For true espresso enthusiasts, the “crema”—that golden-brown, rich foam sitting atop a freshly pulled shot—is more than just a visual treat. It is a signifier of freshness, proper extraction, and the complex oils trapped within the coffee bean. When navigating the vast landscape of Italian coffee blends on Amazon, two names consistently rise to the top of the bestseller lists: Lavazza Super Crema and Lavazza Qualita Oro.
While both hail from the same legendary roaster in Turin, Italy, they are fundamentally different blends designed for different palates. If your primary goal is achieving that thick, velvety crema that looks like it belongs in a café commercial, picking the wrong bag can lead to disappointment. In this comprehensive 2026 review, we break down the science behind these blends to answer the ultimate question: which one wears the crown for the best crema?
2. Quick Comparison Table
Before diving deep into the specifics, here is a high-level overview of how these two heavyweights stack up against each other.
{% table %}
- Feature
- Lavazza Super Crema
- Lavazza Qualita Oro
- Bean Composition
- 60% Arabica / 40% Robusta
- 100% Arabica
- Roast Level
- Medium-Dark
- Medium
- Flavor Profile
- Hazelnut, brown sugar, dried fruit
- Floral, fruity, honey, malt
- Crema Thickness
- Very High (Thick & Persistent)
- Moderate (Thinner & Delicate)
- Caffeine Content
- Higher (due to Robusta)
- Lower
- Best For
- Espresso shots, Cappuccinos, Lattes
- Americano, Drip Coffee, Moka Pot {% /table %}
3. What Makes Great Crema?
To understand why one blend might outperform the other, we must first understand the physics of crema. Crema is essentially an emulsion formed by air bubbles combining with the soluble oils in ground coffee. It is created when water under high pressure (usually 9 bars) forces carbon dioxide (CO2) out of the beans.
Three main factors influence crema production:
- The Presence of Robusta Beans: Robusta beans contain almost double the caffeine and significantly less lipid (fat) content than Arabica, but they produce far more CO2 and structure. This creates a thicker, more stable foam.
- Freshness: Freshly roasted beans contain more CO2. As beans age, they degas, leading to thin or non-existent crema.
- Processing Method: “Natural” or dry-processed beans often retain more oils and body compared to washed beans, aiding in crema formation.
4. Lavazza Super Crema: Deep Dive
Bean Composition & Origin
As the name implies, Lavazza Super Crema is engineered specifically for texture. It is a blend of washed Brazilian Arabica beans, Indian Arabica, and—crucially—high-quality Robusta beans from Indonesia and Vietnam. The ratio stands roughly at 60% Arabica and 40% Robusta.
Roast Profile
Super Crema features a medium-dark roast. It is dark enough to lower the acidity but not so oily that it clogs super-automatic espresso machines. This balance is often referred to as an “espresso roast.”
Crema Characteristics
This blend lives up to its name. The inclusion of 40% Robusta acts as a structural scaffold for the foam. When extracted properly, Super Crema produces a thick, hazelnut-colored layer that can withstand the “sugar test” (where a sprinkle of sugar rests on the foam for a few seconds before sinking). It is resilient and persistent.
Flavor Profile
Expect notes of roasted hazelnut and brown sugar. It has a very low acidity and a heavy body. It is designed to punch through milk, making it a favorite for lattes and cappuccinos.
Insight: Check the current price of Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend on Amazon to see if it fits your budget for daily brewing.
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5. Lavazza Qualita Oro: Deep Dive
Bean Composition & Origin
Lavazza Qualita Oro (“Gold Quality”) is a historically significant blend for the company, first introduced in 1956. It is composed of 100% Arabica beans, primarily sourced from Central America and some African varieties.
Roast Profile
This is a classic Medium roast, lighter than the Super Crema. The beans are generally dry (non-oily) and lighter brown in color. This roast preserves the delicate floral and fruity notes inherent to high-quality Arabica.
Crema Characteristics
Because it lacks Robusta and is a 100% Arabica blend, Qualita Oro produces a crema that is thinner, silkier, and lighter in color (often a golden-honey hue rather than deep brown). It dissipates faster than the Super Crema. While beautiful, it is less about “foam” and more about “sheen.”
Flavor Profile
Qualita Oro is sweet, aromatic, and complex. You will find notes of flowers, citrus, and malt. It has a higher acidity (brightness) than Super Crema, which some espresso traditionalists love, but others find too sharp for milk drinks.
Insight: View the Lavazza Qualita Oro Whole Bean Coffee listing on Amazon for the latest availability and user reviews.
