This Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe Will Blow Your Mind

Discover the elegance of Coffee Panna Cotta! This creamy dessert combines espresso and chocolate for a delightful finish to any meal.

If you’re a coffee lover with a sweet tooth, you’re in for a treat! This Coffee panna cotta recipe gives you a luscious, creamy dessert that combines the rich flavor of coffee with the silky texture of panna cotta, making it an absolute showstopper for any occasion. Originating from the beautiful region of Piedmont in Italy, panna cotta translates to “cooked cream” and has become a beloved dessert around the globe.

What makes this coffee panna cotta recipe so special is its simplicity. While the ingredients are minimal, getting the texture right requires a bit of finesse. Too much gelatin and it turns rubbery; too little and it won’t hold its shape. But don’t worry – with this detailed guide, you’ll create a flawless dessert that looks stunning and tastes divine.

What Is Panna Cotta?

Panna cotta, meaning “cooked cream” in Italian, is a dessert that embodies simplicity and sophistication. It has been a staple of Italian cuisine for centuries, originating from the lush Piedmont region known for its high-quality dairy. At its core, panna cotta is made by gently simmering cream, sugar, and gelatin, then allowing the mixture to set into a soft, custard-like consistency. Its light, velvety texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect ending to any meal.

... and why do we love it?

One of the reasons panna cotta remains so beloved is its versatility. The base recipe is like a blank canvas that can be customized to suit any palate or occasion. Infusions of vanilla beans, zesty citrus peels, or fragrant herbs like rosemary and lavender can transform the dessert into a uniquely flavored creation. Seasonal fruits, from bright berries in summer to poached pears in winter, pair beautifully with its creamy richness.

For those who love bold flavors, coffee panna cotta is a game-changer. Combining the deep, aromatic notes of espresso with the silky creaminess of panna cotta creates a dessert that feels indulgent yet balanced. The slight bitterness of the coffee cuts through the sweetness. Making it an ideal treat for sophisticated palates. This variation is especially popular among coffee enthusiasts. Those who appreciate how the dessert showcases the depth and complexity of espresso.

The secret key is the gelatin

Creating the perfect panna cotta requires attention to detail, particularly when it comes to dissolving the gelatin. Ensuring the mixture is smooth and free of lumps is key to achieving its signature texture. Once set, a well-made panna cotta should have a delicate wobble, signaling the right balance of creaminess and firmness.

Whether served plain with a drizzle of caramel, topped with fresh fruit, or infused with bold flavors like coffee, panna cotta is a dessert that never goes out of style. Its elegance and adaptability make it a timeless favorite, reminding us that sometimes, the simplest things are the most extraordinary.

Ingredients for a Perfect Coffee Panna Cotta

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this irresistible dessert:

2 gelatin sheets - For the perfect wobble and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1 vanilla bean - Adds a layer of warmth and depth to the flavor.
50 g dark chocolate (coffee-flavored if possible) - A decadent addition that complements the espresso beautifully.
50 ml brewed espresso - The star ingredient, infusing the dessert with rich coffee flavor.
Coffee beans - For garnish, adding a touch of elegance.

Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating a balanced, flavorful dessert. The dark chocolate enhances the coffee, while the vanilla bean rounds out the bitterness. The result? A dessert that feels as sophisticated as it tastes.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe

Ready to bring this masterpiece to life? Let’s dive into the process.

Prepare the Gelatin and Vanilla – Start by soaking the gelatin sheets in cold water for 5–10 minutes. Meanwhile, slice the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Set both the seeds and the pod aside.
Melt the Chocolate and Brew the Espresso – Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and brew your espresso. Set both aside – you’ll need them in the next step.
Heat the Cream Mixture – In a small saucepan, combine the cream, chocolate pieces, brewed espresso, and the vanilla seeds and pod. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is just about to boil, stirring gently to ensure the chocolate melts completely. Remove the vanilla pod once the flavors are infused.

Add the Gelatin – Squeeze out the gelatin sheets to remove excess water, then stir them into the hot cream mixture until completely dissolved. This step is crucial for achieving that signature panna cotta texture.
Mold and Chill – Rinse your molds with cold water and pour in the cream mixture. Place the molds in the refrigerator and let them set overnight or for at least 4 hours. Patience is key – the longer it sets, the better the texture.
Serve and Garnish – To unmold, dip the bottom of each mold in hot water for a few seconds, then gently loosen the panna cotta with a knife. Flip onto a dessert plate and garnish with chocolate-covered coffee beans for an elegant finish.

Who Should Try This Recipe?

This coffee panna cotta is perfect for anyone who loves coffee or wants to impress guests with a sophisticated dessert. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a cozy family gathering, or a solo treat for yourself, this recipe fits every occasion.

