Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients (for 6 servings):

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup brewed black coffee
• 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 (0.25 ounce) packet unflavored powdered gelatin

Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, brewed black coffee, brown sugar, espresso powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
2. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the mixture to heat until it becomes hot and the sugar and espresso powder fully dissolve. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure not to let it boil.
3. While the cream mixture is heating, pour the 1/2 cup of whole milk into a small bowl. Sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the top and let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This will allow the gelatin to "bloom" and soften.
4. Once the cream mixture is ready and the gelatin has bloomed, remove the saucepan from the heat. Whisk the bloomed gelatin into the hot cream mixture, stirring continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved and fully incorporated.
5. Set a fine mesh strainer over a large heat-resistant bowl or measuring cup (preferably with a pour spout). Carefully pour the hot coffee-cream mixture through the strainer to remove any remaining solids.
6. Once strained, pour the mixture into individual glass serving dishes or ramekins. Let them cool to room temperature, which should take about 30 minutes.
7. After the mixture has cooled to room temperature, transfer the ramekins to the refrigerator. Allow them to chill for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cottas have fully set.

Cooks Note: This recipe yields 5 to 8 servings depending on the size of your serving dishes. Adjust accordingly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	365
Total Fat	29g (38% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	19g (93% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	92mg (31% Daily Value)
Sodium	100mg (4% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	19g (7% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	0g (0% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	18g
Protein	8g (16% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	0mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium	93mg (7% Daily Value)
Iron	0mg (2% Daily Value)
Potassium	162mg (3% Daily Value)

The History and Origins of Coffee Panna Cotta

Panna cotta, which translates from Italian as "cooked cream," is a traditional dessert originating in the northern regions of Italy, particularly Piedmont. While classic panna cotta was originally a simple mixture of sweetened cream, milk, and gelatin, the addition of coffee is a more modern adaptation that reflects the global love for espresso and coffee-flavored desserts. Coffee panna cotta combines the silky texture of the traditional dessert with the rich, slightly bitter notes of coffee, creating a sophisticated and indulgent treat.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

In Italy, panna cotta is typically served plain or with fruit coulis, caramel, or chocolate. However, in regions such as Lombardy and Tuscany, coffee-infused versions are more common in contemporary cafs and restaurants. Some variations incorporate espresso beans or coffee liqueurs to intensify the flavor. Outside Italy, countries like the United States and Japan have embraced flavored panna cottas, with coffee becoming a particularly popular variant due to its balance of sweetness and bitterness, making it an ideal after-dinner dessert.

How Coffee Panna Cotta Differs from Similar Desserts

Coffee panna cotta is often compared to other creamy desserts like custards, mousses, or flans. Unlike custard, it does not rely on eggs for thickening; gelatin provides its signature wobble and smooth texture. Compared to mousse, which is aerated to create a light and fluffy consistency, panna cotta is denser and creamier. Flan or crme caramel may share a similar appearance but has a baked egg-based custard and caramel topping, while panna cotta is chilled rather than baked. The infusion of coffee adds a depth of flavor not typically present in other creamy desserts.

Typical Serving Occasions

Coffee panna cotta is often served in fine dining restaurants, cafs, and during festive dinners. It is typically presented in individual glasses or ramekins, sometimes garnished with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder. Its delicate texture makes it a favorite for elegant dinners, holiday celebrations, or as a sophisticated end to a brunch menu. In modern food culture, it has also become a popular dessert for home entertaining due to its simple preparation yet impressive presentation.

Interesting Facts and Fun Tidbits

• The dessert is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• The gelatin-based texture of panna cotta allows it to hold intricate designs or layers of flavors, which chefs often use for creative plating.
• Although considered a classic Italian dessert, coffee panna cotta has gained international recognition, appearing in European, American, and Asian dessert menus.
• Serving it with a shot of espresso or coffee syrup can enhance the coffee flavor, creating a double coffee experience for enthusiasts.
• The dessert can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, making it an ideal option for entertaining without last-minute stress.

FAQ about Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe