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Coffee Panna Cotta with Chocolate Ganache Recipe


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4.2 from 78 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Coffee Panna Cotta is an elegant and easy-to-make dessert combining creamy panna cotta infused with rich coffee flavor, topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for dinner parties or a special treat, this make-ahead dessert offers a delightful blend of coffee and chocolate in a silky creamy texture.


Ingredients

Coffee Panna Cotta

  • ½ cup hot water
  • 2 tablespoons espresso powder
  • 1 tablespoon gelatin
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Ganache Topping

  • 2 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • ½ cup heavy cream


Instructions

  1. Dissolve espresso powder: Add the espresso powder to the hot water and stir until completely dissolved, forming a strong coffee base.
  2. Bloom gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin over the coffee mixture and let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to fully absorb and bloom.
  3. Heat panna cotta base: In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the coffee/gelatin mixture. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is very hot but not boiling or simmering.
  4. Strain and pour: For extra smooth panna cotta, strain the mixture through a sieve into a clean bowl. Then divide evenly among four ramekins or small dessert bowls. Cover each with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on top.
  5. Refrigerate panna cotta: Place the ramekins in the refrigerator for at least four hours, or until the panna cotta has set firmly.
  6. Prepare ganache: Chop the semi-sweet chocolate and place it in a small heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream until very hot but not simmering, then pour it over the chopped chocolate. Stir gently until the ganache is smooth and all the chocolate is melted.
  7. Top panna cotta: Pour the warm ganache over each chilled panna cotta evenly. Return to the refrigerator and chill for at least two more hours or preferably overnight to allow the ganache to set.
  8. Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with a dusting of espresso powder, chocolate shavings, edible flowers, or fresh fruit. Enjoy this sophisticated coffee and chocolate dessert!

Notes

  • You can substitute espresso powder with strong brewed espresso coffee if preferred.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and coconut cream, and check gelatin alternatives like agar-agar.
  • To ensure a smooth panna cotta texture, always strain the mixture before setting.
  • Make panna cotta up to two days in advance for best flavor and convenience.
  • Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring to prevent melting the set panna cotta surface.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian