Sep 19, 2024

Cafe Al Bicerin Recipe - Hot Chocolate with Espresso

Ingredients:

1 shot of espresso (about 1 oz)
1/2 cup (4 oz) hot chocolate (preferably thick, Italian-style)
1/4 cup (2 oz) lightly whipped cream

Optional Garnishes:

Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings (for dusting)
Whipped cream (extra for topping)
Biscotti or cookies (served on the side)

Equipment:

Espresso machine, AeroPress, or moka pot (to brew espresso)
Small saucepan (to make hot chocolate)
Clear glass (traditionally served in a small, clear glass to show the layers)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Make the Hot Chocolate:

In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of milk or water (depending on your preference) over medium heat.
Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of high-quality chocolate, cocoa powder, or dark chocolate pieces. Traditional Bicerin uses a thick, rich hot chocolate, so keep stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is thick and creamy.
Once the chocolate is smooth and hot, set it aside and keep it warm.

2. Brew the Espresso:

Brew 1 shot of espresso using an espresso machine, AeroPress, or moka pot. You can brew a double shot if you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, but the classic Bicerin typically has 1 shot.

3. Lightly Whip the Cream:

In a small bowl, lightly whip 1/4 cup of cold heavy cream. You want soft peaks—just enough to create a smooth, pourable consistency that can float on top of the drink without mixing in. Don’t overwhip; the cream should be pourable rather than stiff.

4. Assemble the Bicerin:

In a small, clear glass, pour the hot chocolate first to form the base layer.
Gently pour the shot of espresso over the hot chocolate, taking care not to mix the layers. Use the back of a spoon to pour the espresso slowly, allowing it to settle gently on top of the chocolate layer.
Finally, carefully spoon or pour the lightly whipped cream over the espresso. The cream should sit on top without mixing in, creating the signature layered appearance of the Bicerin.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve immediately, with or without garnishes. For extra flair, you can dust the top with cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Bicerin is traditionally served without stirring, so you can enjoy the distinct layers of chocolate, coffee, and cream with each sip.

History of the Bicerin:

The Bicerin is a traditional hot drink from Turin, Italy, with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The name "Bicerin" means "small glass" in Piedmontese, referring to the small, clear glass in which the drink is served, allowing the drinker to see the beautiful layers of coffee, chocolate, and cream.

The origins of the Bicerin can be traced to Caffè Al Bicerin, a historic café in Turin, where this decadent drink was first popularized. The café opened in 1763 and still serves the drink today. The Bicerin was influenced by an earlier drink called the "Bavareisa," which also combined coffee, chocolate, and cream, but was served in separate containers, allowing the drinker to mix them to their liking. The Bicerin evolved into its own unique drink with layered components served together in a single glass.

Significance in Italian Culture:

Bicerin became especially popular in Turin during the 19th century and is associated with the city’s café culture. Turin, a city in northern Italy, is known for its long tradition of chocolate-making and elegant coffeehouses. The Bicerin embodies the city’s rich history and culinary expertise in both coffee and chocolate.

The drink was traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast or mid-morning treat by the people of Turin, particularly during the colder months when a warm, indulgent drink was the perfect way to start the day. Its combination of rich, thick hot chocolate and strong espresso makes it both a comforting and energizing beverage.

The Role of Caffè Al Bicerin:

The original Caffè Al Bicerin remains a legendary establishment in Turin and continues to serve this iconic drink to locals and tourists alike. It was even a favorite of historical figures, including Alexandre Dumas and Friedrich Nietzsche. The café’s recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but the basic components of espresso, chocolate, and cream have been preserved in modern versions of the drink.

Bicerin vs. Other Coffee Drinks:

Bicerin vs. Mocha: While a mocha also combines chocolate and coffee, the Bicerin is traditionally served in distinct layers, with rich hot chocolate at the base and a layer of espresso in the middle, topped with cream. A mocha typically has the chocolate and espresso mixed together with steamed milk.
Bicerin vs. Hot Chocolate: Bicerin includes espresso, whereas traditional hot chocolate is simply chocolate and milk. The addition of coffee makes Bicerin a more complex and energizing drink.
Bicerin vs. Latte Macchiato: While both drinks involve layering espresso, the Bicerin uses chocolate and cream, whereas a latte macchiato layers steamed milk and foam with espresso.