Craving a unique dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying? Look no further than this delightful coffee jelly recipe. It transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible treat with a perfectly creamy texture and rich coffee flavor. This dessert is wonderfully easy to prepare and offers a cool, delightful escape on any occasion. Get ready to indulge in a truly refreshing experience.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Coffee Jelly Recipe
This coffee jelly recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons:
- Quick Preparation: It comes together in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy schedules.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to create this amazing dessert.
- Perfect for Any Gathering: Serve it at parties, potlucks, or as a special weeknight treat.
- Easily Customizable Flavors: Adjust the coffee strength and sweetness to your exact preference.
- Universally Appealing Taste: Both coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts will adore its creamy, satisfying flavor.
Ingredients
Crafting a perfect coffee jelly starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you need to make this refreshing treat:
- 1 pouch clear jelly powder (gulaman/agar agar), 25g
- 5 cups tap water
- 2-3 tablespoons instant coffee powder, adjust to preference
- 4-5 tablespoons granulated sugar, adjust to preference
- 1 small can sweetened condensed milk, 168ml per can
- 2 packs all-purpose cream, 250ml per pack
Notes & Substitutions
Clear jelly powder, often labeled as gulaman or agar-agar, is derived from seaweed and creates a firmer, more stable jelly compared to animal-based gelatin. For more information on the differences, learn about agar-agar versus gelatin in desserts. If you use gelatin powder (like Knox), you will need to adjust the quantity and preparation method as gelatin requires less powder and dissolves differently. For instance, typically one packet of Knox gelatin sets 2 cups of liquid.
You can use either instant coffee or freshly brewed strong coffee for this particular coffee jelly recipe. Instant coffee is quick and convenient, but brewed coffee can offer a richer, more nuanced flavor profile. The Mayo Clinic highlights that coffee offers various health benefits, including improved energy and a lower risk of certain diseases. Always adjust the granulated sugar to achieve your desired level of sweetness. For a lighter cream mixture, you can substitute some of the all-purpose cream with evaporated milk or a dairy-free alternative like full-fat coconut cream for a unique twist on the classic coffee jelly.
Equipment
Gathering your tools before you begin ensures a smooth cooking process for your coffee jelly dessert.
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- 9×9 inch square pan (or similar shallow dish)
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife or jelly cutter
How To Make Coffee Jelly Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your delightful coffee jelly recipe. Each stage is designed to be straightforward, ensuring success even for beginners.
First, combine 5 cups of tap water and gradually sprinkle in the clear jelly powder into a medium saucepan. Whisk or stir until the jelly powder fully dissolves into the water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a soft boil, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Remove the pot from the heat as soon as it reaches a soft boil.
Immediately add 2-3 tablespoons of instant coffee powder and 4-5 tablespoons of granulated sugar to the hot mixture. Stir continuously until both the coffee and sugar are completely dissolved. Ensure there are no granules left. Carefully pour the hot coffee jelly mixture into a 9×9-inch square pan or a similar shallow dish. Let it cool completely at room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator to set firmly for at least 2-3 hours. This chilling step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture for your firm coffee jelly.
Once the coffee jelly is fully set, remove the pan from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, cut the jelly into uniform cubes. You can make them as large or as small as you prefer for your coffee jelly dessert. In a large mixing bowl, combine one small can of sweetened condensed milk and two packs of all-purpose cream. Whisk these two ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
Gently fold the cut coffee jelly cubes into the creamy milk mixture. Be careful not to mash the jelly cubes. Once combined, cover the bowl and chill the entire mixture in the refrigerator for at least another 1-2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It is best served chilled in individual glasses or a large serving bowl.
Pro Tips for Perfect Coffee Jelly
Mastering your coffee jelly is simple with a few key tricks. Always ensure all powders, both jelly and coffee, fully dissolve in the hot liquid for a smooth, consistent texture. Use a whisk for best results. For a pronounced coffee flavor, opt for a strong instant coffee or even a shot of espresso. This will prevent the coffee from being overshadowed by the cream.
