Vietnamese Coffee and Cream Jelly

Vietnamese Coffee and Cream Jelly is a luscious, layered dessert that combines the bold flavors of strong coffee with the silky richness of sweet cream. Inspired by the famous Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá), this jelly dessert is both refreshing and indulgent, making it perfect for hot days or a light yet satisfying after-meal treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its striking layers and balanced flavors. The rich coffee layer contrasts beautifully with the sweet and creamy layer, giving you a refreshing bite every time. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, requires no baking, and makes an impressive addition to any dessert table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Strong brewed Vietnamese coffee or espresso
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Heavy cream or whole milk
• Unflavored gelatin powder
• Water
• Granulated sugar

directions

1. Brew strong coffee and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, sprinkle half of the gelatin over a few tablespoons of water to bloom for about 5 minutes.
3. Heat the coffee gently in a saucepan, then add granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Warm the bloomed gelatin until melted and stir into the hot coffee mixture.
5. Pour the coffee mixture into a mold or serving glasses, filling halfway. Refrigerate until set (about 1-2 hours).
6. While the coffee layer sets, bloom the remaining gelatin in water.
7. In another saucepan, gently warm the cream and sweetened condensed milk together.
8. Stir the bloomed gelatin into the cream mixture until fully dissolved.
9. Once the coffee layer has set, carefully pour the cream mixture over the top.
10. Refrigerate for another 2-3 hours until fully set.
11. Cut into cubes or serve directly in glasses.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a chilling time of approximately 4-5 hours.

Variations

• Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a tropical twist.
• Add a splash of coffee liqueur to the coffee layer for an adult version.
• Sweeten the cream layer more if you prefer a richer, dessert-like flavor.
• Use flavored coffee like hazelnut or vanilla for extra aroma.
• Make individual servings in small glasses for an elegant presentation.

storage/reheating

Store the jelly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled straight from the fridge. This dessert does not require reheating and should not be frozen, as freezing can alter the texture.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee for this recipe?

Yes, instant coffee works fine as long as you brew it strong enough to maintain a bold flavor.

How do I prevent the two layers from mixing?

Make sure the first layer is completely set before gently pouring the second layer on top.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making a day in advance and storing in the fridge until ready to serve.

What type of gelatin should I use?

Use unflavored gelatin powder for the best results and clean flavor.

Can I substitute condensed milk with regular sugar?

You can, but condensed milk gives the cream layer its signature richness and sweetness.

How strong should the coffee be?

The coffee should be brewed very strong to hold its flavor after chilling and layering.

Is this dessert very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet, with the balance between the bitter coffee and the creamy, sweet milk layer.

Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?

Yes, agar-agar can be used for a vegetarian version, but follow the specific blooming and cooking instructions for agar.

How do I get neat layers?

Use a spoon to gently pour the second layer over the back of another spoon to minimize mixing and create clean, sharp layers.

Can I serve it with a topping?

Yes, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or crushed nuts would make a delicious topping.

Conclusion

Vietnamese Coffee and Cream Jelly is a refreshing, beautiful dessert that brings together the boldness of coffee and the sweetness of cream in a delicate, jiggly treat. It’s simple to prepare, visually impressive, and an absolute delight for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!

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