Print

Creamy Authentic Milanese Ballerina Coffee Recipe with Cocoa Dusting

creamy authentic Milanese ballerina coffee - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and elegant espresso drink featuring silky ballerina-style milk foam topped with a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder, inspired by Milanese café tradition.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 shot freshly brewed espresso (about 30 ml or 1 oz)
  • 150 ml whole milk (about 2/3 cup), chilled
  • 30 ml heavy cream (2 tablespoons), cold
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

  1. Brew your espresso: Pull a fresh shot of espresso (30 ml or 1 oz). Aim for a rich, bold flavor without bitterness. Set aside.
  2. Combine and warm milk and cream: In a small saucepan, gently warm 150 ml whole milk and 30 ml heavy cream over low heat until just below simmering (about 60°C or 140°F). Avoid boiling.
  3. Froth the milk mixture: Transfer the warm milk and cream to your frother or use a handheld whisk. Froth vigorously until you get a light, silky foam that’s thicker than usual, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Sweeten the espresso: Stir 1 teaspoon sugar into the hot espresso while it’s still warm to dissolve fully. Adjust sweetness to taste.
  5. Assemble the coffee: Pour the sweetened espresso into your cup. Slowly spoon the frothy milk on top, letting the creamy foam rest gently over the espresso layer.
  6. Dust with cocoa: Using a fine sieve, sprinkle unsweetened cocoa powder evenly over the foam.
  7. Final touch: Optionally swirl the cocoa dust lightly with a toothpick or leave as is for a classic finish.

Notes

Warm milk gently to avoid breaking down proteins and ruining foam texture. Use cold milk and cream for richer foam. Do not over-froth; stop when foam is smooth and shiny with small bubbles. Use fresh espresso for best flavor. Dust cocoa powder last using a fine sieve for even coverage. For dairy-free option, substitute whole milk and cream with barista-style oat milk and coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: Milanese ballerina coffee, creamy espresso, cocoa dusting, Italian coffee recipe, milk foam coffee, espresso drink

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/creamy-authentic-milanese-ballerina-coffee-recipe-with-cocoa-dusting-easy-step-by-step-guide/