If you have a soft spot for delicate desserts that strike the perfect balance between creamy richness and bold coffee flavor, you are going to fall head over heels for this Coffee Panna Cotta with Vanilla Cream Recipe. Imagine a silky smooth, melt-in-your-mouth Italian classic infused with the robust warmth of espresso, topped with a cloud of luscious vanilla cream—each spoonful is a little moment of heaven. This recipe is approachable enough to make any day special, yet impressive enough to serve guests, making it my go-to when I want that wow factor without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Coffee Panna Cotta with Vanilla Cream Recipe lies in its simplicity. Just a handful of quality ingredients that come together to create creamy texture, intense coffee notes, and a hint of sweetness that keeps you coming back for more.
- Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): Provides the luscious, velvety base that makes panna cotta so irresistibly smooth.
- Whole milk (1/2 cup): Balances the richness of the cream for a lighter finish without losing silkiness.
- Strong brewed coffee or espresso (1/2 cup): The star ingredient—its bold flavor gives the dessert its signature coffee punch.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the panna cotta just enough to complement the coffee’s bittersweet notes.
- Powdered gelatin (2 teaspoons): The silent hero that sets the panna cotta to that perfect, jiggle-worthy texture.
- Cold water (3 tablespoons): Helps the gelatin bloom for smooth integration into the cream mixture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant depth enhancing both the cream and coffee flavors.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup, for topping): Whipped to create that light, airy vanilla cream finish.
- Powdered sugar (1 tablespoon, for topping): Sweetens the whipped cream delicately without weighing it down.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon, for topping): Fills the cream topping with classic warmth and aroma.
How to Make Coffee Panna Cotta with Vanilla Cream Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
This step is key to getting your panna cotta to set with perfect firmness and no lumps. Sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes. It will absorb the water, swelling into a jelly-like consistency ready to melt smoothly into your warm cream mixture later on.
Step 2: Heat the Cream, Milk, Coffee, and Sugar
Combine your cream, milk, strong brewed coffee or espresso, and sugar in a saucepan set over medium heat. Stir gently as the mixture warms, allowing the sugar to dissolve fully—just don’t let it reach a boil. The goal is a hot, fragrant coffee cream base that’s brimming with flavor.
Step 3: Dissolve the Gelatin and Add Vanilla
Remove the cream mixture from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin, whisking until it completely dissolves. This ensures your panna cotta will set evenly and have that signature creamy texture. Follow by adding the vanilla extract for a subtle sweetness and aromatic lift that perfectly complements the coffee.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the mixture into ramekins or pretty serving glasses. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is thoroughly set. This waiting time builds anticipation but trust me—it is so worth it.
Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Cream Topping
Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating the dreamy vanilla cream topping. This light and fluffy finish is the perfect contrast to the rich coffee base and takes the dessert to another level of indulgence.
Step 6: Serve with the Vanilla Cream
Once your panna cotta is perfectly set, spoon or pipe the vanilla cream on top just before serving. This adds both elegance and that delicious creamy layer that pulls the whole dessert together beautifully.
How to Serve Coffee Panna Cotta with Vanilla Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish elevates the presentation and adds texture contrast. Consider dusting the top with cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate for a little bitterness that pairs wonderfully with the vanilla cream. You can also sprinkle some crushed coffee beans or add a few coffee-soaked chocolate shavings for a sophisticated touch.
Side Dishes
This panna cotta is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with fresh berries or a citrus salad can lighten the rich dessert experience. A shortbread cookie or almond biscotti also makes a delightful crunchy companion that complements the smoothness of the panna cotta.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dessert in clear glasses or delicate jars to showcase the beautiful creamy layers, topped with vanilla cream. You can also unmold it onto plates for a sleek, minimalist edge—just run a warm knife around the edge and invert gently. Adding edible flowers or gold leaf accents makes for a truly stunning presentation perfect for impressing guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover panna cotta can be covered tightly and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Keep the vanilla cream separate until ready to serve to maintain its airy texture. Stored well, the dessert holds its luxurious consistency and flavor beautifully.
Freezing
Freezing panna cotta isn’t usually recommended because the texture can become grainy once thawed. If you must freeze, do so without the vanilla cream topping in a sealed container and consume within a week for best results. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and whisk the vanilla cream fresh before serving.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and is not meant for reheating. However, if you want to gently soften it before serving, leave it at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This subtle tempering helps to enhance the creamy texture even more.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee or espresso?
Yes, you can substitute strong instant coffee, but it’s best to dissolve the powder in hot water first to ensure it blends smoothly without gritty bits. For the richest coffee flavor, espresso is still the preferred choice.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Coffee Panna Cotta with Vanilla Cream Recipe?
Absolutely. Swap the heavy cream and milk for coconut cream and almond milk respectively. Use agar agar instead of gelatin to accommodate vegan diets. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long does it take for the panna cotta to set properly?
It generally takes about 4 hours of refrigeration for panna cotta to fully set, but chilling it overnight ensures the best texture and firmness for serving.
Can I add a flavored syrup or liqueur to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding a splash of coffee liqueur, amaretto, or caramel syrup can give your panna cotta a lovely twist. Just adjust the sugar accordingly so it doesn’t turn out too sweet.
What’s the best way to unmold the panna cotta?
The easiest method is to briefly dip the ramekins in warm water—just a few seconds—then gently invert each onto a serving plate. The warm water loosens the gelatin edges, enabling a smooth release without damaging the delicate dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Panna Cotta with Vanilla Cream Recipe has become one of my favorite go-to desserts because it feels both luxurious and effortlessly elegant. It’s a celebration of classic Italian simplicity and bold coffee flavor that can turn any meal into a memorable occasion. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a cherished treat in your own kitchen as well. So go ahead, give it a whirl, and savor every silky, creamy bite!
Print
Coffee Panna Cotta with Vanilla Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A luscious Italian dessert featuring a creamy coffee-infused panna cotta topped with a delicate vanilla cream. This no-bake treat combines the rich flavors of espresso and vanilla, creating a smooth and elegant dessert perfect for coffee lovers.
Ingredients
Panna Cotta
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla Cream Topping
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften and bloom.
- Heat Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, brewed coffee or espresso, and granulated sugar. Stir gently until the mixture is hot and the sugar is fully dissolved, taking care not to boil.
- Dissolve Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to incorporate the flavor evenly throughout the panna cotta mixture.
- Chill Panna Cotta: Pour the mixture evenly into ramekins or serving glasses. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Prepare Vanilla Cream Topping: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a light, fluffy cream.
- Serve: Once the panna cotta is set, spoon or pipe the vanilla cream topping over each serving. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso or increase the coffee quantity slightly.
- To unmold the panna cotta, dip the ramekins in warm water for a few seconds, then gently invert onto a plate.
- This dessert can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Ensure not to boil the cream mixture to maintain a smooth texture and prevent gelatin from losing its setting properties.
