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Coffee Panna Cotta – A Rich Italian Dessert with Caffeine
Maya Bennett

Coffee Panna Cotta – A Rich Italian Dessert with Caffeine

A smooth, jiggly Italian dessert infused with bold espresso flavor. Silky and customizable, this elegant panna cotta is quick to make and perfect for gatherings. Halal-certified with plant-based alternatives.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • Cold water, 0.25 cup
  • Unflavored gelatin, 1 tablespoon (use agar-agar, 1.5 tsp, for vegan)
  • Whole milk, 1 cup (use oat milk for dairy-free)
  • Cane sugar, 0.5 cup (swap with 4 tbsp maple syrup or coconut sugar)
  • Vanilla extract, 1 tsp
  • Kosher salt, 0.125 tsp (optional)
  • Espresso, 0.5 cup (use strong brewed coffee or 1 tbsp espresso powder dissolved in 1/3 cup water)
  • Heavy cream, 2 cups (use vegan substitute for dairy-free)

Method
 

  1. Combine gelatin with cold water in a small bowl. Let rest 10 minutes until spongy.
  2. Heat milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves (5-6 minutes). Remove from heat.
  3. Add bloomed gelatin to milk mixture, stir until fully dissolved. Cool to room temperature.
  4. Whisk in espresso (or coffee) until fully incorporated. Churn in heavy cream for a silky texture.
  5. Pour into ramekins or serving cups. Refrigerate 4 hours until firm.
  6. Top with whipped cream (optional) before serving.

Notes

For a vegan version, use agar-agar and oat milk.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set properly.
Customize with coffee liquefies (non-alcoholic if required), cocoa powder, or caramel swirls.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.