Save I stumbled upon coffee jelly during a heatwave last summer when my usual iced coffee wasn't cutting it anymore. The first sip was a revelation—cold, creamy milk punctuated by those bouncy cubes of coffee-infused jelly that popped between my teeth. Something about the textural contrast made it feel like I was drinking and eating dessert simultaneously. My kitchen filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee as I tinkered with the recipe until it was just right.
Last August, I served these at an impromptu balcony gathering when three friends dropped by unexpectedly. We sat watching the sunset, glasses clinking with jelly cubes as we stirred with our wide straws. The conversation flowed easier somehow with these in hand, everyone pausing mid-sentence to fish out another jiggling cube. Even my coffee-indifferent friend Mark couldn't resist a second serving, quietly sliding his empty glass toward me with a sheepish smile.
Ingredients
- Strong brewed coffee: Use your favorite dark roast for the most intense flavor, as the gelatin will slightly dilute the coffee punch.
- Unflavored gelatin powder: This magical ingredient transforms liquid coffee into those addictively bouncy cubes, so make sure its fresh for the best setting power.
- Sweetened condensed milk: The secret weapon that gives the cream its silky texture and caramel-like sweetness without being gritty like regular sugar can be.
- Heavy cream: This adds a luxurious mouthfeel that perfectly balances the firm jelly texture, so dont skimp or substitute with half-and-half.
Instructions
- Bloom the gelatin:
- Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small bowl and watch the transformation as it absorbs the liquid and swells. Give it a full 5 minutes to ensure it dissolves completely later.
- Create your coffee base:
- Stir the sugar into hot coffee until it disappears, then add your bloomed gelatin and mix until the liquid is clear with no visible granules. The mixture should feel smooth when rubbed between your fingers.
- Set your jelly:
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish where it can spread thinly for faster setting and easier cutting later. The liquid will still look quite watery but will firm up beautifully in the refrigerator.
- Cube the magic:
- Once firm, run a knife through the jelly to create half-inch cubes that will dance in your drink. They should feel springy but hold their shape when lifted.
- Mix your cream blend:
- Combine the milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream in a pitcher, whisking until the texture is uniform. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon slightly but still pour easily.
- Assemble your drink:
- Fill glasses with the coffee jelly cubes and a few ice cubes, then pour the sweet cream mixture over until the jelly cubes begin to float. Watch as the cream weaves through the spaces between the jelly.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Provide wide straws or spoons so everyone can enjoy both the liquid and jelly components. Give it a gentle stir just before drinking to distribute the flavors.
Save My niece visited during her college break last year and I made her this coffee jelly drink on a whim. Her eyes widened at that first taste, and she immediately FaceTimed three of her friends to show them what she was drinking. For the rest of her stay, she requested it daily, eventually learning to make it herself. Now whenever she calls, she updates me on her latest flavor variations, proudly describing how shes become known as the coffee jelly girl in her dorm.
Customizing Your Coffee Jelly
After making this countless times, Ive discovered the basic recipe is just a canvas for creativity. Infusing the hot coffee with a cinnamon stick or vanilla bean before adding gelatin transforms the flavor profile entirely. Sometimes I add a shot of hazelnut syrup to the coffee or replace half the granulated sugar with brown sugar for caramel notes that pair beautifully with the cream. During holiday seasons, a touch of peppermint extract in the cream layer creates a festive twist that always draws compliments.
Make-Ahead Magic
The beauty of coffee jelly is how it improves with a little planning. Ive made the jelly portion up to three days ahead, keeping it covered in the refrigerator where it actually develops a deeper flavor. The cream mixture stays fresh for about 24 hours when refrigerated in an airtight container. Having both components ready to go has saved me countless times when unexpected guests arrive, allowing me to assemble impressive drinks in seconds while appearing effortlessly prepared.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation elevates this simple treat to memorable status. I learned this when serving it at my sisters book club, where everyone photographed their glasses before taking a sip. Clear glassware shows off the lovely layers and lets you watch the cream slowly filter through the jelly cubes as you drink. Taller glasses create more dramatic visual appeal while wider tumblers make it easier to scoop out the jelly.
- Serve with both a spoon and wide straw to give guests options for enjoying both components.
- For fancy occasions, top with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream and chocolate-covered coffee beans.
- Keep your serving glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before assembling for an extra-cold refreshing experience.
Save This coffee jelly drink sits in that perfect sweet spot between everyday treat and special occasion indulgence. Whether youre making it just for yourself on a quiet afternoon or serving it to impress at your next gathering, it brings a moment of playful joy to whoever is lucky enough to hold the glass.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make the coffee jelly ahead of time?
Yes, coffee jelly can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and cut into cubes just before serving for the freshest presentation.
- → What type of coffee works best for this drink?
Use a strong brewed coffee or espresso for the most pronounced flavor. Dark roast varieties provide a robust taste that balances well with the sweet cream mixture.
- → Can I substitute agar-agar for gelatin?
Absolutely. Use 1 teaspoon of agar-agar powder in place of gelatin for a vegetarian-friendly version. The setting time and texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness level?
Start with less condensed milk in the cream mixture and add more to taste. You can also reduce the sugar in the coffee jelly itself or use unsweetened condensed milk alternatives.
- → Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes, replace whole milk with coconut milk, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and swap condensed milk for sweetened coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free version.
- → What's the best way to serve this beverage?
Serve in tall glasses with wide straws or long spoons so guests can enjoy both the jelly cubes and creamy liquid. Add ice cubes for extra refreshment on warm days.