Crema al caffè (Italian Coffee Cream) is a frothy, chilled dessert made with just three ingredients, perfect as a summer treat. This whipped specialty coffee is enjoyed with a spoon, and is a refreshing snack or a delicious after dinner indulgence.

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- 💖Why we love Italian coffee dessert:
- 🛒 Ingredients in crema al caffe:
- Equipment you need to make coffee with cream:
- 🍽️ How to add cream to coffee?
- What to serve with Italian coffee drink recipe?
- 🫙 Leftover and Storing coffee cream dessert:
- 📃 Substitutions & Variations for crema de café:
- ☑️ Lora's Tips for espresso cream:
- ❓ FAQ'S
- Some other recipes you'll love:
- 📖 Recipe
- Crema al caffè (Italian Coffee Cream)
Crema al caffè, also known as Italian coffee cream, is a delightful treat that embodies the rich and robust flavors of Italian coffee culture. This smooth and creamy dessert is perfect for coffee lovers looking to enjoy their favorite beverage in a new and refreshing way. When the temperatures are scorching hot, this is what you'll reach for instead of a hot espresso!
You can even make this with any leftover espresso you have. Just be sure to chill it, even the night before!
So don’t expect to see any of those creamers or non-dairy creamers you love, because this one uses real cream and the main difference will be that you will not be using this cream recipe as you would use a creamer.
Crema al caffè is not going to take the place of your morning coffee. This coffee cream is to be eaten with a spoon, replacing your iced or hot coffee, and could be enjoyed as dessert.
The recipe is simple yet indulgent, combining espresso, sugar, and heavy cream to create a velvety texture that is both satisfying and luxurious. Originating from Italy, crema al caffè is a popular choice in cafes and homes alike, particularly during the warm summer months.
To make this delicious Italian coffee cream, you start with a strong shot of espresso, which forms the base of the recipe. Combine the espresso with sugar while it’s still hot to make sure the sugar completely dissolves. As soon as it's cooled, the mixture is incorporated while you're finishing whipping the heavy cream, creating a light and airy texture.
You can enjoy this dessert immediately or chilled for a more refreshing experience. Whether served in small cups or used as a topping for other desserts, crema al caffè is versatile and simply irresistible.
Crema al caffè is a testament to the Italian appreciation for good coffee and simple, high-quality ingredients. This coffee cream dessert is perfect if you're dreaming of enjoying a taste of Italy without leaving your kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s a beloved treat in Italian homes and cafes.
If you like this recipe you might like my espresso shortbreads and mini chocolate espresso Bundt cakes.
💖Why we love Italian coffee dessert:
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of espresso and heavy cream creates a luxurious and smooth texture.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a standalone dessert or use it as a topping for cakes and other sweets.
- Authentic Italian Flavor: Experience a true taste of Italy with every bite.
- Perfect for Coffee Lovers: If you love coffee, this dessert is a delightful way to enjoy its flavors in a new form.
- Impressive yet Simple: This recipe is sure to impress guests while being easy enough for everyday indulgence.
🛒 Ingredients in crema al caffe:
Here is all you need to make this luscious coffee dessert.
- Espresso: This is best made only with espresso coffee; regular coffee has too mild of a flavor. I like to use Illy or Lavazza. After you make it, it is cooled down in the fridge before you gets added to the whipped cream.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the coffee and you can adjust the amount based on personal preference for sweetness. It's added while the coffee is hot to so that it dissolves completely. Confectioner's sugar could also be used.
- Whole/Whipping/Heavy Cream : Make sure the cream is nice and cold so that it whips up Choose a cream with at least 30% fat content for a rich, luxurious texture that holds up well when whipped into the coffee.
Equipment you need to make coffee with cream:
- Espresso Machine: A nice Espresso machine with single-dose capsules.
- Moka: You could also make the coffee in a moka with ground coffee. A moka is the beloved traditional way to make espresso in Italy. An Italian moka (in Italian it is also called a "Caffettiera" ).
- Mixer: You'll either need a stand mixer or a basic electric hand whisk mixer with a bowl. You could attempt to whip the cream by hand with a hand whisk, but it will take some time and some arm work.
- Cups: Italian style Moka cafe espresso cups are also important for serving this cafe crema. Or use these little bit more fancy Espresso cups.
- Bowls: You could serve it in small glass bowls as a dessert.
- Spoons: You'll need dessert spoons to enjoy the cream.
🍽️ How to add cream to coffee?
Here is how to make this delicious coffee cream (the full recipe is below!):
Gather the ingredients. There are only 3, so make sure they're prepped and ready to go!
- Step 1: First thing to do is brew your espresso in the espresso maker or use a pod. I do not recommend using American coffee as it's too watered. This needs to be stronger to get the delicious flavor.
