Go Back
elegant espresso panna cotta

Espresso Panna Cotta

This espresso panna cotta is a creamy, coffee-flavored Italian dessert that’s elegant yet easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you get a smooth, rich texture and deep espresso flavor — perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 340
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons powdered gelatin
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder or 2 shots strong brewed espresso, cooled
  • Pinch of salt
Optional toppings:
  • Whipped cream
  • Coffee syrup drizzle
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Crushed biscotti or cocoa dust

Method
 

Step 1: Bloom the gelatin
  1. Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes spongy.
Step 2: Heat the cream mixture
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, sugar, espresso powder, and a pinch of salt. Warm it over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves. Don’t let it boil.
Step 3: Add the gelatin
  1. Remove the pan from the heat. Add the bloomed gelatin and stir until it fully dissolves.
Step 4: Add vanilla
  1. Stir in the vanilla extract for a little sweetness and aroma.
Step 5: Pour and chill
  1. Pour the mixture into small glass cups, ramekins, or espresso glasses. Let them cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
  1. Top with whipped cream, drizzle of coffee syrup, and a few chocolate curls or crushed biscotti before serving. Enjoy cold.

Notes

  • You can use cold brew concentrate instead of espresso for a smoother coffee flavor.
  • For a lighter version, replace half the cream with whole milk.
  • Always let the panna cotta set for at least 4 hours — overnight is even better.
  • If you’re serving guests, make it a day ahead to save time.