Coffee and cream granita

Coffee and cream granita is a refreshing dessert that blends bold espresso with rich heavy cream, balanced by sweetness from sugar and a hint of vanilla. It's easy to make and perfect for warm days, offering a delightful icy texture.

13 Dec 2025
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 315 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp espresso coffee
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream

Coffee and Cream Granita is an exquisite dessert that combines the bold flavor of espresso with the rich, smooth essence of heavy cream. It's an ideal treat for coffee lovers, especially on a warm day, offering a refreshing and indulgent experience. The preparation process is simple, requiring only a few ingredients to create a granita with a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Espresso:
- Brew a fresh shot or two of espresso to yield about 2 tablespoons (30g).

2. Dissolve the Sugar:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the espresso with the 1/2 cup of sugar (100g). Stir the mixture well until the sugar dissolves completely. This may take a few minutes.

3. Add the Vanilla:
- Once the sugar is thoroughly dissolved, add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (2g) to the mixture. Stir until well combined.

4. Incorporate the Cream:
- Pour in the 1 cup of heavy whipping cream (230g) into the espresso mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients until smooth and uniform.

5. Freeze the Mixture:
- Transfer the mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe dish. A metal baking dish works well for faster freezing.
- Place the dish in the freezer.

6. Scrape to Form Granita:
- Every 30 minutes, remove the dish from the freezer and use a fork to scrape and stir the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals that form. Repeat this process for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the entire mixture has transformed into a granular, icy texture.

7. Serve:
- Once your granita has achieved the desired texture, scoop it into serving glasses or bowls.
- Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder if desired.

8. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing combination of coffee and cream granita!

With just four simple ingredients, Coffee and Cream Granita delivers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Whether you serve it as a dessert or a mid-day treat, this granita offers a refreshing and refined way to enjoy coffee. Follow the tips to perfect your granita and relish in its creamy, icy goodness.

Coffee and cream granita FAQ:

How long does it take to freeze the granita?

The granita typically takes about 3 to 4 hours to freeze completely, during which time you'll need to scrape and stir the mixture every 30 minutes.

What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?

You can substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option, or use half-and-half for a lighter version, though this will alter the richness.

How do I know when the granita is ready?

The granita is ready when it has a fluffy, granular texture, similar to shaved ice, and is easy to scoop with a fork.

Can I store leftover granita?

Yes, you can store homemade granita in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. Re-scrape with a fork before serving for the best texture.

What's the best way to sweeten the granita?

The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of sugar, but you can adjust the sweetness by using less or opting for a different sweetener like agave syrup or a sugar substitute, adjusting to taste.

Cooking Tips:

- For best results, use freshly brewed espresso for a more robust coffee flavor.

- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference for sweetness.

- Ensure that the heavy cream is well-chilled before whipping to achieve optimal texture.

- Freeze the granita mixture in a shallow dish for faster freezing and easier scraping.

- Stir and scrape the mixture every 30 minutes while freezing to create a fine, granular texture.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 300kcal
Protein 1.64g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 0.00g
Sugar 27g
Fat 20g

Coffee and cream granita