Bicerin: Chocolate, Espresso, and Hazelnut Coffee Drink Recipe
Bicerin is a traditional Italian layered coffee drink from Turin, combining rich dark chocolate, freshly brewed espresso, and whipped cream, offering a decadent and comforting beverage that delightfully balances bitterness, sweetness, and creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Mixture
- 125ml double cream
- 250ml whole milk or single cream
- 50g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa solids), finely chopped
- Demerara sugar, to taste
Coffee and Toppings
- 2 shots freshly brewed espresso
- 10g hazelnuts, finely grated or chopped
- Pinch of cocoa powder
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: Whisk the double cream in a bowl until it thickens and holds its shape but remains pourable. Set the whipped cream aside for topping.
- Prepare Chocolate Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the whole milk (or single cream) and finely chopped dark chocolate. Place over low-medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk until the chocolate completely melts and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Simmer and Sweeten: Lower the heat to low and allow the chocolate mixture to simmer gently while continuously whisking to keep it smooth. Add demerara sugar according to taste, blending it evenly.
- Warm Glasses: Rinse two heatproof glasses with hot water to warm them, then dry thoroughly to retain heat when serving.
- Assemble the Bicerin: Pour two shots of freshly brewed espresso into the warmed glasses. Carefully layer the hot chocolate mixture over the espresso. Finally, top each drink with the whipped cream, sprinkle finely chopped hazelnuts on top, and finish with a pinch of cocoa powder for garnish.
Notes
- Use at least 70% cocoa dark chocolate for a rich, authentic flavor.
- Adjust demerara sugar to your preferred sweetness level.
- Ensure chocolate mixture is warm but not boiling vigorously to prevent burning.
- Finely chopping hazelnuts enhances texture and presentation without overpowering the taste.
- This drink is best served immediately while warm and fresh.
Keywords: Bicerin, Italian coffee, dark chocolate coffee, espresso drink, layered coffee, traditional Italian beverage, hot chocolate espresso
