Aldo Coffee Keeps Us Warm Today

The P-G reprints this recipe for a bicerin, the signature coffee drink of Torino, courtesy of Aldo Coffee:

A bicerin is a short strong chocolate and espresso beverage made famous in Torino, Italy, at Caffe Al Bicerin. It's served in a tall glass so the drinker can admire the mouth-watering melange of colors. As athletes, spectators and news crews have swarmed Torino over the past few weeks, bicerin has become the unofficial drink of the 2006 Winter Olympics. Now you can enjoy it, too. Although the cafes in Torino (and some in Pittsburgh) will make this drink with specialized equipment, aficionados can make a good approximation at home with the following recipe:

* 3 ounces heavy cream
* 3 ounces whole milk
* 3 ounces finely chopped or ground dark chocolate
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
* Tiny dash of salt
* 8 ounces hot espresso or very dark, strong hot coffee
* Lightly sweetened whipped cream

For the chocolate: Heat milk and cream slowly over low heat, stirring frequently, until steaming, being careful not to scorch it.

Add the chopped chocolate, vanilla and salt to the steaming milk. Stir constantly over heat until it begins to boil. Remove from heat.

Assemble the drink immediately. In a 6- to 8-ounce glass or cup, layer equal amounts of espresso/coffee (2 ounces) and drinking chocolate (2 ounces).

Top with whipped cream and serve immediately.

Serves 4.