Desserts > Dessert Drinks > Hot Dessert Drinks Recipes > Affogato Recipe

Classic Affogato Recipe

Indulge in the simple yet exquisite pleasure of a classic Affogato. This Italian dessert drink combines the rich bitterness of espresso with the sweet, cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream or gelato. It's a perfect balance of hot and cold, bitter and sweet, making it an ideal after-dinner treat or a quick pick-me-up any time of day. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, the Affogato is a versatile dessert that's sure to impress.

Prep Time
5
Cook Time
0
Servings
1
Ingredients
  • 2 scoops Vanilla Ice Cream or Gelato
  • 2 shots (approx. 60ml) Freshly Brewed Espresso
  • To taste Optional: Chocolate shavings, biscotti crumbs, or a drizzle of liqueur (e.g., Amaretto, Frangelico)

Chill Your Glass

For an even more refreshing experience, chill your serving glass (a small bowl or coffee cup) in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before assembling your Affogato. This will help keep the ice cream from melting too quickly.

Scoop the Ice Cream

Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream or gelato into your chilled glass. The quality of the ice cream will greatly impact the final taste, so choose a good quality brand.

Prepare the Espresso

Brew two shots of espresso. The espresso should be hot and strong to provide the perfect contrast to the cold ice cream. If you don't have an espresso machine, you can use a Moka pot or very strong brewed coffee, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Pour and Serve Immediately

Immediately pour the hot espresso over the ice cream. The ice cream will start to melt, creating a delicious, creamy sauce. Serve immediately while the contrast between hot and cold is at its peak.

Optional Garnishes

Garnish with chocolate shavings, biscotti crumbs, or a drizzle of your favorite liqueur, such as Amaretto or Frangelico, for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per serving

Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: Approximately 250-350 kcal
Fat: 15-25g
Saturated Fat: 10-15g
Cholesterol: 50-80mg
Sodium: 50-100mg
Carbohydrates: 25-35g
Sugar: 20-30g
Protein: 5-7g

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

The sugar content can be high, so enjoy in moderation. Choose a low-fat or sugar-free ice cream option to reduce calories and sugar. Consider the caffeine content from the espresso, especially if serving in the evening.

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FAQ

  • Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?

    While espresso is traditional, you can use very strong brewed coffee as a substitute. However, the flavor profile will be different, and the coffee may not be as concentrated.
  • Can I use different flavors of ice cream?

    Absolutely! Vanilla is the classic choice, but you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate, coffee, hazelnut, or even salted caramel for a unique twist.
  • Can I make Affogato ahead of time?

    It's best to assemble Affogato just before serving to maintain the contrast between hot and cold. Preparing it ahead of time will result in a melted, less appealing dessert.
  • Is Affogato gluten-free?

    Affogato itself is typically gluten-free, but be sure to check the labels of your ice cream and any garnishes to ensure they are gluten-free as well.