- Step 2: Add sugar to the coffee and stir to combine. Chill the coffee completely.
- Step 3: Whip the cream with a handheld mixer or a stand mixer to soft peaks with a handheld mixer or a stand mixer until it begins to get soft and fluffy.
- Step 4: As soon as it is fluffy, soft peaks, begin to add in the espresso and mix it in until combined.
- Step 5: Spoon out the coffee cream into a container and cover it. Chill in the refrigerator for one hour.
- Step 6: When it's nicely chilled, spoon into espresso cups or small glass cups or bowls. Dust with cocoa powder, if you like.
📃 NOTE: Recipe card with detailed instructions are below! Print it out for later!
What to serve with Italian coffee drink recipe?
Coffee cream goes well with so many things:
- Biscotti:
- Traditional Italian almond biscuits that pair perfectly with coffee cream for a delightful crunch.
- Fresh Berries:
- Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing and tangy contrast to the creamy texture.
- Amaretti Cookies:
- Light and airy almond-flavored cookies that complement the rich flavor of Crema al Caffe.
- Chocolate Shavings:
- Sprinkle dark or milk chocolate shavings on top for an added touch of sweetness and elegance.
- Pastries:
- Mini croissants, pain au chocolat, or puff pastries add a buttery, flaky element to the dessert.
- Fruit Tart:
- A fruit tart with a crisp crust and juicy filling, like this apple galette, pairs well with the creamy coffee flavor.
- Gelato or Ice Cream:
- A scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or hazelnut gelato complements the coffee cream and adds a cool, creamy element.
- Espresso or Coffee:
- Serve a small shot of espresso or a cup of coffee alongside for an extra coffee kick.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries:
- Sweet and decadent, these make a luxurious pairing with the smooth coffee cream.
- Cantuccini:
- Crunchy almond cookies that are perfect for dipping into the Crema al Caffe.
- Cheese Plate:
- A selection of mild cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone with some honey or fig jam.
- Whipped Cream:
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Hazelnut Spread:
- Serve with a side of hazelnut spread like Nutella for a rich, nutty addition.
- Caramel Sauce:
- Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the Crema al Caffe for a sweet and buttery flavor.
🫙 Leftover and Storing coffee cream dessert:
Store any leftovers of Italian coffee cream in a glass jar with a lid or an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It's best to enjoy when it's freshly made.
📃 Substitutions & Variations for crema de café:
- Dairy-Free Version:
- Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. The coconut cream needs to be well-chilled before whipping.
- Almond Milk: Use almond milk creamer instead of heavy cream for a lighter, nutty flavor.
- Flavored Crema al Caffe:
- Vanilla: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the whipping cream for a subtle vanilla flavor.
- Chocolate: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the coffee before chilling for a mocha variation.
- Sweeteners:
- Honey or Agave: Replace granulated sugar with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener. Adjust the amount to taste.
- Stevia: Use a few drops of liquid stevia for a low-calorie sweetener option.
- Spiced Coffee Cream:
- Cinnamon: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the coffee for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nutmeg: Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg into the whipping cream for an aromatic touch.
- Alcohol-Infused:
- Liqueur: For a boozy twist and just for adults, add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur (like Kahlua) or Irish cream to the coffee before chilling.
- Rum or Brandy: A splash of rum or brandy could be mixed in for a more complex flavor.
- Lower Fat Option:
- Light Cream: Use light cream instead of heavy cream for a lower-fat version. Note that it may not whip up as thick, so adjust expectations accordingly.
- Greek Yogurt: Mix half Greek yogurt and half light cream for a tangy, lower-fat alternative.
- Additional Toppings:
- Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness.
- Nut Flakes: Sprinkle chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- Coffee Strength:
- Decaf Coffee: Use decaffeinated coffee if you prefer a caffeine-free version.
- Instant Espresso: Substitute brewed espresso with instant espresso powder dissolved in hot water for convenience.
☑️ Lora's Tips for espresso cream:
- Use Fresh, High-Quality Coffee:
- Be sure to prepare freshly brewed strong espresso gives the best flavor.
- Chill the Coffee Properly:
- Refrigerate the coffee until it's very cold, ideally overnight. Whipped cream can reach the right consistency when it's mixed with the cold coffee.
- Adjust Sugar to Taste:
- Start with 2 teaspoons of sugar and adjust to your preference. You may like the flavor with 1-2 teaspoons more. Sweeter coffee will balance the bitterness of the espresso.
- Chill Mixing Bowl and Beaters:
- For better whipping results, chill the mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before whipping the cream.
- Use Cold Cream:
- Make sure the whipping cream is very cold. It's the best way to get a stable whip and the right texture.
