Name: Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, chilled; 3 tablespoons instant espresso powder or strong instant coffee; 3 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

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If you’re searching for a truly dreamy pick-me-up, Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) is about to become your latest kitchen obsession. This lush, whipped blend is like a cloud of espresso-infused heaven—light, luscious, and ready in mere minutes with just a handful of pantry staples. Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating yourself to a moment of sweet luxury, this chilled classic wraps the deep flavors of your favorite café into a decadently creamy dessert that’s as easy to devour as it is to make.

Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, chilled
- 3 tablespoons instant espresso powder or strong instant coffee
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

How to Make Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè)

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

Start by grabbing a chilled mixing bowl and add in the heavy cream, instant espresso powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract if you’re using it. The colder your cream and bowl, the easier it will be to whip up the perfect texture, so don’t rush this step if you want truly fluffy results!

Step 2: Whip to Creamy Perfection

Using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer set to medium-high speed, begin whipping. Watch as the mixture quickly morphs into a thick, billowy cream. Keep an eye out for soft peaks—meaning when you lift the beaters, the cream will hold its shape but still look gently droopy on the tip. This usually takes just a couple of minutes, and stopping at soft peaks is the secret to achieving that super-silky consistency without risking a grainy result.

Step 3: Spoon and Chill

Once it’s beautifully whipped, use a spatula to transfer the Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) into small dessert glasses or espresso cups. It’ll look almost too pretty to eat! Place your filled cups in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, which lets the flavors marry and the cream set ever so slightly for that signature mousse-like feel.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Just before serving, you can top each portion with a little dusting of cocoa powder or a few glossy coffee beans for a stylish finish. Grab a spoon and dive in—the layers of flavor and texture will make every bite feel like a tiny Italian holiday.

How to Serve Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè)

Garnishes

To highlight the elegance of Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè), a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few whole espresso beans adds an irresistibly inviting look. You might also try delicate chocolate shavings, a swirl of whipped cream, or even a pinch of cinnamon for something a little different. Each garnish is more than just a pretty face—they give extra aroma and an appealing contrast to the creamy base.

Side Dishes

Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) pairs beautifully with crisp biscotti, paper-thin cantuccini, or even simple butter cookies. For a true Italian twist, serve it alongside a tiny glass of dessert wine or an after-dinner limoncello. The creamy texture of this dessert is lovely next to something crunchy or zesty, making the experience feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, serve your Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) in elegant espresso cups, shot glasses, or mini mason jars. Layer it with chocolate curls or add a spoonful atop a simple brownie or pound cake. Turn it into a coffee parfait with alternating layers of crushed cookies or even a drizzle of caramel—let your imagination run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) will keep well in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to two days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but a brief chill allows the flavors to deepen even more. Just make sure it’s protected from absorbing any fridge odors!

Freezing

While the texture of whipped cream isn’t quite the same once frozen and thawed, you can freeze Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) for up to a month. Spoon leftovers into airtight containers and freeze; when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. The result will be closer to a semifreddo or a frozen mousse—still delicious, just a little denser.

Reheating

Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) is designed to be served cold so skip any kind of reheating. If you find your dessert a bit too stiff after chilling, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. That’s all it needs to regain its perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use freshly brewed espresso instead of instant espresso powder?

For this recipe, instant espresso powder is preferred because it dissolves completely in the cream without watering it down. Freshly brewed espresso would add too much liquid, making it hard for the cream to whip properly.

How can I make Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap out the heavy cream for chilled coconut cream—just be sure you refrigerate your can of coconut milk and use the thick cream from the top. The coconut adds its own subtle flavor, but the dessert still comes together beautifully.

Is it possible to make this less sweet?

Yes, feel free to adjust the powdered sugar to suit your taste. Since no baking is involved, you can taste as you go—add a little less sugar at first, whip, and see if it suits your palate before serving.

Can I make Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) ahead of time?

This dessert is meant for make-ahead magic! Prepare it several hours in advance or even a day ahead, then cover and chill in the fridge until you’re ready to wow your guests (or treat yourself).

What should I do if I overwhip the cream?

If you accidentally whip the cream past soft peaks and it starts to look grainy or stiff, try gently folding in a little more chilled cream until the texture turns silky again. This will smooth things out and rescue your dessert.

Final Thoughts

Few desserts are as effortlessly elegant and satisfying as Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè). Whether you’re a coffee devotee or just love trying classic Italian treats at home, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your sweet repertoire. Give it a whirl, and get ready for pure creamy joy in every spoonful!

Italian Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè) Recipe

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Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Italian Coffee Cream, also known as Crema al Caffè. This luscious dessert combines the bold flavors of espresso with the smoothness of whipped cream for a decadent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, chilled
3 tablespoons instant espresso powder or strong instant coffee
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

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Instructions

Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine chilled heavy cream, instant espresso powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
Transfer and Chill: Spoon the coffee cream into serving glasses. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Serve: Enjoy chilled, optionally garnished with cocoa powder or coffee beans.