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Espresso Panna Cotta Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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