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!