Espresso Con Panna

Espresso con panna, or “espresso with cream,” is an irresistible drink: the perfect blend of rich whipped cream and bitter coffee.

Here’s a caffeinated treat that works any time of the day: although it almost passes for dessert! Attempt Espresso with bread: A shot of espresso with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The two ingredients go together perfectly: the gourmet foam cream to go with the bitter and hazelnut coffee is a real treat. It’s a small portion: just the right bite for a long afternoon or an after-dinner treat.

What is espresso con panna?

Espresso with panna (“espresso with cream” in Italian) is a coffee drink made with a single or double espresso topped with a dollop of whipped cream. It is often served in a half cup or small glass. Popular in Europe, you can order it at most coffee shops in the United States, including Starbucks.

While you can make an espresso con panna with a single espresso, we prefer using a double shot to make a larger drink. But still, it’s only ¼ cup of coffee with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream. This mini drink is the perfect little treat (especially compared to all the calories loaded into those giant Starbucks lattes).

Now jump straight to the recipe: or learn more about the ingredients of this drink!

Make it with homemade whipped cream

Espresso con panna is a treat because it’s made with real whipped cream: not cream out of a box! If you do it at home, you have to do the right things. (In fact, we left out the box altogether because it’s so easy to make your own.) Here’s what you need to do:

• Make enough for two. You can’t make a single batch of whipped cream as it’s too difficult to whip up just 2 tablespoons (there isn’t enough liquid). Store extra cream in the refrigerator for up to 2 days if making just one drink.
• Whip cream with a whisk: It takes a bit of muscle power, but it’s easy! In a medium bowl, combine ¼ cup heavy cream with ½ tablespoon powdered sugar and 1 pinch vanilla extract. Beat vigorously until thick and creamy!

Make the espresso

The key to an espresso con panna at home? An excellent espresso method. Whichever method you choose, use espresso roast coffee: this is important for a rich, robust flavor (we like Illy, Starbucks, or Intelligentsia espresso roast). Here are our best espresso methods:

And that’s it! Make a double espresso and top with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream. You’ll be amazed by the rich, creamy taste of this little drink! Scroll down to the recipe for full details.

More espresso drinks

Do you like preparing espresso drinks at home? Here are some favorites you might like: