Espresso Panna Cotta Recipe

Introduction

Espresso panna cotta is a smooth, creamy dessert that perfectly balances rich coffee flavors with silky cream. This no-fuss recipe takes just a few simple ingredients and transforms them into an elegant treat that’s sure to impress.

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: Prepare the gelatin by sprinkling the powdered gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it softens and blooms.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Step 3: Remove the cream mixture from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Then add the cooled brewed espresso and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
4. Step 4: Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully 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

• For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the espresso to 3/4 cup or use a robust dark roast.
• Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option, but ensure gelatin is suitable and dissolve it thoroughly.
• Add a splash of coffee liqueur to the mixture for an adult twist.
• Use a silicone mold for easy unmolding if you want a more elegant presentation than cups or ramekins.

Storage

Store the panna cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve for the best texture. If needed, allow it to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make panna cotta ahead of time?

Yes, panna cotta benefits from chilling and can be prepared up to 2 days in advance, making it ideal for entertaining.

What can I use instead of gelatin?

If you prefer a vegetarian alternative, agar-agar can be used, but note that the texture may be slightly different. Follow the package instructions for the correct amount and preparation.

Espresso Panna Cotta Recipe

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4.8 from 563 reviews

This Espresso Panna Cotta is a smooth and creamy Italian dessert infused with rich espresso flavor. Made with a delicate blend of heavy cream, milk, sugar, gelatin, and brewed espresso, it sets into a luscious custard that’s perfect for an elegant finish to any meal. The recipe is simple, requiring no baking, just chilling, and it can be garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an added touch of decadence.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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. Prepare the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the gelatin softens and blooms, which is essential for it to dissolve smoothly into the cream mixture.
2. Heat the Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling to avoid curdling or burning the milk.
3. Add Gelatin: Remove the hot cream mixture from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it is completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth texture for the panna cotta.
4. Add Espresso and Vanilla: Mix in the brewed espresso and vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the creamy base with rich coffee flavor and aromatic vanilla undertones.
5. Pour and Chill: Pour the combined mixture into individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the panna cotta to fully set into a silky custard.
6. Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder to enhance flavor and presentation. Serve chilled for the best taste experience.

Notes

• Use freshly brewed espresso and allow it to cool before adding to the mixture for the best flavor and to prevent melting the gelatin.
• Do not boil the cream mixture to avoid breaking the dairy proteins; heat until just hot to the touch.
• You can prepare panna cotta a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but the texture may be less creamy.
• Gelatin can be substituted with agar agar for a vegetarian version, but setting times and textures will vary.

Keywords: Espresso Panna Cotta, Italian dessert, coffee panna cotta, no-bake dessert, creamy custard, gelatin dessert