An Affogato is a simple yet delightful coffee-based dessert where a scoop of vanilla ice cream or gelato is “drowned” in a shot of hot espresso.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a great Affogato coffee:
Ingredients:
Vanilla ice cream or gelato (high-quality, if possible)
Freshly brewed espresso (1-2 shots per serving)
Optional: Chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or crushed nuts for garnish
Equipment:
Espresso machine or Moka pot
Espresso cups or small bowls
Dessert spoons
Step 1: Brew Espresso
If you have an espresso machine: Prepare 1-2 shots of espresso using your espresso machine. The amount can vary depending on your preference.
If you don’t have an espresso machine: Brew espresso using a Moka pot as described in previous instructions.
Step 2: Scoop the Ice Cream
While the espresso is brewing, scoop a generous portion of high-quality vanilla ice cream or gelato into an espresso cup or a small dessert bowl.
Step 3: Pour Espresso
Once the espresso is ready, immediately pour it over the scoop of ice cream.
The hot espresso will start to melt the ice cream, creating a delightful combination of hot and cold.
Step 4: Garnish (Optional)
For an added touch of elegance, you can garnish your Affogato: Sprinkle chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or crushed nuts on top of the ice cream and espresso.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
The Affogato is best enjoyed immediately while the espresso is still hot and the ice cream is melting. Use a dessert spoon to scoop up a bit of both the espresso-soaked ice cream and any garnish you added. Savor the rich, sweet, and slightly bitter contrast of flavors and temperatures.
Affogato is a simple and versatile dessert, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. You can experiment with different ice cream flavors or add a shot of liqueur, such as amaretto or Baileys, to create variations of this classic treat.
