Coffee Jelly Recipe

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Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings.

• 2 tablespoons hot water
• 1 (.25 ounce) package unflavored gelatin
• 2 cups fresh brewed coffee
• 3 tablespoons white sugar

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients.

Step 2: In a small bowl, stir together the gelatin and hot water until the gelatin dissolves completely.

Step 3: Pour the gelatin mixture into a saucepan. Add the brewed coffee and sugar, and stir to combine.

Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly.

Step 5: Once the mixture is boiling, pour it into a shallow 9-inch square baking dish.

Step 6: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 6 to 7 hours, or until it solidifies completely.

Step 7: Once set, cut the coffee jelly into small cubes for serving.

Step 8: Enjoy your delicious coffee jelly!

Cooks Note

For individual servings, instead of cutting into cubes, you can pour the hot coffee mixture into four individual glasses. Chill as directed in Step 6 and serve directly from the glasses.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 43
• Total Carbohydrate: 9g (3% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 2g (3% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 6mg (0% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 4mg (0% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 59mg (1% Daily Value)

Servings Per Recipe: 4

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Coffee jelly is a popular Japanese dessert made from brewed coffee, gelatin, and sugar. It has a unique texture, offering a refreshing twist to traditional gelatin desserts. This dessert is not only delicious but also easy to make at home, making it a favorite for coffee lovers looking for a light, cool treat.

History and Origin

The origins of coffee jelly can be traced back to Japan in the 1960s, a time when coffee culture was flourishing in the country. Coffee jelly became a popular dessert in cafes and homes alike, providing a cool, refreshing dessert that complemented the strong flavors of Japanese coffee. While its exact origin is difficult to pinpoint, its widely believed to have been inspired by Western jelly desserts, with the addition of brewed coffee offering a distinctly Japanese twist.

Regional Features

In Japan, coffee jelly is often served as a light dessert or as a topping for other dishes such as shaved ice, or even within parfaits. Its commonly found in convenience stores, restaurants, and cafes across the country. In some areas, its even used in drinks like coffee-flavored milkshakes or topped with whipped cream for an extra indulgence. While this dish is now well-loved throughout Japan, it is also beginning to make its way into other countries as an exotic yet easy-to-make dessert for coffee enthusiasts.

Distinguishing Characteristics

While coffee jelly shares similarities with other gelatin desserts, its key distinguishing feature is its robust coffee flavor and texture. Unlike traditional gelatin desserts that are sweet and often fruity, coffee jelly relies on the deep, slightly bitter taste of brewed coffee to provide its unique character. Its also often served with whipped cream or sweeteners like condensed milk, balancing the bitterness of the coffee with creaminess and sweetness. In comparison to other coffee-based desserts, such as tiramisu or coffee cakes, coffee jelly stands out for its light, gelatinous consistency and its cool, refreshing nature, making it especially ideal for hot summer days.

Where Its Usually Served

Typically, coffee jelly is served in Japan in cafes, particularly during the warmer months. It is a popular option on dessert menus, often enjoyed after meals. Outside of Japan, coffee jelly has been gaining popularity in various global food scenes. In some areas, it is commonly served at Japanese restaurants or international cafes that offer a mix of Asian-inspired desserts. Its also an easy-to-make dessert for home gatherings, adding an exotic touch to a simple coffee-flavored treat. In its home country, it is often paired with a cold cup of coffee, enhancing the overall coffee experience.

Fun Facts

• In Japan, coffee jelly is often served with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added flavor and texture.
• The dessert has become so popular that it is often used as a base for various coffee-flavored desserts, such as coffee jelly parfaits or even in layered cakes.
• Some variations of coffee jelly use sweetened condensed milk or flavored syrups to sweeten the jelly, making it more indulgent and rich.
• In the popular Japanese anime "The Disastrous Life of Saiki K," the main character is seen enjoying coffee jelly, further boosting its recognition outside of Japan.
• Though it might seem complex, coffee jelly is incredibly easy to make at home and requires only four ingredients: coffee, gelatin, sugar, and water!

FAQ about Coffee Jelly Recipe

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