Coffee Kanten

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: Japanese

A refreshing Japanese-inspired coffee kanten dessert with rich coffee flavors, smooth gelatin texture, and a hint of sweet condensed milk, perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cool strong coffee
  • 3 packages gelatin
  • 2 1/2 cups hot strong coffee
  • 1 can tsubushi

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the gelatin into the cool strong coffee.
  2. Add the hot strong coffee to the gelatin mixture.
  3. Stir in the tsubushi and condensed milk.
  4. Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan and chill until set.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before adding the hot coffee. If you prefer a less intense coffee flavor, you can substitute half of the strong coffee with cold water or milk. Consider using flavored gelatin for a twist, or try incorporating a splash of vanilla extract for added depth. Always taste before chilling to adjust sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream or a drizzle of condensed milk for extra creaminess. This Coffee Kanten pairs beautifully with a slice of Holiday Coconut Cake Filling or can be enjoyed alongside a cup of your favorite afternoon tea. It's a delightful dessert to impress guests at gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cut into portions and gently warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just enough to soften without melting. Avoid prolonged heat to maintain the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Coffee Kanten contains roughly 770 calories, with 15g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 612mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).

770 kcal 38% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 14.6g 29% DV
Total Fat 31.3g 40% DV
Carbs 112.3g 41% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 107.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 612.1mg 27% DV
Potassium 322.3mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 98.7mg 33% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 202.2mcg 22% DV
Vitamin C 2mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 1.7mcg 9% DV
Calcium 224.7mg 17% DV
Iron 0.3mg 1% DV

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Yes, you can use instant coffee. Just dissolve the instant coffee in hot water to achieve a strong flavor. Aim for the same amount of coffee used in the recipe for consistency. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.

What is tsubushi and can I substitute it?

Tsubushi is a sweetened red bean paste commonly used in Japanese desserts. If you cannot find it, you can substitute with sweetened adzuki bean paste or even a fruit spread like Creamy Fruit Spread for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the Coffee Kanten is set?

The Coffee Kanten is set when it has a firm, jelly-like consistency and holds its shape when cut. This usually takes about 2-4 hours in the refrigerator. If it still feels liquidy, allow it to chill longer until firm.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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