Looking for a simple yet impressive summer (or holiday) dessert? Then an affogato is just what you need.
This Italian classic combines the best of both worlds: creamy vanilla ice cream and delicious espresso. In this blog, you will learn all about making affogato coffee.
Affogato coffee ingrediënts
For a classic affogato coffee, you only need three things:
- 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
- 1 espresso shot
- pinch of sea salt (optional but recommended)
Affogato recipe
This affogato recipe is super easy to make. Follow the 4 steps below:
- Scoop one or two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a chilled glass or bowl.
- Make a fresh espresso or ristretto.
- Slowly pour the hot espresso over the ice cream.
- Add a small pinch of sea salt.
Voilà! Enjoy your delicious affogato coffee.
FAQ about Affogato
What is affogato?
Affogato comes from the Italian word for ‘drowned’. A perfect name for this dessert where vanilla ice cream drowns in hot coffee.
How do you eat affogato?
Affogato is eaten with a spoon, right after you pour the coffee over the ice cream. That way you get every bite both hot and cold, with the full flavour of espresso and the creaminess of the ice cream.
Tip: don’t stir too much, that way you preserve the beautiful layers.
What kind of coffee do you use for affogato?
For a true affogato coffee, use an espresso or ristretto. A double shot of espresso can overpower the flavour of the ice cream.
A good tip is to split one shot over two servings, or use a ristretto for a strong, syrupy result. The combination of concentrated coffee with the melting ice cream is what makes this dessert so special.
Do I have to use vanilla ice cream?
The classic affogato recipe is with vanilla ice cream. But don’t let this hold back your creativity!
I myself have sometimes made a tasty affogato with pistachio ice cream or chai ice cream. So let your creativity run wild and experiment away. Maybe you’ll find your next favourite combination!