- Beat to Soft Peaks First:
- Beat the cream to soft peaks before adding the coffee. This provides a good base and prevents over-whipping. If you overwhip, you will be making butter.
- Slowly Drizzle Coffee:
- Add the cold coffee slowly while continuing to beat the cream. This gradual addition helps maintain the cream's texture and consistency.
- Do Not Overbeat:
- Avoid overbeating after adding the coffee to prevent the cream from turning grainy or butter-like. Stop once the mixture is thick and well-combined.
- Refrigerate Before Serving:
- Refrigerate the whipped coffee cream for at least an hour before serving. This helps the texture to firm up and the flavors to meld.
- Serve in Small Glasses:
- Use small glasses or cups slightly larger than an espresso cup to serve. It's the perfect portion size to enjoy the cream as a rich after-dinner treat.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor:
- For a bit of elegance and extra flavor, sprinkle on some cocoa powder or chocolate flakes just before serving.
- Make Ahead:
- Crema al Caffe can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Stir gently before serving to restore the texture.
❓ FAQ'S
What is crema al caffe?
Crema al caffè is an Italian dessert-like coffee treat made with espresso, sugar, and whipped cream. It's served cold and has a creamy, smooth texture.
What is cafe crem?
Cafe crem, also known as café crème, is another term for cafe crema, a long espresso drink with a significant layer of crema on top, offering a balanced and milder flavor than a traditional espresso.
What is in a cafe crema?
Cafe crema is a coffee drink similar to espresso but brewed longer to create a larger volume. It typically includes a layer of rich, creamy foam on top.
What is the crema in a coffee?
The crema is the golden, creamy layer that forms on top of a well-pulled espresso shot. It consists of emulsified oils and gases released during the brewing process, indicating fresh, high-quality coffee.
What is the meaning of caffè crema?
Caffè crema refers to a long espresso drink popular in Switzerland and Northern Italy, known for its larger volume and a creamy layer of crema on top.
What is crema composed of?
Crema is composed of emulsified coffee oils, carbon dioxide, and other gases that are released during the espresso brewing process. It contributes to the rich flavor and mouthfeel of the coffee.
Is it unhealthy to have coffee with cream on a regular basis?
Drinking coffee with cream regularly can be part of a healthy diet if consumed in moderation. However, it adds calories and fat, so it's important to balance with other dietary choices.
Can I send back an espresso based drink with no crema?
Yes, you can send back an espresso-based drink with no crema. Crema is a sign of a properly brewed espresso, and its absence may indicate an issue with the brewing process or coffee quality.
How bad is drinking coffee with cream and sugar every single day?
Drinking coffee with cream and sugar daily can add significant calories and sugar to your diet, potentially leading to weight gain and other health issues. Moderation and balance with other dietary habits are key.
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📖 Recipe
Crema al caffè (Italian Coffee Cream)
Equipment
- 1 espresso maker
- 1 glass bowl
- espresso cups
Ingredients
- ¼ cup espresso coffee
- 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar add more to sweeten to your taste
- 1 ¼ cups whole/whipping/heavy cream very cold
Instructions
- Make the coffee: Brew your espresso in the espresso maker or use a pod.
- Sweeten to your taste: Add sugar to the coffee and stir to combine. Chill the coffee completely.
- Whip the cream: Whip the cold cream with a handheld mixer or a stand mixer to soft peaks with a handheld mixer or a stand mixer until it begins to get soft and fluffy.
- Add in espresso coffee: As soon as it is fluffy and soft peaks begin to form, begin to add in the chilled espresso and mix it in until combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator: Spoon out the coffee cream into a container and cover it. Chill in the refrigerator for one hour.
- Serve: When it's nicely chilled, spoon into espresso cups or small glass cups or bowls. Serve immediately. Dust with cocoa powder or shaved chocolate, if you like.
Nutrition Disclaimer
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information presented below is an approximation and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Notes
- Coffee: This coffee cream dessert should be made only with espresso coffee. If you have any leftover you can chill it and make even the next day. It's a great way to use up some extra espresso you brewed. I like to use my Bialetti Moka to make this, but it can be made with any sort of espresso pod machine.
- Sugar: You could make this even with powdered sugar. It is up to you and what you have on hand.
- Cream: You could even make it dairy-free. Whip up whatever dairy free milk you know whips up nicely and make it with that.
- Storage: Any extra can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days in an airtight container. I kept my leftovers for 3 days and it was still creamy and delicious.
- Serving: Nutrition was calculated as if you were serving it in a short glass like as a dessert. It will vary on the portion you serve and how much sugar you use (to your taste).
Jules says
I had this in Italy last summer and I had to make this as soon as I saw this. SO GOOD! I kept in freezer a little too long, but it softened kind of quickly since it's so hot. I added a little more sugar because I like it more sweet.