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6. Head-to-Head Comparison
Crema Thickness & Persistence
Winner: Lavazza Super Crema.
There is no contest here. The Super Crema produces a dense, tiger-striped foam that lasts for minutes. Qualita Oro produces a thin layer that looks elegant but vanishes quickly.
Crema Color & Appearance
Winner: Tie (Subjective).
Super Crema yields a dark hazelnut/reddish-brown hue, typical of a classic Italian bar shot. Qualita Oro yields a lighter, golden-yellow hue. If you want the classic “Guinness-like” pour, Super Crema is the choice.
Flavor Comparison
Super Crema: Earthy, nutty, creamy, low acid. Better for those who dislike sour notes.
Qualita Oro: Sweet, floral, higher acid. Better for those who enjoy complexity and “third-wave” style nuances.
Versatility
Winner: Lavazza Qualita Oro.
While Super Crema is specialized for espresso, Qualita Oro is surprisingly good as a drip coffee, pour-over, or Moka Pot brew because of its 100% Arabica profile. Robusta blends like Super Crema can taste rubbery or harsh if brewed via drip methods.
7. Which One Should You Choose?
For Espresso Lovers
If you drink straight espresso shots and prioritize texture, body, and a traditional Italian kick, Lavazza Super Crema is your best bet. It mimics the experience of standing at a coffee bar in Rome.
For Milk-Based Drinks
Lavazza Super Crema is superior for cappuccinos and lattes. The strong body and Robusta punch ensure the coffee flavor isn’t lost in the milk, and the thick crema helps create better latte art.
For Versatility & Black Coffee
If you sometimes make espresso but also enjoy a regular cup of black coffee or an Americano, Lavazza Qualita Oro is the better choice. It is smoother and sweeter without the harshness that can sometimes accompany Robusta blends.
For Budget-Conscious Buyers
Generally, Lavazza Super Crema is sold in 2.2lb (1kg) bags that offer excellent value per ounce, making it a staple for heavy coffee drinkers. Qualita Oro is often sold in smaller 8.8oz or 1kg bags at a slightly higher price point per ounce due to the 100% Arabica content.
8. Brewing Tips for Maximum Crema
Regardless of which bean you choose, follow these tips to maximize your crema production:
- Use Fresh Beans: Check the “Manufacturing Date” on the bag. Try to consume beans within 3-6 months of roasting.
- Grind Fine: Crema requires pressure. If your water runs through too fast (under 20 seconds), your grind is too coarse. Aim for a 25-30 second extraction.
- Check Temperature: Water that is too cool (below 195°F) won’t emulsify the oils properly.
- Clean Your Machine: Old oil buildup in the portafilter breaks down surface tension, killing crema bubbles.
9. FAQ Section
Q: Does Super Crema work in super-automatic espresso machines?
A: Yes, it is actually one of the most recommended beans for machines like Breville, De’Longhi, and Philips. The beans are not overly oily, preventing grinder clogs.
Q: Is Qualita Oro too acidic for espresso?
A: It depends on your taste. It has noticeable brightness. If you are used to dark, bitter roasts, you might find it tart. If you like specialty coffee, you will likely enjoy the sweetness.
Q: which has more caffeine?
A: Lavazza Super Crema has more caffeine because it contains 40% Robusta beans, which have nearly double the caffeine content of Arabica beans.
Q: Can I use Super Crema for French Press?
A: You can, but it is not recommended. The Robusta notes can taste harsh and earthy when steeped for a long time. It is optimized for pressure brewing (Espresso).
Q: How do I store these beans to keep the crema potential?
A: Store them in an airtight container (like an Airscape or Vacuum canister) in a cool, dark place. Do not store them in the freezer if you open the bag daily, as moisture will degrade the oils.
10. Final Verdict & Recommendations
The battle between Lavazza Super Crema and Qualita Oro isn’t really a battle of quality—it’s a battle of style.
If your search began with the question, “Which one makes better crema?”, the answer is definitively Lavazza Super Crema. It is engineered specifically to produce that thick, rich foam that espresso lovers crave. It is forgiving, easy to dial in, and pairs perfectly with milk.
However, if you prioritize flavor clarity and sweetness over texture, or if you drink your coffee black, Lavazza Qualita Oro is the more sophisticated 100% Arabica choice.
Our Top Pick for Crema Lovers: Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend.
Our Top Pick for Flavor Purists: Lavazza Qualita Oro Whole Bean Coffee.
