Lavazza Super Crema Espresso - Whole Bean Coffee Review

Essential Accessories:

• Quality burr grinder for consistent grounds
• Airtight storage container for freshness
• Espresso scale for precise dosing
• Milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes

You know that moment when you first crack open a fresh bag of coffee beans and that wonderful aroma hits you? That’s exactly what you get with Lavazza Super Crema. But beyond the initial excitement, this blend offers something special for espresso lovers.

Key Features:

• Blend: 80% Arabica, 20% Robusta
• Origin: Mix of Indonesian, Brazilian, and Central American beans
• Roast: Medium
• Flavor Profile: Hazelnut and brown sugar notes
• Package: 2.2 lb vacuum-sealed bag

The beans have a consistent, even roast - something I particularly appreciate as it helps achieve reliable shots. They’re not overly oily, which means less mess in your grinder and better longevity for your equipment.

Dimensions & Weight:

• Bag Size: 9” x 6” x 3” (23 x 15 x 7.5 cm)
• Weight: 2.2 lb (1 kg)

Materials & Packaging: The vacuum-sealed bag includes a one-way valve that lets CO2 escape while keeping oxygen out. It’s sturdy enough to prevent accidental tears, though I still recommend transferring to an airtight container once opened.

Available Options: While this review focuses on the whole bean 2.2 lb bag, Lavazza also offers:

• Pre-ground version
• Smaller 1.1 lb bags
• Bulk packaging for cafés

What really sets Super Crema apart is its consistency. Whether you’re pulling your first or last shot from the bag, the flavor profile stays remarkably stable - something that’s crucial for developing your barista skills.

Let me walk you through the process of getting the best results from these beans. After using them daily for months, I’ve found there’s a sweet spot in the preparation that really makes them shine.

The Ideal Process:

1. Grinding:

• Aim for espresso-fine consistency (like table salt)
• 18g per double shot is the sweet spot
• Fresh grinding is crucial - do it just before brewing

2. Temperature:

• 195-205°F (90-96°C) water temperature
• Let your machine warm up properly (15-20 minutes)

3. Pressure & Time:

• Standard 9 bars of pressure
• 25-30 seconds extraction time
• Watch for honey-like flow

4. Expected Yield:

• Double shot: ~36g espresso from 18g grounds
• Crema should be golden-brown and persistent

One bag typically yields about 50-60 double shots, depending on your dose. I’ve found these beans particularly forgiving with slight variations in technique, which makes them great for learning or daily use.

Other Brewing Methods: While designed for espresso, they work surprisingly well in:

• Moka pot (medium-fine grind)
• French press (coarse grind, 4-minute steep)
• Pour-over (medium grind)

The versatility of these beans is impressive, though they truly excel in an espresso machine where that signature crema can fully develop.

After months of daily use, I’ve developed a pretty clear picture of where these beans excel and where they could use improvement. Here’s the honest breakdown:

Strengths:

Rich, Consistent Crema: The 80/20 Arabica-Robusta blend creates that picture-perfect golden crema that holds up beautifully. Great for latte art too.

Forgiving Nature: Even when your technique isn’t perfect, you’ll still get a decent shot. This saved me many mornings when I was half awake.

Versatile Flavor: Works equally well as straight espresso or in milk drinks. The hazelnut notes really shine through in lattes.

Reliable Quality: Every bag I’ve opened has been consistently good - no unexpected surprises.

Reasonable Shelf Life: Stays fresh for about 3-4 weeks after opening when stored properly.

Limitations:

Medium Roast Only: If you’re after that deep, dark roast intensity, you might find these lacking.

Equipment Dependent: You’ll need a proper grinder to get the best results. My old blade grinder just couldn’t do these beans justice.

Robusta Content: While great for crema, the 20% Robusta isn’t for everyone. Some prefer pure Arabica.

Storage Needs: The bag’s not resealable, so you’ll need a separate container for storage.

From what users are saying online (and my own experience), the pros definitely outweigh the cons for most people. The beans deliver exactly what they promise - a reliable, tasty espresso with impressive crema.

