Japanese Coffee Jelly Recipe – Japanese Special

Japanese Coffee Jelly is a delightful chilled dessert featuring bold coffee flavor transformed into a smooth, coffee-flavored jelly with silky texture. Lightly sweetened and set using gelatin or traditional agar (kanten), it’s often cut into cubes and served with cream or condensed milk for a creamy contrast. Ideal for hot days, this elegant yet simple treat brings a touch of café-style refreshment right to your home.

  • Prep Time5 min
  • Cook Time5 min
  • Perform Time5 hr 15 min
  • Total Time5 hr 25 min

Japanese Coffee Jelly Ingredients :

  • 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin powder
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 cups strong brewed black coffee
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • Optional: Whipped cream

How To Make Japanese Coffee Jelly

1

Gather all the ingredients needed for the Japanese coffee jelly recipe.

2

In a small bowl, thoroughly dissolve the gelatin powder in water using a fork.

3

In a medium saucepan, combine the brewed coffee and sugar. Heat over medium-high heat until the mixture is almost boiling. Remove from heat and whisk in the dissolved gelatin mixture until completely dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes.

4

Pour the coffee gelatin mixture into a shallow baking dish, such as an 8- or 9-inch square dish or an 11 x 7-inch dish. Refrigerate until the jelly is fully set, which typically takes about 5 hours.

5

Once set, cut the coffee jelly into 1/2-inch cubes using a large knife.

6

Spoon the coffee jelly cubes into individual serving dishes. Optionally, top with whipped cream before serving.

Recipe Notes

Agar vs Gelatin: Use agar (kanten) for a slightly firmer, traditional texture; gelatin offers a softer, wobbly mouthfeel.

Serve Cold: Chill the jelly thoroughly—best enjoyed straight from the refrigerator to maintain its refreshing coolness.

Cream Topping: Top with whipped cream, milk, or condensed milk to add richness and a creamy counterpoint to the coffee flavor.

Strong Coffee: Use strong-brewed coffee or espresso for a pronounced coffee taste even when chilled.

Creative Variations: Mix cubes into iced lattes, parfaits, or boba drinks for added texture and flavor.