Affogato Recipe
Affogato is an Italian dessert that strikes a magical balance between hot and cold, marrying the intense richness of espresso with the creamy sweetness of gelato. This dreamy treat isn’t just elegant—it’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a little luxury on your own. With just a handful of ingredients, each bite offers deeply satisfying contrasts in texture and temperature, making Affogato a staple for anyone who adores coffee and dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Vanilla Gelato:
- 2 small scoops of high-quality vanilla gelato or ice cream
Espresso:
- 1 shot (about 1 ounce) of freshly brewed hot espresso
Garnish (optional):
- Shaved dark chocolate or crushed biscotti
How to Make Affogato
Step 1: Scoop the Gelato
Start by scooping two small balls of your highest-quality vanilla gelato or ice cream into a chilled serving glass. Chilling the glass keeps your Affogato colder just a touch longer and helps the gelato keep its shape before it meets the hot espresso.
Step 2: Brew the Espresso
Brew a fresh shot of hot espresso—about one ounce. If you have an espresso machine, now’s the time to show it off, but a stovetop moka pot or even strong coffee from an Aeropress works beautifully. The goal is super hot, bold coffee that will slowly melt the gelato.
Step 3: Pour and Watch the Magic
As soon as your espresso is ready, pour it straight over the scoops of gelato in one swift, gentle motion. The espresso’s heat coaxes the gelato into a creamy, swirled pool—wait just a beat or two to let the flavors meld together, but serve immediately for that perfect hot-cold sensation.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
For a finishing touch, sprinkle over some shaved dark chocolate or crushed biscotti, if you like a little crunch. Eat it right away with a small spoon, savoring the magic of Affogato before it fully melts!
How to Serve Affogato
Garnishes
One of Affogato’s best features is how easily you can jazz it up with stylish (and tasty) toppings. Grate a little dark chocolate over the top for a bittersweet contrast, scatter some crushed biscotti pieces for crunch, or even finish with a dusting of cocoa powder. A sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts or a shot of coffee liqueur can take things in a whole new, decadent direction.
Side Dishes
Since Affogato is a sweet and mighty dessert all by itself, you don’t need much alongside—but if you want to stretch out the enjoyment, serve it with a crisp biscotti on the side, a dainty amaretti cookie, or even a thin sliver of lemon tart for a zesty contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Affogato shines in individual clear glasses so everyone can admire the melting, swirling drama. For a party, try mini espresso cups for a tasting menu, or float the gelato in chocolate-rimmed glasses for extra flair. Sprinkle edible gold or colorful candied nuts for celebrations, or add different flavored gelatos for a modern, playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Affogato is meant to be enjoyed immediately, but if you find yourself with melted remains, cover and refrigerate for a couple of hours. The flavors will still please, though the contrast of hot and cold will be gone. You can also use leftovers as a delicious topping over brownies or pancakes.
Freezing
It’s best to freeze components separately. Keep your gelato in the freezer until ready to serve, and brew fresh espresso each time. Freezing a completed Affogato is not recommended, as the texture won’t be the same once thawed and the espresso might crystallize.
Reheating
This dessert is all about the immediacy of hot espresso hitting cold gelato, so there’s no need to reheat leftovers. If your espresso cools down before assembling, just brew a fresh shot before serving for that signature warm pour.
FAQs
Can I use regular ice cream instead of gelato for Affogato?
Absolutely! While Italian gelato brings extra creaminess and a dense texture, high-quality vanilla ice cream also works beautifully for Affogato. Just be sure it’s good quality so it doesn’t turn watery.
What if I don’t have an espresso machine?
No problem! Use a stovetop moka pot or any way of brewing strong coffee. The richer and more concentrated, the better. Even instant espresso powder dissolved in a small amount of hot water can work in a pinch.
Can I make an Affogato without caffeine?
Yes! Decaffeinated espresso is a perfect substitute—you’ll get all the flavor and visual drama, none of the late-night jitters. This is a great option for evening entertaining.
Are there vegan or dairy-free options for Affogato?
Definitely. Choose a rich, dairy-free ice cream or gelato made with coconut or almond milk, and double-check your chocolate or biscotti garnishes for hidden dairy if needed. Even plant-based versions create a delightful Affogato experience.
How can I make my Affogato extra special for parties?
Offer a “build your own Affogato” bar with different gelato flavors, toppings like chopped nuts, caramel sauce, or liqueurs, and let guests pour their own espresso. It’s interactive and encourages lots of delicious experimentation!
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t yet tried making Affogato at home, now’s the perfect moment—there’s honestly nothing more satisfying or fun for coffee lovers and dessert fans alike. Just a couple scoops, a splash of espresso, and you’re about to discover pure Italian magic in a glass! Give it a whirl the next time you crave a quick, indulgent treat.
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Affogato Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the classic Italian dessert, Affogato, that combines the richness of vanilla gelato with a shot of hot espresso. This simple yet elegant treat is perfect for a quick and satisfying sweet fix.
Ingredients
Vanilla Gelato:
- 2 small scoops of high-quality vanilla gelato or ice cream
Espresso:
- 1 shot (about 1 ounce) of freshly brewed hot espresso
Garnish (optional):
- Shaved dark chocolate or crushed biscotti
Instructions
- Scoop the Gelato: Scoop the vanilla gelato into a small serving glass or bowl.
- Brew Espresso: Brew a fresh shot of hot espresso.
- Pour Espresso: Immediately pour the hot espresso over the gelato.
- Serve: Serve right away, optionally garnished with shaved chocolate or crushed biscotti.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent twist, try using flavored gelato like hazelnut or chocolate.
- You can also add a splash of coffee liqueur for an adult version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 affogato
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