As someone who’s lugged these beans on several trips, I can share some practical insights about their travel-friendliness.

Travel Pros:

• Whole beans travel better than ground coffee
• Sturdy packaging resists crushing
• Beans stay fresh longer than pre-ground

Travel Cons:

• 2.2 lb bag is bulky for short trips
• Requires bringing a grinder
• Not ideal for ultralight travel

Smart Travel Tips: Pre-portion beans into small, airtight containers for shorter trips. I use small mason jars - they’re durable and keep the beans fresh. For weekend getaways, 100-150g is usually plenty.

These beans pair well with portable espresso makers like the Wacaco Nanopresso or Flair - just make sure you’ve got a good travel grinder along. They’re particularly forgiving of slight grind inconsistencies, which is helpful when you’re brewing away from home.

From my experience, these beans are perfect for several types of coffee lovers:

Home Baristas: If you’re just starting your espresso journey or looking to perfect your technique, these beans are wonderfully forgiving while still producing professional results.

Milk Drink Lovers: The flavor cuts through milk beautifully, making it ideal for cappuccino and latte fans. Those hazelnut notes really sing in milk-based drinks.

Consistency Seekers: If you want reliable, repeatable results without the fuss of single-origin beans that can be tricky to dial in, this blend delivers.

Small Café Owners: The consistency and value make it a solid choice for small coffee shops starting out.

Regular Coffee Drinkers: If you make several cups daily, the 2.2 lb bag size and reliable quality make economic sense.

These beans particularly shine for those who appreciate traditional Italian espresso but don’t want something too intensely dark or overpowering.

Let’s be honest - these beans aren’t for everyone. Here’s who might want to look elsewhere:

Dark Roast Devotees: If you love super dark, oily beans, you’ll find Super Crema too mild. Consider Lavazza’s darker roasts instead.

Pure Arabica Purists: The 20% Robusta content, while great for crema, might not suit those who strictly prefer 100% Arabica. Try Illy’s classic blend instead.

Occasional Drinkers: The 2.2 lb bag might be too much if you only brew occasionally. Look for smaller packages to maintain freshness.

Light Roast Fans: Those who prefer bright, acidic coffees should explore single-origin light roasts from specialty roasters.

Budget Buyers: While reasonably priced for the quality, there are cheaper options if budget is your main concern.

Remember, coffee preference is personal - there’s no shame in wanting something different from what Super Crema offers.

After using these beans regularly for months, here’s what stands out about their long-term performance:

Consistency Champion: Every bag delivers the same reliable taste profile - no surprises or disappointments. This consistency makes it easy to dial in your preferred settings and stick with them.

Grinder Friendly: The medium roast and moderate oil content mean less residue buildup in your grinder compared to darker roasts. My grinder stays cleaner longer with these beans.

Flavor Evolution: The taste stays remarkably stable for about 3-4 weeks after opening, though the peak flavor is definitely in the first two weeks. The hazelnut notes become more subtle over time, but never disappear completely.

Equipment Impact: These beans are gentler on equipment than oily dark roasts, which means less frequent cleaning and maintenance of your espresso machine.

One interesting observation: the beans actually seem more forgiving in slightly older espresso machines, where their balanced profile helps compensate for minor pressure inconsistencies.

Keep your Super Crema beans in top form with these care tips I’ve refined over months of use:

Storage Essentials:

• Transfer to an airtight container immediately after opening
• Keep away from light and heat
• Store at room temperature (avoid refrigeration)
• Use within 4 weeks of opening

Grinder Care:

• Clean your grinder weekly if using daily
• Adjust grind size gradually to avoid jamming
• Run a few beans through after cleaning before making espresso

Common Issues:

• Stale Taste: Usually means old beans or poor storage
• Weak Crema: Check grind freshness and size
• Inconsistent Shots: Often from uneven grinding or tamping

Best Practices:

• Measure doses precisely (18g is ideal for double shots)
• Clean equipment regularly
• Only grind what you’ll use immediately

Remember: great espresso comes from well-maintained beans and equipment. These little care steps make a big difference in your cup quality.

