Name: Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 6 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup whole milk; ¼ cup sugar; 2 tsp instant coffee or 1 shot espresso; 1 ½ tsp powdered gelatin (or 1 sheet); 2 tbsp cold water; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup whole milk; ¼ cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 ½ tsp powdered gelatin (or 1 sheet); 2 tbsp cold water

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 21 reviews

If you’re searching for a showstopper dessert that’s elegant, luscious, and a breeze to prepare, look no further than Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered). This Italian-inspired treat is a coffee lover’s dream, beautifully blending silky espresso-infused cream with a fragrant vanilla layer—and the best part is the simple, no-bake magic. Every spoonful delivers a gentle wobble, a hint of coffee bitterness, and a mellow, sweet finish. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, these layered cups will make you feel like a pastry chef with hardly any fuss.

Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) is how effortless yet luxurious it feels, thanks to a handful of straightforward ingredients! Each one pulls its weight: the dairy makes things silky, the gelatin creates that signature jiggle, coffee brings personality, and vanilla ties it all together. Here’s what you’ll need and why each is worth having on hand.

Heavy Cream: Provides the rich, creamy foundation that makes panna cotta so irresistible and decadently smooth.
Whole Milk: Balances the richness of the cream, making the layers light but satisfying.
Sugar: Just enough to sweeten each layer and highlight the coffee and vanilla flavors without overpowering them.
Instant Coffee or Espresso: For a bold, aromatic coffee layer—you can adjust the intensity to suit your taste buds.
Powdered Gelatin (or Sheet): The secret to that classic panna cotta set—remember to bloom it for a lovely, quivering finish.
Cold Water: Used for blooming gelatin in both layers; ensures perfect dissolving and an even texture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds pure, classic sweetness and rounds out the vanilla panna cotta layer with warmth and depth.
Cocoa Powder, Chocolate Shavings, or Whipped Cream: (Optional) Finishing touches that add visual flair and a final hit of indulgence.

How to Make Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered)

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

The first thing you’ll want to do is prep your gelatin—blooming is non-negotiable for great Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered)! Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in two separate small bowls (one for each layer) and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This ensures the gelatin softens and dissolves smoothly later, sparing you from any rubbery bits in your delicate layers.

Step 2: Make the Coffee Layer

In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and your chosen coffee (instant or a dash of espresso). Heat the mixture over medium until steamy and the sugar dissolves, but don’t let it boil. Once hot, remove from the heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until every last bit is dissolved. Carefully pour this luscious coffee base into your serving cups, filling each about halfway. Transfer the cups to the fridge for 1–2 hours, or until the coffee layer feels set and wobbly when gently nudged.

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Layer

While the coffee layer chills, repeat the process for the vanilla tier: heat heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract in a clean saucepan just until hot. Off the heat, whisk in the bloomed gelatin. Allow this mixture to cool a bit—just so it’s not piping hot—so you don’t risk melting the set coffee layer beneath when you pour it on. Gently ladle or pour the vanilla mixture over your coffee base. Pop the cups back in the fridge for 2–4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once your Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) are chilled through, it’s time for the grand finale. Just before serving, dust with a whisper of cocoa powder, scatter shiny chocolate shavings, or crown each with a luxurious billow of whipped cream. Voilà—your showstopping cups are ready to impress!

How to Serve Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered)

Garnishes

Don’t hold back when it comes to finishing touches! A little cocoa powder adds café vibes, while chocolate shavings give a gorgeous, gourmet look. Whipped cream brings extra creaminess to each spoonful. For even more flair, drizzle a ribbon of caramel or scatter a few chocolate-covered coffee beans on top—just let your sweet tooth be your guide!

Side Dishes

If these panna cotta cups are the dessert centerpiece, pair them with something simple but satisfying. Biscotti, almond cookies, or shortbread make wonderful accompaniments to scoop and dip. For a full-on Italian affair, try serving them after a light pasta dinner or with a tray of fresh berries and a pot of rich coffee on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Classic little cups are timeless, but Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) can be dressed up a dozen ways. Use wine glasses, espresso cups, or even clear jars—layering shows off those beautiful color contrasts. For parties, try mini versions in shot glasses for easy mingling. If you love elegance, top each with a shard of caramel or a dusting of edible gold.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover each cup with plastic wrap to protect from fridge odors and to prevent the tops from drying out. You’ll find the flavors get even cozier as they chill, making leftovers a delightful treat.

Freezing

While panna cotta is best enjoyed fresh for maximum creaminess and wobble, you can freeze the cups if needed. Place them in airtight containers and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight—just know that the texture may become slightly less silky, but the taste will still satisfy any sweet tooth.

Reheating

Thankfully, there’s no reheating needed for these chilled desserts! If you do need to serve them at a slightly warmer temperature, let the cups sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before enjoying. This softens the texture just a bit for extra melt-in-your-mouth indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant or espresso?

Absolutely! Strongly brewed coffee can stand in beautifully, just be sure to reduce the other liquids slightly so your panna cotta layers set firmly. Adjust strength to your taste and don’t be afraid to experiment—the coffee flavor should always shine!

What’s the secret to perfect, clean layers?

Patience is key! Let the coffee layer set fully before pouring on the vanilla. Cool the vanilla mixture so it’s just warm-to-the-touch before layering, which prevents the layers from bleeding into each other. Use a spoon to slow the pour if you want razor-sharp lines every time.

Can I make Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) dairy free?

Yes! Swap the cream and milk for a rich, full-fat coconut milk or a barista-style oat milk for a creamy finish. Use a compatible non-dairy gelatin substitute. The texture may be lighter, but the flavor can be just as dreamy!

How do I know when the panna cotta is set?

Gently tap the side of a cup—it should jiggle lightly, like soft gelatin, but not run. It usually takes 1–2 hours for the first layer and another 2–4 hours for the second. For best results, overnight chilling ensures perfect, worry-free set.

Can I add extra flavors or customize the recipe?

Definitely! Swap vanilla for almond extract, swirl in a little melted chocolate to the coffee layer, or infuse the cream with orange zest or a dash of cinnamon stick. Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) are a fun canvas for your creative spins.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re making a weeknight treat or dazzling your friends at your next gathering, Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) deliver incredible flavor and a touch of Italian elegance with hardly any effort. Give them a try—you’ll fall in love with every creamy, coffee-kissed bite!

Coffee Panna Cotta Cups (Layered) Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need