Why make this recipe
Coffee Panna Cotta with Cocoa Sauce is a delightful dessert that combines the smooth, creamy texture of panna cotta with the rich flavor of coffee. It’s perfect for coffee lovers and anyone who enjoys a sweet, elegant treat. This recipe is easy to make and can impress your guests after dinner or serve as a special weekend dessert.
How to make Coffee Panna Cotta with Cocoa Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons coffee grounds or 1 tablespoon espresso
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup cold water
For the cocoa sauce:
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Directions
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the coffee grounds and let them steep for about 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it stand for 5 minutes.
- Add the gelatin mixture to the warm cream mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Strain the mixture into serving cups or molds to remove the coffee grounds.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
- For the cocoa sauce, combine cocoa powder, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until smooth and heated through.
- Serve the panna cotta chilled, topped with the warm cocoa sauce.
How to serve Coffee Panna Cotta with Cocoa Sauce
Serve the Coffee Panna Cotta in individual cups or molds. Just before serving, pour warm cocoa sauce over the top for a delicious finish. You can also add a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair.
How to store Coffee Panna Cotta with Cocoa Sauce
You can store any leftover panna cotta in the refrigerator. Cover the cups or molds with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. The panna cotta will last for about 3 days in the fridge. The cocoa sauce can also be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Tips to make Coffee Panna Cotta with Cocoa Sauce
- Make sure to let the gelatin dissolve completely in the warm cream mixture for the best texture.
- If you don’t have coffee grounds, using instant coffee or espresso powder can also work well.
- For an added twist, try infusing the cream with vanilla or caramel flavors.
Variation
You can switch up the flavor of the panna cotta by using different types of coffee or adding a splash of coffee liqueur for an adult version. You can also try using different toppings, like fresh fruit or nuts, to change the dessert’s look and taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make Coffee Panna Cotta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Simply let it set in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Is it necessary to strain the mixture after steeping coffee grounds?
Yes, straining helps to remove the coffee grounds and gives the panna cotta a smooth texture.
3. Can I use a substitute for gelatin?
You can use agar-agar if you want a vegetarian option. Just follow the instructions on the package for the best results.
Coffee Panna Cotta with Cocoa Sauce
Ingredients
For the panna cotta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons coffee grounds or 1 tablespoon espresso Can substitute with instant coffee or espresso powder.
- 1 packet unflavored gelatin (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup cold water
For the cocoa sauce
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
Preparation of Panna Cotta
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the coffee grounds and let them steep for about 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it stand for 5 minutes.
- Add the gelatin mixture to the warm cream mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Strain the mixture into serving cups or molds to remove the coffee grounds.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
Preparation of Cocoa Sauce
- For the cocoa sauce, combine cocoa powder, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until smooth and heated through.
Serving
- Serve the panna cotta chilled, topped with warm cocoa sauce.
- Optionally, add chocolate shavings or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair.