Every time I whip up this Espresso Panna Cotta, I can’t help but feel like I’ve brought a slice of Italy right into my kitchen. The moment I pour the silky cream mixture, I can already envision the delighted expressions on my guests’ faces as they take their first spoonful. This no-bake dessert merges the bold richness of espresso with a velvety texture, making it the perfect finale to any gathering. And here’s the kicker—it’s so simple to make that even a tired weeknight suddenly feels like a special occasion.
Imagine the luxurious bite of this coffee-flavored delight, topped with a luscious coffee syrup that adds a stunning finish. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or simply want to treat yourself on a quiet evening, this Espresso Panna Cotta is your go-to solution for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that effortlessly combines ease with elegance!
Why is Espresso Panna Cotta a Must-Try?
Decadence at its finest: This dessert delivers a creamy, coffee-infused indulgence that feels extravagant yet is so easy to prepare.
No-bake simplicity means you can whip it up without the fuss of baking—perfect for those busy nights!
Versatile options allow you to customize flavors and pairings, whether you choose to infuse it with liqueur or serve it with fresh berries.
Showstopper appeal: Impress guests with this elegant dish that looks stunning on any table.
You’ll find it’s a favorite that transforms any gathering into a chic occasion. Enjoy this no-bake dessert and elevate your culinary game!
Espresso Panna Cotta Ingredients
• Dive into making this delightful Espresso Panna Cotta with these simple ingredients!
For the Panna Cotta
- Espresso Powder – Adds concentrated coffee flavor; substitute with instant coffee granules if needed.
- Brewed Espresso (100 ml) – Enhances richness; strong brewed coffee works in a pinch.
- Heavy Cream (350 ml) – Creates that lush, creamy texture; coconut cream makes a great dairy-free alternative.
- Caster Sugar (60 g) – Ensures sweet, smooth consistency; regular sugar can be used but may require more stirring.
- Vanilla Bean Paste (1 teaspoon) – Elevates the flavor profile; pure vanilla extract can be an easy swap.
- Gelatine Powder (1¼ teaspoon) – Thickens the panna cotta; you can also use about 3 sheets of gelatin prepared per package instructions.
- Cold Water (2 tablespoons) – Activates the gelatine’s gelling power; no substitutes needed here.
For the Coffee Syrup
- Brewed Espresso (200 ml) – Vital for a rich coffee syrup; it’s the star of this topping!
- Caster Sugar (150 g) – Sweetens and thickens the syrup to perfection.
How to Make Espresso Panna Cotta
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Bloom Gelatine: Start by combining the gelatine powder and cold water in a small bowl. Let it rest for about 5 minutes until it swells and becomes jelly-like. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture!
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Heat Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, gently combine the heavy cream, vanilla bean paste, caster sugar, espresso powder, and brewed espresso. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Avoid boiling for the smoothest result.
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Incorporate Gelatine: Once the cream mixture is warm and well combined, stir in the bloomed gelatine. Keep stirring until fully dissolved, ensuring there are no lumps. This will provide that luxurious pudding-like texture!
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Set Panna Cotta: Carefully pour the creamy mixture into four dessert glasses or moulds. Cover them and let the panna cotta chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, until firm.
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Prepare Coffee Syrup: In another saucepan, combine the brewed espresso and caster sugar. Heat over medium until the sugar has melted completely and the mixture slightly thickens—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Pour the syrup into a jar to cool down.
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Serve: After the panna cotta has chilled and set, drizzle the coffee syrup over the top. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chocolate shavings or espresso beans, and serve alongside Italian biscuits for crunch!
Optional: For an extra touch, serve with fresh berries for delightful contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Espresso Panna Cotta
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending and dissolving. This will help create a smooth panna cotta.
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Gelatine Activation: When blooming gelatine, let it sit until jelly-like. This crucial step guarantees a perfect texture in your Espresso Panna Cotta.
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Chill Time Matters: To set the panna cotta properly, allow at least 6 hours in the fridge; overnight is even better. Patience leads to the best results!
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Demoulding Trick: To release the panna cotta, dip the bottom of the mould in warm water for a few seconds. This makes the process smooth and stress-free.
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Garnish for Elegance: Elevate presentation by garnishing with chocolate shavings or espresso beans. A little visual flair goes a long way in impressing your guests!
How to Store and Freeze Espresso Panna Cotta
Fridge: Store leftover Espresso Panna Cotta in airtight containers for up to 2 days. This way, you can enjoy its creamy goodness a second time!
Freezer: Avoid freezing the panna cotta, as it could change the texture, resulting in a grainy dessert.
Reheating: To serve chilled, simply take it out of the fridge; no reheating needed! The silky consistency is best enjoyed straight from the refrigerator.
Make Ahead Options
These Espresso Panna Cotta are perfect for busy home cooks who want to enjoy a delightful dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the panna cotta mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the initial steps, pour it into glasses, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to set. Additionally, the coffee syrup can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat before serving to achieve that silky consistency. Remember to cover the panna cotta tightly to maintain its creamy texture. When ready to serve, drizzle the cooled syrup over the panna cotta, and garnish with chocolate shavings or espresso beans for that wow factor! Enjoy the luxury with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Espresso Panna Cotta?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful pairings that enhance the creamy coffee goodness of this exquisite dessert.
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Italian Biscuits: Traditional and crunchy, they provide a perfect contrast to the silky panna cotta, adding a satisfying texture.
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Fresh Berries: Tart raspberries or sweet strawberries offer a refreshing burst of flavor and a beautiful color contrast to the rich dessert.
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Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shards not only enhances the taste but also adds an elegant touch to your presentation.
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Hazelnut Praline: This crunchy, nutty topping brings artistry to the plate, with flavors that harmonize wonderfully with the espresso notes.
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Amaretto Liqueur: A splash of this almond-flavored liqueur can elevate the dessert into a sophisticated after-dinner treat that tantalizes the palate.
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Coffee Cream: Lightly whipped coffee-flavored cream makes for a dreamy accompaniment, marrying perfectly with the espresso in your panna cotta.
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Sparkling Water: Serve with a glass of chilled sparkling water for a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate between bites.
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Affogato: For the ultimate coffee lovers’ finale, try serving a scoop of vanilla gelato drizzled with hot espresso alongside your panna cotta.
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Almond Croquant: This crispy, caramelized almond treat adds delightful crunchiness, complementing the creamy texture beautifully.
Espresso Panna Cotta Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dessert with these creative twists!
- Decaf Delight: Swap espresso for decaffeinated coffee to enjoy all the flavor without the caffeine kick.
- Creamy Coconut: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a light, tropical twist that’s also dairy-free!
- Boozy Boost: Add a splash of Baileys or Kahlúa to the cream mixture for a decadent adult version with extra richness.
- Berry Bliss: Top with fresh raspberries or strawberries to introduce a refreshing burst of fruitiness that balances the coffee flavor.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Serve with rich chocolate sauce instead of coffee syrup for those who crave a sweet chocolatey finish.
- Nutty Elegance: Add a sprinkle of ground hazelnuts or almonds on top for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
- Honey Sweetness: Substitute caster sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that enhances the coffee notes.
- Spicy Zing: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the mix, infusing it with warm, spicy flavors that dance on the palate.
Espresso Panna Cotta Recipe FAQs
What type of espresso should I use for the recipe?
Absolutely! Using brewed espresso will give your panna cotta the best flavor. If you don’t have espresso on hand, strong brewed coffee works as a substitute. Just ensure it’s rich and full-bodied for the best results.
How should I store leftover Espresso Panna Cotta?
You can store any leftover panna cotta in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. This preserves its creamy texture and flavor. Just make sure it’s covered well to avoid it absorbing any fridge odors.
Can I freeze Espresso Panna Cotta?
Very! I recommend against freezing, as it may change the texture of your panna cotta, making it grainy or watery when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh and chilled from the refrigerator.
What should I do if my gelatine doesn’t dissolve properly?
In case your gelatine doesn’t dissolve completely, try reheating the cream mixture gently on low heat, stirring constantly. If you see lumps of gelatine, don’t panic! Just pour the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any unmixed bits before setting it in the fridge.
Is Espresso Panna Cotta safe for people with allergies?
If you’re concerned about dietary allergies, this dessert can be gluten-free, and you can substitute the dairy with coconut cream for a lactose-free version. Always check the specific brands of cream and gelatine you’re using, as they may vary.
Can I use decaffeinated coffee for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a caffeine-free treat, simply substitute the espresso with decaffeinated coffee for the panna cotta. It will still be delicious and satisfying without the caffeine kick!
Decadent Espresso Panna Cotta: Your New Favorite Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by combining the gelatine powder and cold water in a small bowl. Let it rest for about 5 minutes until it swells and becomes jelly-like.
- In a saucepan, gently combine the heavy cream, vanilla bean paste, caster sugar, espresso powder, and brewed espresso. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Once the cream mixture is warm, stir in the bloomed gelatine. Keep stirring until fully dissolved, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Carefully pour the creamy mixture into dessert glasses or moulds. Cover them and let the panna cotta chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, until firm.
- In another saucepan, combine the brewed espresso and caster sugar. Heat over medium until the sugar has melted completely and the mixture slightly thickens.
- After the panna cotta has chilled and set, drizzle the coffee syrup over the top and garnish with chocolate shavings or espresso beans.