Description
At its core, this recipe is a refined twist on the classic Italian panna cotta. Traditionally, panna cotta translates to “cooked cream,” and it relies on a delicate balance of dairy and gelatin to create a texture that is firm enough to hold its shape but soft enough to melt the moment it touches your tongue.
Ingredients
1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
â…“ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
2 tsp instant espresso powder or ½ cup very strong brewed coffee
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 packet (2¼ tsp) powdered gelatin
3 tbsp cold water
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Bloom the gelatin
Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit 5 minutes until spongy.Heat the dairy
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cream, milk, sugar, coffee/espresso powder, salt. Heat until hot but not boiling, stirring to dissolve everything.Add gelatin
Remove from heat. Whisk in bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.Flavor it
Stir in vanilla extract.Chill
Pour into ramekins or glasses. Refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).Serve
Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa or chocolate shavings.
Notes
Inspired by the classic Irish coffee, this panna cotta is rich with bold coffee flavor and creamy warmth. It’s best served as an adults-only dessert, finished with softly whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa for that cozy, after-dinner feel.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilled
- Cuisine: Irish-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 panna cotta (about ½ cup)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
Keywords: Non alcoholic coffee panna cotta, Virgin Irish coffee dessert, Espresso cream custard, Mocktail inspired panna cotta