Description
This Coffee Panna Cotta with Vanilla Cream is a luscious Italian dessert that combines the rich flavors of espresso-infused creamy pudding with a light, sweet vanilla whipped cream topping. Smooth, silky, and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for coffee lovers looking to impress with a sophisticated yet simple treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Panna Cotta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso (or 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder dissolved in 1/4 cup hot water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Vanilla Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl and allow it to bloom for 5 to 10 minutes until it swells and softens.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, brewed espresso, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but does not boil.
- Dissolve Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved, ensuring the mixture is smooth and gelatin is evenly incorporated.
- Set the Panna Cotta: Let the mixture cool slightly before pouring it into serving glasses or ramekins. Place them in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully set and firm.
- Make the Vanilla Cream: Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy topping.
- Serve: Spoon or pipe the vanilla cream over the chilled panna cotta just before serving. Optionally, garnish with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for added flair.
Notes
- You can use decaf coffee if preferred to reduce caffeine.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk respectively.
- Serve with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or grated chocolate for an elegant presentation.
