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Coffee Jelly

Coffee jelly (コーヒーゼリー) is coffee set into a soft jelly, usually cut into cubes and served with cream, milk or syrup. It is a classic at Japanese kissaten and also appears in parfaits, sundaes and iced drinks.

Places
3
Popular in
Tokyo
Served in
Dessert cafe

History

Coffee jelly became a familiar dessert in Japan through kissaten, traditional coffee shops, and is now also found at cafés and other shops.

Why people love it

It is lightly bitter and refreshing, and cream softens the coffee flavour. Some kissaten make it with coffee brewed in the shop, so it can taste different from shop to shop.

How people enjoy it

It makes a light dessert after a meal or alongside coffee, and is especially refreshing in warm weather. Some kissaten make only a limited number each day.

Places to visit

Find places serving coffee jelly →

Related topics

Frequently asked questions

Is it sweet?
Sweetness varies by recipe. Syrup adds sweetness; cream or milk softens the coffee's bitterness.
Does it contain caffeine?
Usually, because it is made with coffee. Ask whether the shop uses decaffeinated coffee if that matters to you.
Is it made with gelatin or agar?
Either can be used. Agar sets firmer, gelatin softer and more wobbly.
What else is it served in?
Coffee jelly is also used in parfaits, sundaes and iced drinks with milk or ice cream.