Let’s look at how Super Crema measures up environmentally:

Packaging Reality: The current bag isn’t fully recyclable, but Lavazza’s working on it. They’ve committed to 100% recyclable packaging by 2025.

Coffee Sourcing: While not organic certified, Lavazza participates in sustainability programs in their sourcing regions. They’re working with farmers on environmentally friendly practices.

Carbon Footprint: The whole bean format actually has a lower carbon footprint than pre-ground or pods. You’re cutting out extra processing and packaging steps.

Waste Reduction Tips:

• Compost used grounds
• Use old grounds in your garden
• Repurpose the bag for plant potting
• Consider buying larger bags to reduce packaging waste

The company’s working on their environmental game, but there’s room for improvement. Still, choosing whole beans over pods or pre-ground coffee is already a step in the right direction.

Having tried countless espresso beans, Super Crema hits a sweet spot in value. Here’s why:

Value Highlights:

• Consistent quality saves money on wasted shots
• Large bag size offers better value than smaller packages
• Versatility means one bean for multiple drink types

Comparison Points:

• More affordable than specialty single-origin espresso beans
• Higher quality than generic supermarket brands
• Similar price point to other premium Italian roasters

The beans really shine when you consider the cost per shot - especially compared to café prices. You’re getting café-quality espresso at a fraction of the cost.

What impressed me most? The consistency. You’re not gambling with each bag - it delivers reliable results every time, which means less waste and better value in the long run.

After countless shots with these beans, I’ve discovered some helpful tricks:

Perfect Your Pull:

• Start with 18g of beans for a double shot
• Aim for a 25-30 second extraction
• Watch for honey-like flow pattern

Temperature Hack: Time your shot right after the boiler light goes off for optimal temperature - I’ve found this sweet spot delivers the best crema.

Milk Pairing Secret: Steam milk to 150°F (65°C) to best complement the hazelnut notes. Any hotter and you’ll lose some of those subtle flavors.

Storage Wisdom: Divide the bag into smaller portions right after opening. I use mason jars and keep just a week’s worth out at a time.

Grinder Tip: Clean your grinder every 2-3 weeks with these beans - they’re less oily than dark roasts, but regular maintenance still makes a difference.

One surprising discovery: these beans make fantastic cold brew. Use a coarse grind and 16-hour steep time for a smooth, naturally sweet result.

Q: How long do these beans stay fresh after opening? A: In an airtight container, they maintain peak flavor for about 3-4 weeks. I’ve found the first two weeks offer the best crema.

Q: Can I use these beans in a super-automatic machine? A: Yes, they work great in super-automatics. Their medium roast and moderate oil content won’t clog the grinder.

Q: Do these beans work well for cold brew? A: Surprisingly well! Use a coarse grind and 16-hour steep time. The result is smooth with subtle chocolate notes.

Q: What’s the best grind size for espresso with these beans? A: Start with fine (like table salt) and adjust slightly based on your machine. I usually end up just a touch finer than table salt.

Q: Are these beans too dark/light for milk drinks? A: They’re perfectly balanced for milk drinks. The flavor cuts through without overwhelming.

Q: Why does the crema sometimes look different? A: Usually comes down to bean freshness and grind consistency. Fresh beans and even grinds give the best crema.

Q: How many shots can I get from one bag? A: Using 18g doses, you’ll get about 55-60 double shots from a 2.2 lb bag.

Super Crema strikes that perfect balance between quality and consistency that’s hard to find in today’s coffee market.

The medium roast profile brings out lovely hazelnut notes while maintaining enough body to satisfy most espresso lovers. While it might not wow dark roast fanatics, it delivers exactly what it promises - reliable, delicious shots with impressive crema.

These beans really shine in their forgiveness. Whether you’re just starting your espresso journey or running a small café, they’ll help you pull great shots without the fussiness of some specialty beans.

The major drawbacks? You’ll need decent equipment to get the best results, and dark roast lovers might find them lacking intensity. But for most espresso enthusiasts, these beans hit the sweet spot of quality, consistency, and value.

Bottom line: If you’re after authentic Italian espresso with reliable results, Super Crema deserves a spot in your coffee rotation.