Save This Coffee Jelly Latte is my favorite way to impress friends at brunch or cool down on a hot afternoon. Silky coffee jelly cubes pair with creamy milk and a shot of espresso, creating a unique treat that blurs the line between dessert and drink. Each sip combines the boldness of coffee, the playful texture of jelly, and the gentleness of frothy milk.
I first fell in love with this after tasting a similar version in a Japanese café. Now I whip it up whenever I want something a little different than my usual iced latte. My friends ask me for the recipe every time.
Ingredients
- Unflavored gelatin powder: for setting the coffee into jelly squares choose a high quality brand for best texture
- Granulated sugar: adds just the right amount of sweetness try superfine for faster dissolving
- Hot brewed coffee: forms the flavorful base for the jelly use your favorite strong blend for best taste
- Cold milk: provides creamy richness both dairy and plant based work well full fat adds extra luxury
- Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee: gives the drink its classic latte vibe always brew fresh if possible
- Sugar optional: adjusts sweetness to preference taste after assembling
- Ice cubes: keep the latte chilled I like using large format cubes
- Whipped cream optional: for a dessert like finish light and airy is best
- Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings optional garnish: for added flair choose a good quality dark chocolate
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Jelly:
- In a heatproof bowl combine your hot brewed coffee and sugar stirring until everything is fully dissolved This creates a balanced sweet base without graininess Add the gelatin by sprinkling it slowly over the surface and whisking immediately to ensure even distribution Allow no lumps so the jelly will set smooth
- Chill and Set:
- Carefully pour your dissolved coffee gelatin mixture into a small dish or pan Aim for an even layer between half and one inch thick Let it cool down slightly at room temperature before transferring to the fridge Chill at least two hours to set completely
- Cut the Jelly:
- Once the jelly is firm use a sharp knife to carefully cut it into small cubes Each should be about one centimeter wide This step is satisfying and creates the signature texture
- Assemble the Latte:
- Divide the jelly cubes evenly between two tall glasses Add ice cubes for extra chill but do not overfill
- Add the Milk:
- Slowly pour cold milk into each glass over the jelly cubes Pouring gently preserves the layers for a stunning look
- Pour the Espresso:
- Brew fresh espresso if possible and gently pour one shot over each glass You will see a beautiful swirling effect as coffee meets milk
- Sweeten to Taste:
- Add a little sugar if you like it sweeter Stir lightly or leave unsweetened for deeper coffee notes
- Top and Serve:
- If desired top with a big swirl of whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings Serve immediately with a straw and long spoon
Save My favorite part is watching the jelly cubes jiggle in the glass—we all end up grinning at the table. Once I whipped these up for a summer movie night and everyone was so delighted they requested a second round.
Storage Tips
You can make the coffee jelly up to three days ahead Store the cubes in an airtight container in the fridge They hold their bounce best cold Place a sheet of parchment between layers if stacking to prevent sticking The drink itself is best enjoyed freshly assembled since the ice and milk will break down the jelly texture if left too long
Ingredient Substitutions
Agar agar powder can replace gelatin for a fully vegan option Just follow the specific instructions on your brand For best milk flavor use any favorite creamy plant milk like oat or almond Espresso can be swapped with double strength cold brew when you do not have a machine
Serving Suggestions
Serve in clear tall glasses so everyone can admire the layers For parties set out a toppings bar with whipped cream chocolate chips or flavored syrups like hazelnut or vanilla Pair this with light tea sandwiches or delicate pastries for an elegant cafe style snack
Cultural and Historical Background
Coffee jelly originated in Japan in the early twentieth century and became a popular retro dessert there For many it is nostalgic and comforting Mixing it with a latte is a newer twist and has caught on with the modern boba tea and iced coffee crowd
Seasonal Adaptations
For a summer spin use chilled coconut milk for a tropical feel In cooler months try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the jelly mixture for warmth You can even layer the drink with vanilla or caramel syrup along the glass walls for festive occasions
Save Enjoy every slurp of this playful latte with friends or family. It is guaranteed to become a requested favorite for coffee lovers and dessert fans alike.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → How do I make coffee jelly cubes?
Combine hot coffee with sugar, dissolve gelatin, pour into a dish, and chill until set, then cut into cubes.
- → Can I use plant-based milk for this drink?
Yes, substitute dairy milk with any preferred plant-based option for a dairy-free version.
- → Is there a vegan alternative to gelatin?
You can use agar-agar instead of gelatin; follow package instructions for setting your jelly cubes.
- → How do I serve coffee jelly with latte?
Divide jelly cubes in glasses, add milk, top with espresso, sweeten to taste, and serve with spoon and straw.
- → What toppings go well with this drink?
Whipped cream, cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or flavored syrups add extra flavor and visual appeal.
- → Is the drink suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, just ensure gelatin or its substitute fits your dietary needs and use vegetarian-friendly ingredients.