Coffee Panna Cotta

Last updated on June 3, 2025

Coffee Panna Cotta is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of cream with the bold flavors of coffee. Originating from Italy, this creamy treat has captivated dessert lovers around the world. Its smooth texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect end to any meal, whether you’re serving a fancy dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The beauty of a panna cotta lies in its simplicity: it’s easy to prepare, yet it feels indulgent, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other dishes or simply relax and enjoy the ambiance.

In this article, we will explore not only the step-by-step process for making Coffee Panna Cotta but also the little details that make this dessert shine. Let’s get ready to dive deep into the world of this creamy, coffee-flavored delight.

Why You’ll Love This Coffee Panna Cotta

Coffee Panna Cotta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Here are a few reasons you’ll love making this dessert:

1. Simplicity: The recipe uses straightforward ingredients and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. Anyone can whip this up!
2. Versatility: You can serve it with various toppings, such as whipped cream or chocolate shavings, to elevate its presentation.
3. Make Ahead: It sets beautifully in the fridge, making it a perfect option for busy days or parties when you want to prepare in advance.
4. Impressive Presentation: The elegant look of panna cotta in ramekins makes it appear as though you spent hours in the kitchen, wow-ing your guests.
5. Coffee Lovers Delight: If you love coffee, this dessert will satisfy your cravings with its rich flavor.

By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with everything you need to create your own delicious Coffee Panna Cotta.

Coffee Panna Cotta

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Coffee Panna Cotta is a smooth and creamy Italian dessert infused with the rich flavor of espresso. Elegant and easy to make, it’s perfect for coffee lovers looking for a sophisticated yet simple treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• • 2 cups heavy cream: The base of the dessert, giving it a luxurious texture.
  • 1/2 cup whole milk: Lightens the cream slightly for balance.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten the dessert without overpowering the coffee.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder: Adds deep, bold coffee flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with warmth and depth.
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin: Sets the panna cotta to the perfect jiggle.
  • 3 tablespoons water: Used to bloom the gelatin before mixing.

 

• Optional Add-Ons:
• Whipped cream: Adds a light and fluffy topping.
• Chocolate shavings: For a touch of elegance and added flavor.

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Instructions

1. Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to bloom.
2. Heat the cream mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and espresso powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling. Remove from heat.
3. Add vanilla and gelatin: Stir in the vanilla extract. Then add the bloomed gelatin and whisk until completely dissolved.
4. Pour into molds: Pour the mixture into ramekins or small glasses. Let them cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
5. Serve: Serve chilled. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

• To easily unmold panna cotta, dip the ramekin in warm water for a few seconds and run a knife around the edge before inverting onto a plate.
• You can substitute brewed strong coffee for instant espresso powder if needed (reduce liquid accordingly).
• Adjust the sweetness to taste based on the strength of your coffee preference.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Chilled
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 panna cotta
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 35mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: coffee panna cotta, espresso panna cotta, Italian dessert, panna cotta recipe, no-bake dessert

Ingredients You’ll Need for Coffee Panna Cotta

To create this delightful dessert, gather the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream: This is the base of your panna cotta, providing a rich and creamy mouthfeel.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: This helps lighten the heavy cream, creating a balanced texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the panna cotta without overwhelming the coffee flavor.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder: Adds that rich coffee flavor that defines this dessert.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and adds a hint of warmth.

For the Gelatin

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin: This ingredient helps your panna cotta set up nicely.
• 3 tablespoons water: You’ll combine this with gelatin to help it bloom.

Optional Add-Ons

• Whipped cream: A light and airy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy panna cotta.
• Chocolate shavings: These add a touch of elegance and a bit of chocolate flavor to each bite.

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the detailed step-by-step instructions for making this luscious Coffee Panna Cotta.

How to Make Coffee Panna Cotta: A Step by Step Guide

Creating Coffee Panna Cotta is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to make your creamy dessert perfectly.

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

Start by preparing the gelatin. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes soft and slightly thickened. This process is essential, as it helps the gelatin dissolve evenly in the mixture later.

Step 2: Heat the Cream & Coffee

Next, grab a small saucepan and pour in your heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and instant espresso powder. Place it over medium heat. As it warms, whisk the mixture gently. You want to dissolve the sugar completely and ensure that the espresso powder is fully mixed without reaching a boil. Just warm it up until it’s steaming, and you’ll have the perfect base for your panna cotta.

