Affogato Recipe

The Affogato proudly shows off the simple and elegant flavors of Italian cooking, bringing together the joy of mixing two favorites: coffee and ice cream. This delicious dessert, rooted in Italian tradition, has won worldwide love for its straightforwardness, elegance, and amazing taste. Making an affogato is simple: you just take a scoop of creamy vanilla gelato or ice cream and pour a shot of hot, fragrant espresso over it. This mix creates a perfect balance of cold and hot, sweet and bitter, turning it into more than just a dessert—it’s a whole experience. Its simple recipe and few ingredients have made it very popular, earning fans among both dessert lovers and coffee fans. Whether ending a fancy dinner or enjoying a relaxed afternoon snack, the affogato stands as a beautiful example of Italian cooking’s joy, inviting everyone to enjoy its tasty mix of flavors and temperatures.

What is Affogato?

Affogato, meaning “drowned” in Italian, is a dessert that perfectly captures the idea behind the word. It’s a scoop of smooth vanilla gelato or ice cream “drowned” in a shot of hot, freshly made espresso. This dessert combines the creamy texture of gelato with the deep, rich taste of espresso, creating a thrilling yet comforting contrast.

The affogato sticks to a few key ingredients: high-quality vanilla gelato or ice cream for a sweet, cold base, and hot espresso poured over to balance the sweetness. The espresso’s warmth slightly melts the ice cream, blending the flavors and textures beautifully. Although vanilla is the traditional choice because it pairs well with coffee, the affogato is versatile, allowing for different ice cream flavors to meet various tastes.

Served in a small cup or glass, the affogato doubles as both a dessert and a drink, delivering a unique food experience that showcases the beauty and simplicity of Italian desserts. It proves that luxury can be simple, showing that a two-ingredient dessert can be just as enjoyable and complex as more intricate dishes.

Affogato Recipe

Recipe by Matt Simmons

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

1

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

5

minutes

Calories

203

kcal

This affogato recipe is a straightforward and elegant dessert that combines the rich warmth of espresso with the cool sweetness of vanilla ice cream. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a simple treat, this dessert comes together in just a few minutes. You’ll brew fresh, hot espresso and pour it over scoops of creamy vanilla gelato, watching as the ice cream gently melts, creating a creamy, dreamy coffee-infused treat. It’s an exquisite balance of flavors and temperatures, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

Ingredients

• Vanilla Gelato or Ice Cream: 1 scoop (about ½ cup)

• Hot Espresso: 1 shot (about 1 ounce or 30 ml)

• Optional Garnishes (adjust quantity to taste):

• Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle, for an added layer of chocolate flavor and a visually appealing garnish.

• Biscotti: 1 piece, either served whole on the side or crumbled over the top for added texture.

• Cocoa Powder: A light dusting, for a subtle chocolate touch and an elegant finish.

Directions

• Begin by brewing a single shot of espresso. Use an espresso machine or a coffee maker capable of making espresso. If you’re using freshly ground coffee beans, aim for a fine grind to achieve a rich and aromatic espresso. The ideal temperature for brewing espresso is between 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C).
• Select a small, sturdy glass or cup that can withstand the temperature contrast between the hot espresso and the cold gelato or ice cream. Place the serving glass on a saucer or serving plate to catch any drips or overflow.
• Shortly before you’re ready to serve, scoop a generous portion of vanilla gelato or ice cream into the serving glass. If you’ve taken the gelato or ice cream out of the freezer ahead of time, ensure it’s not too melted; it should still hold its shape well.
• As soon as the espresso is brewed, pour it gently over the scoop of gelato or ice cream in the glass. Aim to cover most of the gelato or ice cream with the espresso to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Immediately sprinkle chocolate shavings over the top for a rich, chocolatey addition. If using, add a dusting of cocoa powder for a professional touch, or crumble a piece of biscotti for a contrasting texture.
• Serve the affogato immediately to enjoy the contrast between the hot espresso and the cold gelato or ice cream. Provide a spoon for enjoying the creamy, melted gelato mixed with the espresso, and a small espresso spoon or fork if biscotti is served on the side.

