Name: Starbucks Espresso Con Panna Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: Espresso: Ideally, you’ll want to use high-quality espresso beans for a rich, authentic flavor. Starbucks uses its own espresso roast, but you can select any high-quality beans you prefer. Depending on your preference, you’ll need enough to brew one or two shots.; Heavy Cream: For the whipped cream, opt for heavy cream to achieve that perfectly fluffy and creamy consistency. Approximately ¼ cup should suffice.; Sugar (Optional): If you prefer slightly sweetened whipped cream, add 1 teaspoon of sugar while whipping the cream.

Starbucks Espresso Con Panna Copycat Recipe

By Sandra · 20 Aug 2024 · Updated 29 Sep 2026

Nothing quite hits the spot like a Starbucks Espresso Con Panna when relinquishing that little extra touch of decadence. For those who marvel at the thought of transforming our humble home into a personal café, the allure of recreating this sophisticated yet astonishingly simple beverage is truly irresistible.

1 serving·5 min

Recipe reviewed 29 Sep 2026. How we test recipes.

How to make it

1. Prepare the Espresso

Begin by grinding your espresso beans to a fine consistency. If you're using a traditional espresso machine, you'll need about 7-9 grams of ground coffee for a single shot. Double the amount for a double shot.
Tamp the grounds firmly into your espresso portafilter. This step is crucial for achieving the ideal pressure and extraction.
Brew your espresso directly into a pre-warmed cup. A single shot typically takes about 25-30 seconds of brewing time. If you prefer a more substantial base, opt for a double shot.

2. Whip the Cream

Pour the heavy cream (and sugar, if using) into a chilled bowl. Whip the cream using a whisk or an electric mixer until it forms soft peaks. Be cautious not to overwhip; the cream should still be soft enough to dollop on top of the espresso.

3. Assemble Your Espresso Con Panna

Gently spoon or pipe the whipped cream on top of the brewed espresso in the cup. The cream should be generous but not overwhelming, allowing both the espresso and cream to share the spotlight.

Starbucks Espresso Con Panna Copycat Recipe

Starbucks Espresso Con Panna is a simple yet delicious espresso-based drink. The name "Con Panna" translates from Italian to "with cream." It consists of a shot of espresso topped with a dollop of whipped cream. The whipped cream adds a rich, creamy texture and a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the bold, robust flavor of the espresso.

Tips for the Perfect Espresso Con Panna:

Espresso Quality: This drink's foundation is a robust, well-crafted espresso. Investing in a good espresso machine and high-quality beans will make a significant difference.
Fresh Cream: Use fresh, cold heavy cream for whipping. Cold cream whips better, yielding a lighter, more stable whipped cream.
Customization: Feel free to adjust the amount of whipped cream to suit your taste. Some prefer a dollop, while others enjoy a more generous topping.
Serving: Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the contrast of temperatures and textures between the hot espresso and the cold whipped cream.

What to serve with

Espresso con panna suits small, rich treats: biscotti, shortbread, chocolate truffles or a slice of tiramisu. For more coffee ideas, see our Espresso Martini masterclass.

Ingredients Substitutes

Espresso Con Panna Starbucks Copycat Recipe

Creating a Starbucks Espresso Con Panna at home can be a delicious endeavor. Still, sometimes you might miss some ingredients or need alternatives due to dietary preferences or restrictions.

Espresso

Strong Brewed Coffee: If you do not have an espresso machine, you can substitute the espresso shots with very strongly brewed coffee. Use a dark roast coffee and make it double-strength to mimic the robust flavor of espresso.
Instant Espresso Powder: Another alternative is to use instant espresso powder. It's quick and convenient, and while the taste might not be as nuanced as freshly brewed espresso, it can still provide a satisfactory outcome.

Whipped Cream

Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free alternative, coconut whipped cream is a fantastic option. Chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, scoop out the solidified coconut cream, and whip it with a sweetener of your choice until light and fluffy.
Cashew Cream: Another plant-based alternative is cashew cream, which is made by blending soaked cashews with water until smooth. Add a touch of vanilla extract and a sweetener, then lightly whip it for a creamy topping.
Store-bought Vegan Whipped Creams: Many ready-made vegan whipped cream options, made from soy, almond, or coconut, are also available, and they can easily replace dairy whipped cream.

Sweetener (Optional)

Maple Syrup or Honey: If you prefer your Espresso Con Panna slightly sweetened, maple syrup or honey are great natural sweeteners that can add a subtle flavor depth. These are perfect for stirring into the espresso before adding the whipped cream.
Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener: For a low-calorie option, stevia or monk fruit sweeteners can provide sweetness without the sugar content. These sweeteners are much sweeter than sugar, so use sparingly.

Final Thoughts

Creating your own Starbucks Espresso Con Panna is an enjoyable experience that not only satiates your coffee cravings but also adds a touch of personal flair to your coffee routine. Remember, the beauty of home brewing is in the ability to tailor each cup to your liking.

Starbucks Espresso Con Panna Copycat Recipe

Ingredients