Coffee Panna Cotta is a simple, elegant dessert that is the perfect complement for a dinner party or to simply have on hand for a special treat anytime. Panna cotta is quick and simple to make, and can be made well in advance making it ideal for entertaining. My version features the classic pairing of coffee and cream topped with a rich and smooth chocolate ganache. For another delicious option for this creamy dessert, try my Earl Grey Panna Cotta.
Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made by heating gelatin together with milk, cream and sugar until it sets into a creamy custard. I always prefer to use natural sweeteners so my version of panna cotta uses maple syrup as a healthier and tastier alternative to sugar. The infusion of espresso powder adds a delicious sophistication to this dessert. For other make ahead dessert ideas, try my Healthy Chocolate Pudding, Strawberry Mint Ice Cream, and Cottage Cheese Lemon Mousse.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- very quick and easy to make
- make ahead to simplify prep for guests
- made with gelatin which contains the nutritional benefits of collagen
- subtle and sophisticated flavour of espresso and cream
- creamy smooth texture
- simple and beautiful presentation
- a light, refreshing finish to a meal
Ingredients
- Milk - use full fat milk for a creamy texture and extra nutrition
- Cream - use heavy cream (35%)
- Gelatin - allows the dessert to set and adds significant nutritional value
- Espresso powder - use the powder as it dissolves well
- Chocolate - be sure to use baker's chocolate as chocolate chips will not give the smooth texture when melted See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
Substitutions & Variations
- try low-fat milk if you prefer a lighter panna cotta
- instead of maple syrup, try honey, agave nectar or sugar
- try your favourite tea to infuse flavour, such as chai or fruity teas
- try adding ½ cup of chopped chocolate to the milk and cream mixture before heating
- make the classic vanilla panna cotta by adding an extra ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla instead of the Espresso powder
- make a fruity panna cotta by adding a dollop of pureed fruit such as raspberry or peach before heating the milk
- make it savoury by using herbs, spices and even cheese for a unique appetizer or side dish
I have not experimented with any other substitutions or alterations for this recipe. If you decide to make any changes by adding or substituting ingredients, I would love it if you could share your results with us by leaving a comment below.
How To Make Coffee Panna Cotta
Here are the step-by-step instructions to make this recipe.
Step 1: Dissolve espresso powder.
Place 2 tablespoon of espresso powder in ½ cup of hot water. Stir to dissolve.
Step 2: Bloom the gelatin.
Sprinkle the gelatin on top of the espresso. Make sure to let the gelatine bloom for at least 5 minutes, without stirring, so that the gelatin fully absorbs the liquid.
Step 3: Combine with remaining ingredients and heat.
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla and the espresso and gelatin mixture. Heat over medium-high heat until very hot, but not simmering. Whisk well to make sure the gelatin is well incorporated.
Step 4: Pour into dessert cups.
Divide the mixture evenly into your ramekins or small dessert bowls. This recipe makes 4 servings. Chill completely in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before adding the ganache topping.
Step 5: Top with chocolate ganache.
Heat the ½ cup heavy cream to a bare simmer and pour over the 2 oz of chocolate in a separate bowl. Stir until completely combined. Pour over the panna cotta.
Step 6 & 7: Chill and enjoy!
Refrigerate for at least two more hours or preferably overnight.
Your delicious Coffee Panna Cotta is ready to be enjoyed Serve as is or add a simple garnish such as fruit, an edible flower, chocolate shavings or a dusting of espresso powder.
Expert Tips
- Bloom the gelatin properly by letting it sit undisturbed on the liquid for at least five minutes.
- Use high quality sources for your milk, cream, gelatin and vanilla.
- Heat the mixture slowly over medium heat to dissolve the gelatin and avoid scorching.
- Don't let your mixture come to a boil. Heat until hot but not boiling or simmering. Boiling can break down the gelatin and your panna cotta may not set.
- For a silky smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer.
- Allow at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow the panna cotta time to set.
Recipe FAQs
Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made by simmering cream, milk, sugar (or natural sweetener) and gelatin together. It is then allowed to set until it is firm.
Panna cotta is similar in texture and richness to a custard. However, panna cotta is made without eggs and is therefore very easy to prepare.
Gelatin is the traditional and most common way to set your panna cotta. It is also possible to use alternatives such as agar-agar.
Panna cotta needs to be made ahead of serving time to allow sufficient time for it to set. This is an advantage when trying to prepare parts of your meal in advance, especially when entertaining. Let it set in the refrigerator for a minimum of six hours or preferably overnight. Panna cotta can be stored in your refrigerator for several days.
It is possible to freeze panna cotta but it is not recommended. Freezing can change the texture and consistency of this dessert.
Yes. Have fun experimenting with a variety of ingredients such as vanilla, coffee, various teas, herbs such as lavender or rosemary, fruit puree or chocolate.
Panna cotta can be served on its own, but is also often served along with fruit, caramel or chocolate sauce, or a fruit compote to add extra flavour and texture.
Refrigerator
After the panna cotta sets for a minimum of six hours, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
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Coffee Panna Cotta
Ingredients
Coffee Panna Cotta
- ½ cup hot water
- 2 tablespoon espresso powder
- 1 tablespoon gelatin
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Chocolate Ganache Topping
- 2 oz semi-sweet chocolate
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
Coffee Panna Cotta
- Add the espresso powder to the hot water and stir to dissolve.
- Sprinkle the gelatin over the espresso mixture and allow to sit undisturbed for 5 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla and the coffee/gelatin mixture. Heat over medium high heat until very hot but not simmering.
- Divide the mixture evenly into four ramekins or small dessert bowls. (For an extra smooth texture, pour the mixture through a sieve.) Cover the bowls with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on top.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of four hours before adding the chocolate ganache topping.
Chocolate Ganache Topping
- Chop the chocolate and place in a small glass measuring cup or bowl.
- Heat the heavy cream until very hot but not simmering.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and stir well until the chocolate is completely incorporated.
- Pour the ganache over the panna cottas. Refrigerate for at least another two hours or overnight before serving.
- If desired, you may garnish your Coffee Panna Cotta with a dusting of espresso powder, chocolate shavings, an edible flower or fresh fruit. Enjoy!
Notes
- Bloom the gelatin properly by letting it sit undisturbed on the liquid for at least five minutes.
- Use high quality sources for your milk, cream, gelatin and vanilla.
- Heat the mixture slowly over medium heat to dissolve the gelatin and avoid scorching.
- Don't let your mixture come to a boil. Heat until hot but not boiling or simmering. Boiling can break down the gelatin and your panna cotta may not set.
- For a silky smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer.
- Allow at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow the panna cotta time to set.
Nutrition
Recipe
If you make this recipe please leave a comment and give this recipe a rating! I aim to respond to every single comment. I am so grateful when you trust me and try one of my recipe creations in your own kitchen. I love to hear how it went! Let’s connect on Instagram and tag me in your food pics!
‘Til next time,
Christy
Barbara Montgomery says
We had this for dessert last night made by a very sweet friend. It was delicious I cannot wait to try the recipe myself! Thank you
Megan says
This is one of the most delicious things I've ever tasted! Obsessed with the texture and rich taste. Thank you!!