If you’re searching for an irresistibly creamy dessert with a sophisticated twist, Coffee Panna Cotta is about to become your new obsession. This Italian favorite blends silky smooth cream, rich notes of coffee, and just the right touch of sweetness for a treat that feels both elegant and comforting. With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, Coffee Panna Cotta offers impressive flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes every spoonful a tiny celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the Panna Cotta:
- 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
For Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
How to Make Coffee Panna Cotta
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Begin by sprinkling the unflavored gelatin evenly over three tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 5–10 minutes. You’ll notice the gelatin granules swell up and thicken—this step, called “blooming,” is vital for a smooth and lump-free panna cotta.
Step 2: Heat the Cream Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and instant espresso powder. Place it over medium heat, and stir frequently—watch as the sugar and coffee dissolve, filling your kitchen with that incredible coffee aroma. Continue heating until the mixture is hot but not boiling (think steamy and just beginning to bubble around the edges).
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Gelatin
Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract. Now, add the bloomed gelatin to the warm cream mixture. Whisk steadily until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Take your time with this step; any undissolved gelatin could affect the luscious texture you’re after.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Carefully pour the silky Coffee Panna Cotta mixture into your chosen serving glasses or ramekins, dividing it evenly. Let them cool to room temperature for a few minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator. Give them at least 4 hours (or overnight, if you’re planning ahead) to fully set. The result? A dessert that wiggles just the right amount when you jiggle the glass!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once set, your Coffee Panna Cotta is ready for its final flourish. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle some chocolate shavings over the top for a touch of drama and sweetness. Serve chilled, and revel in the delighted sighs around your table.
How to Serve Coffee Panna Cotta
Garnishes
When it comes to toppings, Coffee Panna Cotta shines with a crown of lightly sweetened whipped cream and a scattering of chocolate shavings. You might also add a dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of coffee liqueur, or a few chocolate-covered espresso beans to add visual flair and even more flavor.
Side Dishes
This creamy dessert pairs beautifully with a crisp biscotti or almond tuile for a satisfying contrast in texture. For an after-dinner treat that feels extra indulgent, serve alongside a small glass of dessert wine or a freshly pulled shot of espresso.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, layer your Coffee Panna Cotta in clear glasses with a thin ribbon of dark chocolate sauce or salted caramel in between. Want to unmold them for a dramatic restaurant-style look? Just briefly dip the bottoms of your ramekins in warm water and invert onto chilled plates before garnishing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), simply cover each panna cotta with plastic wrap and keep them chilled in the refrigerator. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for prepping ahead.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal for most panna cotta recipes because it can alter the silky texture, Coffee Panna Cotta can be frozen in a pinch. Wrap each ramekin tightly with plastic and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, but keep in mind that the cream may separate slightly during the process.
Reheating
Panna cotta is best savored cold, straight from the fridge—so no reheating required! In fact, gentle coldness enhances that tempting, creamy mouthfeel and highlights the coffee’s aromatic notes.
FAQs
Can I make Coffee Panna Cotta dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and your favorite non-dairy milk, like almond or oat. Just be sure to use unflavored gelatin, or agar-agar for a vegan version, and expect a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
What’s the best way to unmold panna cotta from ramekins?
To unmold Coffee Panna Cotta neatly, dip the bottom of each ramekin in a bowl of warm (not hot) water for 5 to 10 seconds, then gently run a thin knife around the edge before inverting onto a plate. They should pop out with a delightful little jiggle!
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant espresso powder?
Absolutely! Replace the instant espresso powder with 1/4 cup of strong brewed espresso and reduce the amount of whole milk by the same amount. This swap gives your panna cotta an even fresher, barista-level coffee flavor.
How do I know when the gelatin is fully dissolved?
After stirring the bloomed gelatin into the warm cream mixture, the liquid should look smooth and completely lump-free. If you see any tiny grains, keep whisking a bit longer or gently rewarm the mixture until everything is completely dissolved.
Can I prepare Coffee Panna Cotta in advance for a dinner party?
Yes! Coffee Panna Cotta is the ultimate make-ahead dessert. Prepare and chill them up to two days before your event, then add your desired toppings just before serving for a dessert that’s as stress-free as it is spectacular.
Final Thoughts
If you adore coffee and crave a dessert that’s both luxurious and fuss-free, Coffee Panna Cotta brings effortless elegance right into your own kitchen. Give it a try and watch everyone swoon over this dreamy blend of creamy, coffee-kissed perfection—your next go-to treat could be waiting in your refrigerator!
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-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy and rich flavors of this Coffee Panna Cotta, a delightful Italian dessert perfect for coffee lovers. This no-bake treat is easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Panna Cotta:
- 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
For Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, sugar, and espresso powder over medium heat until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat, add vanilla extract.
- Add Gelatin: Stir bloomed gelatin into the cream mixture until dissolved.
- Set Panna Cotta: Pour mixture into glasses or ramekins. Chill for at least 4 hours until set.
- Serve: Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving.
Notes
- You can use brewed espresso instead of instant powder, adjusting milk quantity.
- To unmold, dip ramekins in warm water for easy removal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 panna cotta
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
