There’s something delightful about transforming a humble cup of coffee into an indulgent treat. I recently found myself longing for a dessert that would satisfy my sweet tooth without the usual fuss—and that’s when I stumbled upon the enchanting world of Coffee Jellos. As the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled my kitchen, I could already envision the silky-smooth texture of this gelatin dessert that captures all the flavors I adore.
The beauty of Coffee Jellos lies not just in their taste but also in their effortless preparation. With just a few simple ingredients—like strong coffee and sweetened condensed milk—you can create a stunning dessert that’s bound to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re winding down from a busy week or wanting to wow guests at your next dinner party, this recipe hits the sweet spot perfectly. So grab your favorite mug and let’s dive into this delightful concoction that’s just as charming as it is uncomplicated!
Why are Coffee Jellos so irresistible?
Simplicity at its finest: With just four ingredients, this recipe makes sophisticated desserts accessible for everyone, even busy home chefs.
Delectable flavor: The rich, robust taste of coffee paired with sweetened condensed milk creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Versatile treat: Perfect for after dinner or as a refreshing afternoon snack, these Coffee Jellos fit any occasion beautifully.
Impress your guests: The elegant presentation of this dessert makes it a standout at parties, sure to leave your friends raving.
Quick to prepare: You can whip these up in a flash and let them set while you relax! Enjoy this delightful treat that combines ease with extraordinary flavor.
Coffee Jellos Ingredients
• Ready to create your own delightful Coffee Jellos? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Gelatin Base
- Cold Water – This helps dissolve the gelatin smoothly for a flawless texture.
- Gelatin plain – Acts as the magic ingredient that gives these Coffee Jellos their charming jiggle.
For the Coffee Mixture
- Strong Coffee – Choose your favorite brew to infuse rich flavors into the dessert—this is where the coffee magic happens!
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds a creamy sweetness that balances the bitterness of the coffee, making for a delightful treat.
Elevate your dessert game with these Coffee Jellos that are as delightful to serve as they are to enjoy!
How to Make Coffee Jellos
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Dissolve gelatin in cold water. Start by pouring ½ cup of cold water into a small bowl and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of plain gelatin over the water. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it absorbs the water and swells.
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Brew strong coffee. While the gelatin is blooming, brew 2 cups of your favorite strong coffee using boiling water and ground coffee. Let it cool slightly to enhance the flavors.
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Combine gelatin and coffee. Once your coffee is ready, gently heat it again if it has cooled down too much. Mix the bloomed gelatin into the warm coffee, stirring until fully dissolved.
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Add sweetened condensed milk. Pour in the entire can (397g) of sweetened condensed milk and whisk everything together until smooth and creamy, bringing all the delicious flavors together.
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Pour into a mold. Carefully pour the mixture into your desired mold or individual cups, ensuring even distribution for perfectly set portions.
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Refrigerate until set. Place the mold in the refrigerator and allow the Coffee Jellos to set for at least 4 hours, or until completely firm to the touch.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Coffee Jellos are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights or gatherings! You can prepare the gelatin base and the coffee mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, ensure that the gelatin mixture is covered tightly to prevent any absorption of odors. When you’re ready to finish, combine the prepped gelatin with your strong coffee and sweetened condensed milk, whisking until smooth. Pour the mixture into molds and refrigerate until set, allowing for a delightful dessert that impresses with minimal last-minute effort, just as delicious as when made fresh!
What to Serve with Coffee Jellos?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that will enhance the flavors of your creamy coffee creation.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, airy whipped cream adds an indulgent touch that perfectly balances the coffee’s richness.
Imagine taking a bite of the silky Coffee Jellos and feeling the smoothness of whipped cream melt in your mouth—a true treat! -
Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans: These provide a crunchy contrast and an extra caffeine kick that coffee lovers will adore.
The combination of creamy jello with crunchy beans creates a playful texture that excites the palate. -
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries such as raspberries or strawberries offer a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the sweetness.
Their natural acidity complements the rich coffee, enhancing each bite with a sprightly essence. -
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a nostalgic touch and a delightful temperature contrast.
Together, they create a comforting pairing that gives every spoonful a sumptuous feel. -
Hazelnut Biscotti: This crunchy, nutty treat adds a satisfying crunch while echoing the coffee flavor beautifully.
Dip a biscotti into the jello for a harmonious bite that feels like a warm hug on a plate. -
Spiced Chai Tea: A cup of spiced chai tea serves as a perfect warm, aromatic companion to the chilled jellos.
The combination of spices harmonizes well with the coffee, creating a soothing yet energized atmosphere. -
Lemon Sorbet: The bright, zesty flavor of lemon sorbet refreshes the palate and adds a pop of color to your dessert plate.
This pairing enhances the experience, leaving a clean, invigorating finish with every bite of Coffee Jellos.
Expert Tips for Coffee Jellos
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Choose Quality Coffee: Your choice of coffee significantly impacts the flavor. Use fresh, high-quality coffee beans for the best taste in your Coffee Jellos.
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Perfect Gelatin Bloom: Allow gelatin to bloom fully in cold water for about five minutes before mixing it with hot coffee. This prevents any clumps and ensures a smooth texture.
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Cooling Tips: If your coffee cools too much before adding the gelatin, gently warm it back up. This helps ensure the gelatin dissolves completely without forming lumps.
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Personalize Your Flavor: Experiment with flavored coffee or add a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture for a unique twist. This little change can elevate your Coffee Jellos to the next level!
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Proper Setting Time: Don’t rush the refrigeration process. Allow at least 4 hours for the Coffee Jellos to fully set, so they hold their beautiful shape when served.
Coffee Jello Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists that can elevate your Coffee Jellos to new heights!
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Decaf Delight: Swap strong coffee with decaffeinated coffee for a relaxed, evening treat without the caffeine kick.
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Latte Lovers: Mix in a splash of milk or cream to your coffee for a latte-inspired version that adds creaminess and flavor.
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Flavor Infusions: Experiment with flavored coffee, like hazelnut or vanilla, to give your dessert a unique taste that dances on the palate.
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Cocoa Twist: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder while mixing in the sweetened condensed milk for a delightful chocolate-coffee mashup.
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Nutty Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of almond or hazelnut extract to deepen the flavor profile; it’s sure to make your Jellos stand out.
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Vegan Option: Use almond milk and agar-agar instead of gelatin for a vegan-friendly version that still jells beautifully and tastes divine.
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Tasting Flight: Serve individual cups with different flavor variations, like espresso shots or a twist of orange zest, for a fun dessert experience.
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Gourmet Garnish: Top with whipped coconut cream and a sprinkle of crushed coffee beans for an eye-catching finish that adds both flavor and texture.
How to Store and Freeze Coffee Jellos
Fridge: Store your Coffee Jellos in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for whenever your sweet tooth calls!
Freezer: You can freeze Coffee Jellos for up to 1 month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer them from the freezer to the fridge a few hours before serving. This gentle thaw will maintain their delightful texture.
Reheating: Avoid reheating, as it may compromise the gelatin’s texture. Instead, enjoy these delectable jellos chilled for the perfect refreshing treat!
Coffee Jellos Recipe FAQs
What type of coffee should I use for Coffee Jellos?
Absolutely! Choose a strong and flavorful coffee to make your Coffee Jellos truly shine. Freshly brewed coffee made from quality beans will give you the best results. Whether you go for espresso or a rich dark roast, the key is to ensure that the coffee’s robust flavor shines through in your dessert.
How long can I store Coffee Jellos in the fridge?
You can easily store your Coffee Jellos in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just make sure they are sealed well to keep out any unwanted odors from your fridge, ensuring they stay fresh and ready whenever a sweet craving hits!
How do I freeze Coffee Jellos?
Great question! To freeze your Coffee Jellos, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply move them from the freezer to the fridge and let them thaw for several hours. This way, they retain their delightful texture!
What should I do if my Coffee Jellos don’t set properly?
If your Coffee Jellos haven’t set, it’s usually due to insufficient gelatin or improper blooming. Make sure to dissolve your gelatin completely in cold water before mixing it with the warm coffee. If you find that yours are still wobbly, pop them back into the refrigerator for a bit longer. They usually need at least 4 hours to set properly, so be patient!
Can I make this dessert dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free or vegan option, you can substitute sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or a vegan sweetened condensed milk. Ensure your gelatin is derived from plant sources like agar-agar if you need a completely plant-based recipe, which would provide a similar jiggle!
Is it safe to give Coffee Jellos to my pets?
No, it’s not safe to feed Coffee Jellos to pets. Coffee contains caffeine, which can be harmful to both dogs and cats. It’s always best to enjoy these delicious desserts for yourself and keep them out of reach of your furry friends!
Irresistible Coffee Jellos: A Sweet Dreamy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dissolve gelatin in cold water. Pour ½ cup of cold water into a small bowl and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of plain gelatin over the water. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it absorbs the water and swells.
- Brew strong coffee. Brew 2 cups of your favorite strong coffee using boiling water and ground coffee. Let it cool slightly.
- Combine gelatin and coffee. Gently heat the coffee again if it has cooled down too much. Mix the bloomed gelatin into the warm coffee, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Add sweetened condensed milk. Pour in the entire can of sweetened condensed milk and whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a mold. Carefully pour the mixture into your desired mold or individual cups.
- Refrigerate until set. Place the mold in the refrigerator and allow the Coffee Jellos to set for at least 4 hours, or until completely firm to the touch.