Mary Berry Chocolate Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe

Name: Mary Berry Chocolate Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 300ml double cream; 200ml whole milk; 100g dark chocolate, finely chopped; 50g caster sugar; 2 tsp instant coffee granules; 2 gelatine leaves; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Chocolate shavings for decoration

If you love rich chocolate desserts with a hint of coffee, this Mary Berry Chocolate Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe is a wonderful choice. The texture is silky smooth, creamy, and delicate, while the combination of dark chocolate and coffee creates a deep, luxurious flavor. Despite its elegant appearance, this dessert is surprisingly easy to make and is suitable for beginners. With around 20 minutes of preparation and a few hours of chilling time, it is perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Coffee Panna Cotta

300ml double cream
200ml whole milk
100g dark chocolate, finely chopped
50g caster sugar
2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
2 gelatine leaves
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration

Chocolate shavings
Cocoa powder, optional
Fresh berries, optional

How to Make Mary Berry Chocolate Coffee Panna Cotta Recipe

Prepare the gelatine: Place the gelatine leaves in a bowl of cold water and leave them to soften for about 5 minutes.
Heat the dairy mixture: Add the double cream, milk, caster sugar, and coffee granules to a saucepan. Warm gently over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
Add the chocolate: Remove the pan from the heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
Mix in the vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly combined.
Add the gelatine: Lift the gelatine leaves from the water and squeeze out excess moisture. Stir them into the warm chocolate mixture until fully dissolved.
Pour into serving dishes: Divide the mixture evenly between six ramekins, glasses, or dessert moulds.
Chill until set: Place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until completely set.
Decorate and serve: Top with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or fresh berries before serving.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Coffee Panna Cotta

How do I get a perfectly smooth texture?

Stir the chocolate thoroughly until completely melted and strain the mixture before pouring if needed.

Can I make the coffee flavor stronger?

Yes, increase the coffee granules to 3 teaspoons for a more intense coffee taste.

Why didn’t my panna cotta set properly?

Make sure the gelatine is fully dissolved and allow enough chilling time in the refrigerator.

What chocolate works best?

Use good-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa solids for a rich and balanced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with whipped cream.
Top with chocolate curls.
Add fresh raspberries or strawberries.
Dust lightly with cocoa powder.
Serve alongside shortbread biscuits.

Storage

Room Temperature

This dessert should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Refrigerator

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep chilled until ready to serve.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the smooth texture and cause separation after thawing.

Nutrition

Calories: 345 kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Sodium: 55mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make panna cotta a day ahead?

Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead and can be refrigerated overnight before serving.

Can I use powdered gelatine instead of gelatine leaves?

Yes, use one sachet of powdered gelatine and follow the package instructions for blooming.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but the dessert will be sweeter and have a milder chocolate flavor.

How long does panna cotta take to set?

Most panna cotta recipes require at least 4 hours of chilling, although overnight is best for a firm set.