If you’ve been following our blog for a while, you already know that my love for coffee is rivaled only by my passion for desserts. Honestly, though, as much as I adore indulging in sweet treats, there comes a time in life when these little indulgences leave their mark – quite literally – on the body. Let’s just say my own journey with desserts has been one of love and, well, visible consequences. I think you can guess what I mean! 😊

So, a few years ago, I started seeking out lighter desserts. You know, the kind you can enjoy with that magical belief that their lightness might just translate into fewer calories. That’s when my travels to Italy brought an entirely new perspective to my dessert game. Not only did I fall in love with the food (because who doesn’t swoon over a plate of fresh pasta?), but the desserts were a revelation.

Looking for light desserts

You know, the kind you can enjoy with that magical belief that their lightness might just translate into fewer calories. That’s when my travels to Italy brought an entirely new perspective to my dessert game. Not only did I fall in love with the food (because who doesn’t swoon over a plate of fresh pasta?), but the desserts were a revelation.

I still vividly remember my first encounter with Italian desserts during a trip to Florence. The simplicity yet boldness of Italian cuisine left an indelible mark on me. From the creamy layers of tiramisu to the silky smoothness of panna cotta, I was utterly enchanted. Each dessert was a symphony of flavors and textures, artfully balanced and unapologetically indulgent.
It’s no wonder that Italian desserts have a way of stealing hearts worldwide. They’re more than just sweets; they’re a celebration of life itself. And if you’re like me, always ready for a culinary adventure, this coffee panna cotta recipe will feel like a mini getaway to Italy. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes after the first bite, transporting you to a sun-drenched piazza with the aroma of fresh espresso in the air.

So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this recipe together. Trust me, it’s not just a dessert - it’s an experience.

Variations to Try

The beauty of panna cotta is how versatile it can be. Here are some exciting twists to explore:

Latte Panna Cotta – Swap the espresso for a milder coffee flavor by using a shot of latte. It’s creamier and lighter, perfect for those who prefer subtle coffee notes.
Espresso Panna Cotta with Caramel Drizzle – Add a layer of indulgence by drizzling caramel sauce over the panna cotta before serving. The sweet and bitter contrast is divine.
Mocha Panna Cotta – Incorporate a teaspoon of cocoa powder into the cream mixture for a chocolatey twist on this coffee classic.
Spiked Coffee Panna Cotta – For an adult-only version, add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Baileys to the cream mixture. It’s a dessert and nightcap in one!

For an adult-only version, add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Baileys to the cream mixture. It’s a dessert and nightcap in one!

Final Thoughts

Coffee panna cotta is more than just a dessert – it’s an experience. Its rich flavor, creamy texture, and elegant presentation make it a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a treat for yourself, this recipe promises to impress.

So, why not give it a try? Let the combination of espresso and cream transport you to an Italian café. Share your creations, experiment with variations, and most importantly, enjoy every bite.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with fellow coffee enthusiasts and check back for more exciting desserts. Buon appetito!

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Coffee Panna Cotta

Indulge in a silky Coffee Panna Cotta, blending rich espresso and dark chocolate for a sophisticated dessert that's pure bliss!

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Prep Time 25

Chilling time 4

Total Time 4 25

Course Dessert

Cuisine International

Servings people

Equipment

Espresso Machine
Saucepan
Bolws

Ingredients

2 pcs gelatin sheets
1 pc vanilla bean
200 ml whipped cream
50 g dark chocolate (coffee-flavored if possible)
50 ml brewed espresso
coffee beans

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin and Vanilla

Start by soaking the gelatin sheets in cold water for 5–10 minutes. Meanwhile, slice the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Set both the seeds and the pod aside.

Melt the Chocolate and Brew the Espresso

Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and brew your espresso. Set both aside – you’ll need them in the next step.

Heat the Cream Mixture

In a small saucepan, combine the cream, chocolate pieces, brewed espresso, and the vanilla seeds and pod. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is just about to boil, stirring gently to ensure the chocolate melts completely. Remove the vanilla pod once the flavors are infused.

Add the Gelatin

Squeeze out the gelatin sheets to remove excess water, then stir them into the hot cream mixture until completely dissolved. This step is crucial for achieving that signature panna cotta texture.

Mold and Chill

Rinse your molds with cold water and pour in the cream mixture. Place the molds in the refrigerator and let them set overnight or for at least 4 hours. Patience is key – the longer it sets, the better the texture.

Serve and Garnish

To unmold, dip the bottom of each mold in hot water for a few seconds, then gently loosen the panna cotta with a knife. Flip onto a dessert plate and garnish with chocolate-covered coffee beans for an elegant finish.

Notes

The beauty of panna cotta is how versatile it can be. Here are some exciting twists to explore:

Latte Panna Cotta: Swap the espresso for a milder coffee flavor by using a shot of latte. It’s creamier and lighter, perfect for those who prefer subtle coffee notes.

Espresso Panna Cotta with Caramel Drizzle: Add a layer of indulgence by drizzling caramel sauce over the panna cotta before serving. The sweet and bitter contrast is divine.

Mocha Panna Cotta: Incorporate a teaspoon of cocoa powder into the cream mixture for a chocolatey twist on this coffee classic.

Spiked Coffee Panna Cotta: For an adult-only version, add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Baileys to the cream mixture. It’s a dessert and nightcap in one!

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This Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe Will Blow Your Mind