Coffee Jelly

This simple recipe for Coffee Jelly is a fun and different way to enjoy caffeine, by transforming it into jelly cubes.

What is coffee jelly?

Coffee Jelly is a dessert made from coffee, gelatin/agar, and sugar.

Initially created in England, this dish is predominantly seen in Japan today.

There are variations using instant coffee (powdered) or fresh coffee.

Coffee jelly has a similar look and texture to grass jelly, just with coffee flavor instead of herbal notes.

What is agar?

Commonly referred to as agar agar, agar (known as kanten in Japanese) is derived from red algae seaweed native to Southeast Asia.

It is clear and odorless, predominantly used as a setting or gelling agent, similar to gelatin powder.

Agar comes in different forms:

• agar sheets: clear sheets made from seaweed that has been dried, washed and cooked and pressed into sheets; need to be soaked first before using
• agar flakes: coarse beige flakes, which is less concentrated but can be used interchangeably with powder as long as you use the correct amount
• agar powder: white/beige color powder; the easiest to use, very similar to gelatin powder; very concentrated

Why you'll love this recipe

Simple: just boil the agar powder with coffee, and you're halfway there! 

Minimal ingredients: only three ingredients -- you can use whatever coffee you drink, be it instant coffee or fresh brewed coffee, or cold brew coffee.

Unique: it's a way to enjoy coffee in a different form.

Vegan and gluten free: using agar powder makes this jelly vegan. If making fresh coffee (and not using instant coffee mix), this dessert can be easily dairy-free.

Ingredients you'll need

• agar powder: the easiest form of agar to use; you can find it in most Asian supermarkets
• coffee: you can use any type of coffee you like to drink; instant coffee or fresh brewed coffee, cold brew, or espresso (if using espresso shots, you will need to add a enough water to make up the difference) 
• granulated sugar: to taste

You can find these ingredients at your local supermarket or Asian grocery stores.

How to make it

Combine agar powder, coffee and sugar in a small saucepan.

Bring to a boil and whisk for 1-2 minutes.

Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a sieve into your desired mold or container.

Use a spoon to remove any bubbles on the surface.

Let cool and place into the fridge to chill for 1-2 hours, or until set.

Cut the jelly into squares or as desired.

Place a few jelly cubes into a glass and serve with condensed milk, milk or whipped cream.

Ways to enjoy coffee jelly

Serve Coffee Jelly chilled drinks such as bubble tea, milk tea, shaved ice, milkshakes, or in soft serve or vanilla ice cream.

Or try it with sweetened condensed milk, milk, and/or whipped cream.

Serving the coffee jelly with whipped cream is similar to having an espresso con panna.

Similarly, enjoying the coffee with vanilla ice cream is similar to an affogato, just in jelly form.

How to store

Store coffee jelly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Do not freeze coffee jelly as the texture will change.

Expert tips & substitutions

If there are bubbles on the top of the liquid, use a small spoon to remove them.

If you prefer a softer set jelly, reduce the agar powder to ½ tsp.

To help release the jelly, lightly run a sharp thin knife around the edges of the container. Place the container in a tub of hot water for 30 - 60 seconds to loosen, and then invert.

On measuring agar powder

The best way to measure agar (or gelatin) powder is to scoop the powder and level it off. That helps keeps the amount consistent. 

Using gelatin powder

You can use gelatin powder instead of agar powder. Note that gelatin powder is not vegan as it is derived from animal parts.

Use 1.5 teaspoon gelatin powder to set 250ml coffee.

Do not boil gelatin (unlike agar). Bloom the gelatin in a portion of cooled coffee (or cold water if using espresso0, and heat the remaining coffee in a saucepot. When the coffee is hot enough (but not boiling), whisk in the bloomed gelatin to combine, until dissolved. Then carry on with the remaining steps.

Other jelly recipes you may like

Be sure to check out these recipes:

Lychee Jelly

Coconut Jelly

Chinese Almond Jelly

Let me know if you try out this recipe -- tag me on Instagram @siftandsimmer or leave me a comment/rating below!