Name: Espresso Granita with Vodka, Licor 43, and Chocolate Shavings Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups cold brew coffee concentrate (or espresso); 3 oz vodka; 2 ½ oz Licor 43; Condensed milk (to taste, for topping); Dark chocolate (for shaving and topping)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Espresso granita is a refreshing frozen coffee treat that blends the rich flavors of cold brew, vodka, and Licor 43. Topped with creamy condensed milk and dark chocolate shavings, it offers a delightful balance of bitterness and sweetness perfect for warm days or as an elegant dessert.

Ingredients

2 ½ cups cold brew coffee concentrate (or espresso)
3 oz vodka

2 ½ oz Licor 43
Dark chocolate (for shaving and topping)

Condensed milk (to taste, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: In a freezer-safe dish, combine the cold brew coffee concentrate, vodka, and Licor 43. Mix gently to incorporate.

Step 2: Place the dish in the freezer and freeze for 2 ½ hours. Remove and use a fork to shred the frozen mixture, breaking up any large ice crystals.
Step 3: Return the dish to the freezer for another 1 to 2 hours. Shred the granita again with a fork to achieve a light, flaky texture.
Step 4: Serve the granita topped generously with condensed milk and dark chocolate shavings.

Tips & Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, omit the vodka and Licor 43 and add a touch of vanilla extract to maintain depth of flavor.
Use freshly brewed espresso instead of cold brew for a stronger coffee taste.
Adjust the amount of condensed milk to match your preferred sweetness.

Try topping with crushed nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added texture and flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover granita in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 days. Before serving, let it soften slightly at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes then fluff with a fork to restore its icy texture. Repeated thawing and refreezing may affect the texture.

How to Serve

A patterned bowl holds a layered dessert starting with a dark brown base that looks moist and rich. Above this is a light, fluffy creamy layer with a smooth texture, covering most of the dessert. The top is generously sprinkled with dark chocolate curls that add texture and a contrast in color. A spoon rests inside the bowl, angled towards the viewer. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some green leaves and a wooden board with a dark square piece in the blurred background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make espresso granita without alcohol?

Yes, you can easily skip the vodka and Licor 43 and substitute with vanilla extract or a little coffee liqueur flavor syrup to keep a rich taste without alcohol.

How long does it take to freeze and prepare the granita?

The freezing process takes about 4 to 4 ½ hours in total, including shredding the ice twice to get the perfect fluffy texture.