Bicerin (Italian Coffee) Recipe

If you’re a coffee lover with a penchant for indulgent flavors, the Bicerin is a must-try Italian delight. Hailing from the historic city of Turin in northern Italy, Bicerin (pronounced “bee-cheh-REEN”) is more than just a coffee; it’s a layered symphony of espresso, rich hot chocolate, and creamy milk or cream, served in a small glass. This decadent drink has been warming hearts and delighting palates since the 18th century, making it a staple of Italian café culture.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through crafting your own Bicerin at home, sharing tips to perfect its distinctive layers and balance of flavors. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly day or looking to impress guests with a unique coffee experience, this Bicerin (Italian Coffee) recipe is the perfect way to savor a slice of Italian heritage.

Bicerin (Italian Coffee) Recipe

Bicerin is a delightful Italian beverage that beautifully combines rich hot chocolate, bold espresso, and creamy whipped milk or cream. This step-by-step guide will walk you through each part of the process to ensure you achieve the perfect layered drink.

Ingredients

For the Hot Chocolate:

• 150g (about 5.3 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa): Choose high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
• 75g (about 2.6 oz) whole milk: Whole milk provides a creamy texture; you can substitute with a plant-based milk if desired.
• 50g (about 1.8 oz) sugar: Adjust according to your sweetness preference.
• Few drops of hazelnut extract (optional): Adds a lovely nutty flavor.

For the Espresso:

• 6 double shots of freshly brewed espresso: Use a good-quality coffee for the best taste. If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee can be an alternative.

For the Whipped Cream:

• 200g (about 7 oz) double cream or heavy whipping cream: This will create a rich topping.
• Optional: confectioners’ sugar to taste: Sweeten the whipped cream if desired.

Equipment Needed

• Clear heat-proof glasses or stemmed wine glasses (10 to 12 oz): These allow you to see the beautiful layers.
• Small saucepan: For melting the chocolate.
• Hand mixer or whisk: To whip the cream.
• Spoon: For layering and serving.

Other Coffee Recipes –

• Caramel Iced Coffee
• Bosnian Coffee
• Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipe
• Nitro Cold Brew Coffee

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hot Chocolate

1. Chop the Chocolate:
   • Start by finely chopping the dark chocolate into small pieces. This helps it melt evenly and quickly.
2. Heat Milk and Chocolate:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the chopped chocolate and whole milk over low heat. Stir continuously with a spatula or wooden spoon to prevent burning.
   • As the mixture heats, keep stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and integrated into the milk, resulting in a smooth, glossy hot chocolate.
3. Add Sugar and Flavoring:
   • Once melted, add sugar to taste. Stir until fully dissolved. If using hazelnut extract, add a few drops now for extra flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Brew the Espresso

1. Brew Fresh Espresso:
   • While your hot chocolate is cooling slightly, brew your espresso shots using an espresso machine or stovetop espresso maker.
   • Aim for about 6 double shots (approximately 180 ml or 6 oz total). If you prefer a less intense drink, you can reduce this to about 4 shots.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. Prepare the Cream:
   • Pour the double cream into a mixing bowl. Ensure that your bowl is cold for better whipping results; you can chill it in the refrigerator beforehand.
2. Whip to Soft Peaks:
   • Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip; you want it fluffy but still pourable.
   • If desired, add confectioners’ sugar gradually while whipping to sweeten it to your liking.

Step 4: Assemble the Bicerin

1. Layering Technique:
   • Take your clear glasses and start with the hot chocolate. Pour it into each glass until it fills about one-third of the way up.
2. Add Espresso Layer:
   • Using a spoon held just above the hot chocolate layer, slowly pour in a double shot of espresso over the back of the spoon. This technique helps create a distinct layer without mixing.
3. Top with Whipped Cream:
   • Finally, again using the back of a spoon, gently add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of the espresso layer. This should sit nicely without sinking.

Step 5: Serve

1. Presentation:
   • Your Bicerin is now beautifully layered! Do not stir; instead, serve immediately so that your guests can enjoy watching as they sip through each layer.
2. Enjoy!:
   • Serve with a small spoon or straw for stirring if desired, but encourage sipping through each layer to appreciate the flavors and textures.

Tips for Making Bicerin (Italian Coffee) Better

• Quality Ingredients Matter: The better your chocolate and coffee, the richer your Bicerin will be.
• Temperature Control: Ensure that all components are warm when assembling to maintain distinct layers.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract for additional depth in flavor.

Enjoy this luxurious Italian treat as an indulgent breakfast beverage or an afternoon pick-me-up!