just below boiling point. This heating process not only melts the sugar but also helps infuse the coffee flavor throughout the cream.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Gelatin
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, adding a lovely aromatic hint. Next, pour in the bloomed gelatin and stir thoroughly until it fully dissolves into the warm cream. This slow incorporation is key to preventing any lumps and ensuring the panna cotta sets with a perfect, creamy consistency.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Carefully pour the panna cotta mixture into 4 to 6 serving glasses or ramekins, depending on your preferred serving size. Place them in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 4 hours—or better yet, overnight—to allow the dessert to fully set and develop that signature wobbly firmness.
How to Serve Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
Garnishes
When it’s finally time to serve, a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top elevate the Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe to new heights. The creaminess complements the coffee’s bitterness while the chocolate adds a touch of indulgence and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This panna cotta pairs beautifully with delicate biscotti or crunchy almond cookies, which provide a delightful textural contrast. For a fruity twist, fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also accompany the dish nicely, balancing the richness with a bit of natural sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try unmolding the panna cotta onto a pretty dessert plate by briefly dipping ramekins in warm water before inverting them. You can also layer the coffee panna cotta with chocolate mousse or whipped mascarpone in clear glasses for a luxurious multi-layered dessert experience that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover coffee panna cotta should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in airtight containers in the fridge. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert for any occasion.
Freezing
While freezing panna cotta isn’t typically recommended due to its delicate texture, you can freeze it if necessary. Use airtight containers and consume within a month. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator to minimize texture changes, though some slight separation might occur.
Reheating
Since panna cotta is best served cold and set, reheating is generally not advised. If the dessert has softened in the fridge, simply give it some extra chilling time to firm up again before serving to restore its ideal texture.
FAQs
Can I use brewed espresso instead of instant espresso powder for this Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe?
Absolutely! Substituting with ¼ cup of strong brewed espresso will add a fresh coffee flavor; just reduce the milk slightly to maintain the right liquid balance.
How long does it take for the panna cotta to set properly?
You’ll want to chill the panna cotta in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal for the creamiest, firmest texture.
Is this Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I prepare the panna cotta in advance for a party?
Definitely! Coffee panna cotta is a perfect make-ahead dessert that you can prepare a day or two before your event, saving you time and stress on the day itself.
How can I unmold the panna cotta if I want to serve it on a plate?
Dip the ramekins in warm water for 5 to 10 seconds to loosen the edges, then carefully invert onto a serving plate. This method helps release the panna cotta with a clean shape and minimal fuss.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe enough if you love desserts that are rich, smooth, and packed with coffee flavor. It’s wonderfully simple to make yet feels special enough for any celebration or cozy night in. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy coffee in dessert form!
Print
Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus 4 hours chilling time
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Coffee Panna Cotta is a silky smooth, creamy Italian dessert infused with rich espresso flavor. Made with heavy cream, milk, sugar, and instant espresso powder, it sets perfectly with gelatin to create a luscious no-bake treat that’s elegant yet easy to prepare. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, it’s an indulgent dessert perfect for coffee lovers.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder or strong instant coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Toppings (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it bloom for 5 to 10 minutes until it softens and thickens.
- Heat the 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 and espresso powder completely dissolve, and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the mixture with a warm aromatic note.
- Dissolve Gelatin: Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm cream mixture and stir thoroughly until the gelatin fully dissolves into the liquid.
- Pour and Chill: Pour the mixture evenly into 4 to 6 serving glasses or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is completely set and has a firm yet creamy texture.
- Serve: Optionally, top each panna cotta with whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving for an added touch of decadence.
Notes
- You can substitute brewed espresso for the instant powder by using ¼ cup strong brewed espresso and reducing the milk slightly to maintain the liquid balance.
- To unmold panna cotta from ramekins, briefly dip the ramekins in warm water for 5 to 10 seconds and then invert onto a plate to release the dessert cleanly.
