This Coffee Panna Cotta is the perfect mix of creamy, silky, and just the right amount of coffee flavor.
If you love coffee and desserts, this is the treat for you!
It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients, and you can prepare it ahead of time—perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in.
Let’s make it!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
- 3 tablespoons water
- Optional: whipped cream & chocolate shavings for garnish
Pro Tips
✅ Dissolve the gelatin completely – No one wants lumps in their panna cotta! Let it bloom fully before mixing.
✅ Use good-quality coffee – Since coffee is the star flavor, a high-quality espresso powder makes a big difference.
✅ Don’t let it boil – Keep the cream mixture warm but not bubbling, or the texture won’t be as silky.
✅ Chill long enough – At least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for the perfect set.
✅ Loosen it up! – To unmold easily, dip the ramekin in warm water for a few seconds, then flip onto a plate.
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Small bowl
- Ramekins or small glasses
- Plastic wrap
Substitutions & Variations
☕ Decaf option – Swap regular espresso powder for decaf.
🥛 Dairy-free – Use coconut cream and almond milk instead of heavy cream and whole milk.
🍮 Flavor boost – Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of Kahlúa for an extra twist.
🍫 Chocolate version – Stir in 2 tablespoons of melted dark chocolate for a mocha panna cotta.
Make-Ahead Tips
✔️ Make this a day ahead! It actually tastes even better after chilling overnight.
✔️ Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Make Coffee Panna Cotta
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it looks soft and slightly thickened.
Step 2: Heat the Cream & Coffee
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and espresso powder over medium heat. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the coffee is fully mixed in. Do not let it boil—just warm it up.
Step 3: Add the Gelatin & Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Pour into Ramekins & Chill
Strain the mixture through a fine sieve (optional) for extra smoothness, then pour it into ramekins. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
To serve, dip the bottom of each ramekin in warm water for a few seconds, then flip onto a plate. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
Leftovers & Storage
🥶 Store in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days.
⚠️ Do not freeze—it will change the texture.
Time to Dig In!
There you have it—an easy, creamy, coffee-flavored panna cotta that looks fancy but is so simple to make. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out in the comments! Did you add any fun toppings? 🍫☕💛