Step 3: Add the Gelatin & Vanilla

Once your cream mixture is warm and well-mixed, remove the saucepan from the heat. It’s time to add in the bloomed gelatin. Whisk it in until it is completely dissolved—this should take just a minute or two. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and aroma, creating an inviting mixture.

Step 4: Pour into Ramekins & Chill

If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps. Then, pour the creamy mixture into ramekins or small cups. Cover each one with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on top. Place the ramekins in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. This time allows the panna cotta to set beautifully.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

When you’re ready to serve, take the ramekins out of the fridge. To release the panna cotta, dip the bottom of each ramekin in warm water for a few seconds. This will help loosen it. Carefully flip the ramekin onto a dessert plate, tapping gently if needed. Now, the panna cotta should glide right out! Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings if desired. Your guests will be impressed!

Step 6: Storage

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. Do not freeze panna cotta, as this will alter its smooth texture and ruin the creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions for Coffee Panna Cotta

Serving Coffee Panna Cotta can be as simple or as fancy as you want it to be! Here are some ideas:

1. With Fresh Berries: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side for a burst of color and flavor. Their acidity beautifully balances the richness of the panna cotta.

2. Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle some crushed almonds or hazelnuts on top for a lovely crunch. This element adds texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with coffee.

3. Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate over the top can add a delightful layer of indulgence. This can be done with dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference.

4. Coffee Syrup: For coffee enthusiasts, a light coffee syrup can be poured over the panna cotta right before serving, intensifying the coffee experience.

5. Layered Desserts: For a decorative touch, serve the panna cotta in clear glasses layered with coffee-flavored cake crumbs or cookie crumbles at the bottom. This also adds an interesting texture.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Coffee Panna Cotta

1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cream and fresh coffee. The better the ingredients, the tastier your panna cotta will be.

2. Don’t Overheat: Be cautious while heating the mixture. Keep it below boiling; too much heat can affect the texture and flavor of the panna cotta negatively.

3. Strain if Necessary: If you notice any lumps in your mixture after combining the gelatin, straining helps achieve that silky-smooth finish.

4. Gelatin Precision: Ensure that you bloom the gelatin correctly. If it doesn’t dissolve properly in the mixture, your panna cotta may not set.

5. Patience: Allow enough time for refrigerating. If you can, let it set overnight to obtain the best texture.

Easy Variations for Coffee Panna Cotta

While the classic Coffee Panna Cotta is delicious on its own, here are some simple variations you can try:

1. Mocha Style: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the cream mixture to create a mocha-flavored panna cotta.

2. Flavored Gelatin: Use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored. Consider a chocolate or hazelnut-flavored gelatin to complement the coffee.

3. Coconut Coffee Panna Cotta: Substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist.

4. Vanilla Bean: Use vanilla bean pods instead of extract for a deeper vanilla flavor. Just scrape the seeds into the mixture for an impressive presentation.

5. Coffee Liqueur: For an adult version, add a tablespoon or two of coffee liqueur, like Kahlua, to the creamy mix. This will enhance the coffee flavor and add a hint of sweetness.

Storage Tips for Coffee Panna Cotta

To keep your Coffee Panna Cotta fresh, here are some storage tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator in the ramekins or transfer to an airtight container if you prefer. It will last up to 3 days.

2. Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture, making it grainy instead of smooth.

3. Cover Well: When storing, make sure to cover tightly to prevent any odors from your fridge affecting the flavor of the panna cotta.

4. Toppings: If you plan to store with toppings like whipped cream or chocolate shavings, prepare and add them just before serving to keep them fresh.

5. Check Before Serving: If stored, give the panna cotta a gentle swirl before serving to restore its appearance.

Conclusion

Coffee Panna Cotta is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Each spoonful offers a delightful combination of creamy smoothness and rich coffee flavor that delights the palate. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can craft this impressive indulgence in your kitchen.

Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, taking the time to make Coffee Panna Cotta is always worth it. Its versatility lends itself to countless variations and serving styles, so feel free to get creative.

Now, armed with this detailed guide, it’s your turn to master this exquisite Italian dessert. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and watch your friends and family revel in your culinary success!

FAQs About Coffee Panna Cotta

Now go ahead and start creating your delightful Coffee Panna Cotta! Enjoy the journey and the delicious results.

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