Chill the jelly completely in the refrigerator; this is vital for it to set firmly and be easy to cut. Adjust the sweetness level precisely to your liking by tasting the liquid before it sets. Remember, you cannot adjust sweetness once it hardens. Lastly, avoid freezing the coffee jelly, as this can alter its delightful texture and make it watery upon thawing.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
This versatile coffee jelly recipe shines in many ways.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chilled coffee jelly in individual glasses or a large, elegant bowl for a stunning presentation. For an extra touch of indulgence, garnish with chocolate shavings, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. It makes a fantastic light dessert after a rich meal.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover coffee jelly in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Keep it refrigerated, and it will remain delicious for 3-5 days. Beyond this, the texture might begin to soften, and the flavors could dull slightly.
Recipe Variations
Get creative with your coffee jelly dessert! For a dairy-free option, substitute the all-purpose cream with full-fat coconut cream; it adds a tropical hint. Experiment with different coffee flavors like espresso powder for intensity or decaf for a nighttime treat. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the mixture for a mocha-flavored coffee jelly. For a layered dessert, combine this coffee jelly with another clear jelly flavor, like vanilla or caramel, before chilling.
Nutrition Information
This coffee jelly offers a sweet indulgence. The following estimated nutritional values are per serving, based on a recipe yielding 12 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 234 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 56 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 3 mg |
| Sodium | 69 mg |
| Potassium | 353 mg |
| Sugar | 48 g |
| Calcium | 52 mg |
| Iron | 0.6 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does coffee jelly last in the fridge?
Your homemade coffee jelly stays fresh and delicious for about 3 to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. After this, its texture and flavor might start to degrade slightly.
Can I use any type of coffee for the jelly?
Yes, you can! While instant coffee is most convenient for this coffee jelly recipe, you can also use strong brewed coffee or espresso shots for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
What if my coffee jelly doesn’t set properly?
If your coffee jelly doesn’t set, it’s often due to insufficient jelly powder or not boiling the mixture long enough to activate the setting agent. Ensure you follow the ingredient measurements precisely and bring the mixture to a soft boil.
Can I make this recipe less sweet?
Absolutely! You can easily adjust the amount of granulated sugar added to the jelly mixture to suit your preference. Just be sure to taste before it sets.
Is there a vegan option for coffee jelly?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan. Ensure your jelly powder is agar-agar (which is plant-based) and substitute the sweetened condensed milk and all-purpose cream with full-fat coconut cream or another dairy-free cream alternative.
Final Thoughts
This coffee jelly recipe offers a truly delightful and surprisingly simple way to enjoy a creamy, coffee-infused dessert. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion, from a casual family treat to an elegant party dessert. With rich coffee flavor and a smooth, wobbly texture, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Go ahead, whip up a batch, and savor every cool, sweet spoonful.
Delicious & Easy Coffee Jelly Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a pot, combine water and gradually sprinkle in the jelly powder, stirring until it is fully dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a soft boil, then remove it from the heat and stir in the sugar and coffee powder until completely dissolved.
- Pour the hot coffee jelly mixture into a 9×9-inch square pan and allow it to cool and set completely.
- Once set, use a knife to cut the coffee jelly into desired cube sizes, either horizontally then vertically.
- In a large bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and all-purpose cream until well combined, then add the coffee jelly cubes and mix gently again.
- Cover the bowl and chill the mixture thoroughly; it is best enjoyed when served cold.
Notes
Diabetes Nutrition Specialist | Healthy Diet Advocate | Founder of GoldFoodie.
My passion for nutrition began with a deeply personal journey supporting my father through his battle with diabetes. Watching his daily struggles made me realize how powerful the right food choices can be in improving quality of life. That experience drove me to dedicate my career to helping others live healthier, more balanced lives.
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
