coffee granita with whipped cream comes to you straight from Rome!
I have such love for this recipe for coffee granita with whipped cream – and so excited to be sharing it with you!
what is granita?
Granita is an icy dessert, typically made from sugar, water and fruit – although we are going to use coffee here in place of water!
is granita the same as sorbet?
Other than the fact that they are both frozen desserts, granita and sorbet are very different. Sorbet is typically churned, making it smooth in texture and without any icy crystals.
Granita, on the other hand, is ALL icy crystals. It’s made in a similar fashion to shaved ice, and results in a very distinctive (and delicious!) texture.
what’s in granita?
A typical granita recipe consists of three ingredients – a simple syrup (made from sugar and water), blended with fruit, fruit juice or a fruit puree. For this “granita di caffe” we are using simply fresh brewed coffee and sugar.
I have this treat every day when I’m in Rome!
My hands-down favorite coffee shop in Rome is Tazza d’Oro. It is around the corner from my favorite building – the Pantheon – and where I start each day. I also do my best to make it back there sometime in the afternoon for a “granita di caffe con panna” – or coffee granita with whipped cream – as it is the perfect summer midday treat!
how do you make it?
You’ll start by dissolving granulated sugar into fresh brewed coffee or espresso, and pouring the mixture into a shallow baking dish. Pop it in the freezer and let it sit for about an hour. Here’s where the fun begins! To achieve the signature icy crystals you need to break up the mixture periodically as it starts to freeze. I usually do this 2 or 3 times before letting it freeze overnight.
Once frozen, scrape with a fork, transfer to a bowl and pop back in the freezer till ready to serve! This dish is layered with “panna”, or lightly sweetened whipped cream and is basically heaven on earth – you must try it!
frequently asked questions!
can I use decaffeinated coffee instead of regular?
can you make this in advance?
can you add any flavorings to the whipped cream recipe?
can you serve this with ice cream instead of (or in addition to) the whipped cream?
It’s hot as blazes this July, and I can’t think of a more perfect way to cool off than with this beloved dessert – it is one of my favorite frozen treats ever and I know you’ll love it too. Let me know if you make it!
Coffee Granita with Whipped Cream
Ingredients
For the granita:
- 4 cups freshly brewed strong coffee
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the whipped cream:
- 2 cups chilled heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
Make the granita:
- Stir the sugar into the coffee till dissolved (you can do this over a low heat to speed up the process). Stir in the vanilla and pour into a large rectangular baking dish. Place in the freezer.
- After one hour remove from the freezer and use a potato masher to start breaking up any icy chunks that have formed around the edges - use the masher to stir the mixture and return to the freezer. After another hour repeat. At this point the mixture should have an overall slushy texture - if not return to the freezer for about 30 - 45 minutes. Break it up again, give it a stir and freeze for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Use a fork to scrape the granita down the length of the pan, forming icy flakes. Scoop into a bowl and freeze for one hour, or up to one month.
Make the whipped cream:
- Beat the heavy cream and sugar till soft peaks form.
- To serve, place a few scoops of whipped cream into the bottom of a glass or jar. Top with a few scoops of granita. Repeat, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
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4 Comments
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Hi! I'm Sheri!
Welcome to my little corner of the web where you’ll find easy, delicious recipes, the best kitchen hacks and simple tips for turning your home into a clean haven that is free of toxins. So glad you’re here!
Granita di caffe is my favorite part of a trip to Italy. Thank you for posting how to make it.
Yes!!! And it’s so easy! xo
I love coffee granita! I haven’t had it in Rome, though! This looks so good!
As a coffee lover you will love this recipe!