Coffee Jelly is a refreshing, Japanese-inspired dessert that brings together the bold flavor of coffee and the fun texture of jelly. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, I can whip up a cool, lightly sweet treat that’s both simple and unique. It’s a favorite of mine when I want something easy but impressive, especially during warm weather or when I crave coffee in a different form.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups brewed strong coffee (hot)
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder
2 tablespoons cold water
Optional: sweetened condensed milk or whipped cream, for serving
Directions
I start by sprinkling the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. I let it bloom for about 5 minutes.
While the gelatin is blooming, I brew 2 cups of strong hot coffee.
I stir the sugar into the hot coffee until it's completely dissolved.
Once the gelatin has bloomed, I stir it into the hot coffee mixture, making sure it's fully dissolved.
I pour the mixture into a shallow dish or individual serving cups.
I chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
When it's firm, I either cut it into cubes (if using a dish) or leave it as is (if served in cups).
For extra indulgence, I top it with sweetened condensed milk or a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Calories per serving: 80 kcal
Variations
I sometimes add a splash of vanilla extract to the coffee before setting it to give it a subtle flavor twist.
For a mocha version, I dissolve a teaspoon of cocoa powder along with the sugar.
I’ve also tried making it with flavored coffee like hazelnut or caramel—it adds a fun twist without extra steps.
If I want a creamier dessert, I layer the jelly with sweetened condensed milk or mix in some milk before it sets.
For a vegan version, I replace the gelatin with agar-agar (following package instructions for equivalent setting).
Storage/Reheating
I store the coffee jelly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s best served cold, straight from the fridge. I don’t recommend reheating it since it will melt the gelatin and lose its texture. If I make it ahead for a gathering, I keep it chilled and add the toppings right before serving.
FAQs
What type of coffee should I use for coffee jelly?
I use strong brewed coffee for the best flavor—something like espresso or a dark roast works well. Instant coffee also works if I adjust the strength.
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Yes, I’ve made it with sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol. Just make sure to dissolve it fully in the hot coffee before adding the gelatin.
Is coffee jelly caffeinated?
Yes, since it's made with regular coffee. If I want a caffeine-free version, I use decaf coffee—it tastes just as good.
Can I use flavored gelatin instead of plain?
I stick with unflavored gelatin to let the coffee flavor shine. Flavored gelatin (like fruit) would change the taste, which might not pair well with coffee.
How do I serve coffee jelly to guests?
I like cutting it into cubes and layering it in glasses with condensed milk or whipped cream. It’s also fun to add it to milk drinks or bubble tea for a coffee-flavored twist.
Conclusion
Coffee Jelly is one of my favorite low-effort, high-reward desserts. It’s cool, light, and full of rich coffee flavor, making it perfect for hot days or as an after-dinner treat. I love how customizable it is—whether I want it sweet, creamy, or with a hint of mocha, it always delivers. If I’m looking for something easy, elegant, and fun, coffee jelly is always a go-to.
📖 Recipe:
Coffee Jelly
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Coffee Jelly is a refreshing Japanese-inspired dessert made with strong coffee, sugar, and gelatin. It's an easy, cool treat perfect for warm days, with a unique texture and bold coffee flavor that can be served plain or topped with cream or sweetened condensed milk.
Ingredients
2 cups brewed strong coffee (hot)
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder
2 tablespoons cold water
Optional: sweetened condensed milk or whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
- Sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
- While the gelatin blooms, brew 2 cups of strong hot coffee.
- Stir the sugar into the hot coffee until fully dissolved.
- Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot coffee and stir until completely dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or individual serving cups.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Once firm, cut into cubes (if using a dish) or leave as is (if in cups).
- Top with sweetened condensed milk or whipped cream before serving, if desired.
Notes
Add vanilla extract for a flavor twist.
Mix in cocoa powder for a mocha version.
Use flavored coffee like hazelnut or caramel for variety.
Layer with condensed milk for a creamier dessert.
Use agar-agar for a vegan version (follow package instructions).
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Do not reheat; serve cold.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigerated
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