Equipment

• Espresso Machine
• Ice Cream Scoop
• Serving Glass

Notes

• Temperature Contrast: The key to a perfect affogato is the contrast in temperatures. Serve the espresso as hot as possible and the gelato or ice cream as cold as it can be without being too hard.
• Presentation: Choose a clear glass for serving to showcase the beautiful layers of espresso and gelato. A stemless wine glass or a small tumbler can add an elegant touch.
• Flavor Variations: While vanilla is traditional, feel free to experiment with other gelato or ice cream flavors that pair well with coffee, such as caramel, hazelnut, or chocolate.
• Enjoy Immediately: Affogato is best enjoyed as soon as it’s prepared, allowing you to experience the full range of flavors and the delightful temperature contrast.

Nutrition Facts

• Total number of serves: 1
• Calories: 203kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 8g
• Sugar: 22g

Conclusion

The affogato is a sublime example of how two seemingly simple ingredients can create a dessert experience that transcends the sum of its parts. This Italian classic elegantly combines the warmth of espresso with the cool creaminess of gelato, offering a dessert that is both sophisticated and refreshingly simple to prepare. Its charm lies in the delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors, making it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether as an elegant finish to a dinner party or a luxurious treat on a quiet afternoon.

Beyond its traditional recipe, the affogato invites experimentation and personalization. The versatility of this dessert means you can adapt it to suit different tastes and occasions. From experimenting with different flavors of gelato to exploring non-coffee alternatives like hot chocolate or chai, there’s no limit to the variations you can create. Each adjustment offers a new dimension to the dessert, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or to surprise and delight your guests with something unique.

Moreover, the affogato serves as a reminder of the beauty found in simplicity. In a world where complexity is often equated with sophistication, the affogato stands out for its straightforward preparation and presentation, proving that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated techniques to enjoy a truly exquisite dessert.

As you embark on your affogato-making journey, allow yourself the freedom to explore and experiment. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture into new flavor territories, the affogato is sure to provide a delightful culinary experience. So, next time you’re in search of a dessert that promises both elegance and ease, remember the affogato: a perfect fusion of coffee and cream, ready to be enjoyed in its timeless simplicity or reinvented in endlessly delicious variations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Affogato

1. Can I make affogato without an espresso machine?
   • Yes, you can still enjoy an affogato even without an espresso machine. Use a strong brewed coffee or a coffee concentrate from a French press, Aeropress, or even instant espresso powder as an alternative. The key is to ensure the coffee is strong and hot enough to meld deliciously with the ice cream.
2. Is it possible to serve affogato as a vegan dessert?
   • Absolutely! To make a vegan affogato, simply substitute the traditional gelato or ice cream with a plant-based alternative made from coconut, almond, soy, or oat milk. There are many excellent vegan ice creams available that can pair beautifully with espresso or a coffee alternative.
3. How can I prevent the gelato from melting too quickly when pouring hot espresso over it?
   • To slow down the melting process, consider pre-chilling the serving glass in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before assembling the affogato. Additionally, using a slightly thicker scoop of ice cream or serving the espresso on the side to be poured by each guest can help manage the melting rate.
4. What are some non-coffee alternatives that work well with affogato?
   • For those who prefer to avoid coffee, hot chocolate, chai latte concentrate, and matcha green tea are excellent alternatives. Each option offers a unique flavor profile that can complement the creaminess of the gelato, creating a delightful dessert experience.
5. Can affogato be made ahead of time for a party?
   • While affogato is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, you can streamline the process for a party by pre-scooping the ice cream into serving glasses and keeping them in the freezer. Brew the espresso or coffee just before serving, and quickly pour it over the pre-scooped ice cream to serve your guests a fresh and delightful affogato with minimal wait time.