Espresso Panna Cotta Recipe

Introduction

Espresso Panna Cotta is a silky, creamy Italian dessert infused with rich coffee flavor. This elegant treat is simple to prepare but impressive enough to serve at any dinner party or special occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
• 3 tablespoons cold water
• 1/2 cup brewed espresso (cooled)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bloom Gelatin by sprinkling the powdered gelatin over cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until softened and bloomed.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot but not boiling.
3. Step 3: Remove the cream mixture from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Then mix in the cooled brewed espresso and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until completely set.
5. Step 5: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh, high-quality espresso for the best coffee flavor.
• For a lighter dessert, substitute half of the cream with whole milk.
• Add a splash of coffee liqueur to enhance the espresso taste.
• Try topping with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for variety.

Storage

Store panna cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve. If needed, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture, but do not leave out for too long.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed espresso?

Yes, you can substitute instant coffee dissolved in a small amount of hot water, but brewed espresso provides a richer, more authentic flavor.

How do I know when the panna cotta is fully set?

The panna cotta will be firm to the touch and slightly jiggly when gently shaken. It should hold its shape when unmolded or scooped.

Espresso Panna Cotta Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 118 reviews

This Espresso Panna Cotta recipe creates a luscious, creamy Italian dessert infused with rich espresso flavor. Combining smooth heavy cream, milk, and brewed espresso with a delicate gelatin set, it is elegantly simple to prepare and ideal for coffee lovers wanting a sophisticated sweet treat. The panna cotta is chilled to achieve the perfect silky texture and can be garnished to enhance presentation.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (heating only, no actual cooking time)
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Gelatin Mixture

• 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
• 3 tablespoons cold water

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brewed espresso (cooled)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the gelatin softens and blooms, becoming slightly thickened and ready to dissolve.
2. Heat the Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot but not boiling; this ensures sugar dissolves and the mixture is ready to incorporate gelatin evenly.
3. Add Gelatin and Flavorings: Remove the heated cream mixture from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Then add the cooled brewed espresso and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to combine all flavors uniformly.
4. Pour and Chill: Pour the panna cotta mixture into individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the dessert to set into a creamy, firm consistency.
5. Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a light dusting of cocoa powder to enhance flavor and visual appeal. Serve chilled and enjoy this silky espresso-infused dessert.

Notes

• Ensure the gelatin is fully bloomed before adding to the warm cream mixture to achieve proper setting.
• The espresso should be brewed and cooled to prevent melting the gelatin and to maintain the right texture.
• For a stronger coffee flavor, increase brewed espresso up to 3/4 cup, adjusting liquid ratios accordingly.
• Make sure not to boil the cream mixture to avoid curdling and bitterness.
• Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, but overnight chilling is best for perfect texture.
• Serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added dimension.

Keywords: espresso panna cotta, coffee dessert, Italian panna cotta, creamy dessert, gelatin dessert, espresso recipe