Make Popular Paduan Coffee at Home: The Irresistible Recipe for Italian Mint Coffee.
If you’ve ever visited the Venetian city of Padua, chances are you’ve tried the famous Pedrocchi coffee, or “Pedrocchino” as the locals call it. This refreshing mint-infused coffee is a must-try when in the area.
This simple yet flavorful recipe will transport you straight to the cafes of Padua, where the traditional Mint Coffee (or Caffè Padovano alla Menta) has been served for generations. With just four ingredients — coffee, cream, mint syrup, and cocoa powder — this beverage may seem like an unlikely combination. But I can assure you, it’s one of the most delightful things I’ve ever tasted. And I’m confident you’ll feel the same way too.
Discover the Iconic Italian Mint Coffee: The Padovano
The coffee with mint cream tradition dates back to the early 1990s, when creative baristas at the famous Caffè Pedrocchi invented this refreshing concoction. Since then, it has become a beloved staple in Padua’s cafes and homes alike. Locals often enjoy this treat mid-morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up, while tourists savor it any time of day.
The Irresistible Ingredients of the Perfect Italian Coffee and Mint
The original recipe is secret and is passed down from bartender to bartender. But everyone knows that what makes this coffee and mint recipe truly special is its carefully selected ingredients.
The Secret Blend
The magic of Italian mint coffee lies in its carefully selected ingredients. At the heart of this delightful beverage is a strong espresso blend, typically 90% Arabica and 10% Robusta. This coffee and mint recipe combines beans from South America and Africa, creating a robust foundation for the drink.
The Minty Magic
What sets this Italian mint coffee apart is the mint syrup. Baristas use a specially selected variety of mint that’s exceptionally sweet and fragrant. This isn’t your average mint flavor — it’s the result of careful cultivation and selection, giving the coffee its signature taste.
The Creamy Crown
Fresh cream from the nearby Dolomite mountains adds a luxurious touch to this coffee with mint cream. When whipped with cold milk and mint syrup, it creates a light, airy foam that sits atop the espresso like a cloud. This creamy layer is what gives the drink its distinctive look and mouthfeel.
The Finishing Touch
A light dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder completes the drink, adding a subtle bitterness that balances the sweet mint and rich cream. It’s this combination of flavors and textures that makes Italian mint coffee truly irresistible.
To fully appreciate the Padovano, remember not to stir or sweeten it. Simply sip and enjoy the layers of flavors as they meld together in your mouth.
How to Craft the Authentic Padovano Mint Coffee at Home
As I mentioned, the original recipe is closely guarded, but many locals in Padua prepare this coffee at home using their family’s recipe. The recipe I’ll share with you today was taught to me by a friend who’s from Padua.
Gather Your Ingredients
To create 2 perfect Padovano Coffee, you’ll need:
- 2 espresso coffee
- 20 g of fresh whole milk
- 50 g of fresh liquid cream or whipping cream
- 20 g of mint syrup, like the super popular Mint Syrup “Fabbri”
- Unsweetened cocoa powder to taste
Prepare the Mint Cream
In a chilled bowl, combine cold fresh cream and milk. Using an electric whisk, begin whipping the mixture. As it thickens, gradually add the mint syrup, continuing to whip until you achieve a light, airy foam. This mint-infused cream is the hallmark of the coffee with mint cream recipe.
Assemble Your Masterpiece
Brew a shot of robust espresso in a glass cup slightly larger than standard. Gently spoon two dollops of the mint cream onto the coffee, creating a luxurious layer. Finally, dust the top with a sprinkle of bitter cocoa powder. Remember, tradition dictates that you serve this coffee without a spoon – it’s meant to be savored as is, allowing the flavors to meld naturally.
Presentation is Key
When serving your Italian mint coffee, presentation matters. Use clear glass cups to showcase the beautiful layers of espresso, mint cream, and cocoa. The visual appeal will heighten the anticipation of that first sip. Remember, we eat (and drink) with our eyes first!
By following these steps, you’ll craft an authentic Padovano mint coffee that rivals any you’d find in the charming cafes of Padua.
Serving and Enjoying the Decadent Mint-Infused Coffee
Perfect Pairings
Enhance your coffee and mint recipe experience by serving it alongside complementary treats. A square of dark chocolate or a crisp biscuit makes an excellent accompaniment, balancing the sweetness of the mint. For a truly indulgent moment, pair it with a slice of tiramisu for a double dose of coffee bliss.
The Social Aspect of Italian Mint Coffee
Share this delightful beverage with friends and family. The unique flavor combination is sure to spark conversation and create memorable moments. This Italian mint coffee is perfect for a mid-morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up, bringing a taste of Italian elegance to your home.
Do you like this delicious recipe? Then try these other recipes with coffee too!
Espresso Martini Cocktail
Tiramisu Tronchetto Recipe, Best Italian Christmas Yule Log Cake (VIDEO)
Pandoro Tiramisu: An Effortless Christmas Treat (VIDEO)
Italian Mint Coffee: Variations and Special Diets
While the original Paduan mint coffee calls for specific ingredients, nothing stops you from making it for your family with a few tweaks. I’m sure it will still taste delicious!
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions:
- If you can’t make an espresso, you can use coffee from a stovetop moka pot
- If you want to avoid caffeine, you can use decaf coffee
For Those with Dietary Restrictions:
- If you’re vegan, you can try making it with a plant-based whipping cream
- If you’re on a ketogenic diet, just watch the sugar content in the mint syrup (remember not to exceed 20g of carbs per day!), or opt for a sugar-free mint syrup and add a few drops of sweetener to the cream. The very famous Italian brand Fabbri, produces a delicious sugar-free mint syrup: Mint Syrup 0% Sugar.
Caffè Padovano: Italian Mint Coffee
Ingredients
- 2 espresso coffee
- 20 g fresh whole milk
- 50 g fresh liquid cream or whipping cream
- 20 g mint syrup
- Unsweetened cocoa powder to taste
Instructions
- Prepare 2 espresso coffee and pour them in 2 glass cups slightly larger than standard.
- In a chilled bowl, combine cold whipping cream and milk. Using an electric whisk, begin whipping the mixture.
- As it thickens, gradually add the mint syrup, continuing to whip until you achieve a light, airy foam.
- Gently spoon 2–3 dollops of the mint cream onto the coffee, creating a luxurious layer.
- Finally, dust the top with a sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Enjoy your Mint Coffee immediately!
