Affogato al Caffè | Traditional Italian Ice Cream and Coffee Dessert
- Desserts & Sweets, Italy
Looking for a dessert that effortlessly combines the rich flavors of espresso with the smoothness of ice cream? Affogato al Caffè is a timeless Italian treat that offers a perfect blend of hot and cold. This classic dessert provides a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or an ice cream lover, this simple yet indulgent recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients:
- 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream or fior di latte (sweet cream ice cream)
- 1 shot of hot espresso
- Optional: a splash of amaretto or hazelnut liqueur
- Optional: grated chocolate or crushed biscotti for garnish

Directions:


(1) Prepare the Gelato:
Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream in a dessert bowl or cup.
(2) Prepare the Espresso:
Brew a hot espresso using an espresso machine or stovetop espresso maker.
(3) Serve the Affogato:
Pour the hot espresso over the scoops of ice cream. The heat from the espresso will partially melt the ice cream.
Enjoy the affogato immediately while the contrast between hot espresso and cold ice cream is at its best.
(4) Add Optional Ingredients:
If desired, add a splash of amaretto or hazelnut liqueur for extra flavor.
Garnish with grated chocolate or crushed biscotti if desired.

Some Recipe Tips:
Choose Quality Ice Cream: Use high-quality vanilla ice cream or fior di latte for the best flavor. Fresh, creamy ice cream will melt more evenly and complement the espresso better.
Chill Your Glass: Pre-chill your serving glass or bowl to keep the ice cream from melting too quickly when you add the hot espresso.
Espresso Temperature: Ensure the espresso is freshly brewed and hot, but not scalding, to create a pleasant contrast with the cold ice cream.
Serve Immediately: Affogato is best enjoyed right after preparation to experience the delightful mix of hot and cold temperatures.
Serve Separately for Guests: For guests, serve the ice cream and espresso separately so everyone can pour the espresso over their own ice cream just before eating, keeping the ice cream firm until served.

Affogato al Caffè | Traditional Italian Ice Cream and Coffee Dessert
Course: Desserts & SweetsCuisine: ItalyDifficulty: Easy1
servings5
minutesLooking for a dessert that effortlessly combines the rich flavors of espresso with the smoothness of ice cream? Affogato al Caffè is a timeless Italian treat that offers a perfect blend of hot and cold. This classic dessert provides a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or an ice cream lover, this simple yet indulgent recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
2 scoops of vanilla ice cream or fior di latte (sweet cream ice cream)
1 shot of hot espresso
Optional: a splash of amaretto or hazelnut liqueur
Optional: grated chocolate or crushed biscotti for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Gelato:
Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream in a dessert bowl or cup.
Prepare the Espresso:
Brew a hot espresso using an espresso machine or stovetop espresso maker.
Serve the Affogato:
Pour the hot espresso over the scoops of ice cream. The heat from the espresso will partially melt the ice cream.
Enjoy the affogato immediately while the contrast between hot espresso and cold ice cream is at its best.
Add Optional Ingredients:
If desired, add a splash of amaretto or hazelnut liqueur for extra flavor.
Garnish with grated chocolate or crushed biscotti if desired.
Notes
- Choose Quality Ice Cream: Use high-quality vanilla ice cream or fior di latte for the best flavor. Fresh, creamy ice cream will melt more evenly and complement the espresso better.
- Chill Your Glass: Pre-chill your serving glass or bowl to keep the ice cream from melting too quickly when you add the hot espresso.
- Espresso Temperature: Ensure the espresso is freshly brewed and hot, but not scalding, to create a pleasant contrast with the cold ice cream.
- Serve Immediately: Affogato is best enjoyed right after preparation to experience the delightful mix of hot and cold temperatures.
- Serve Separately for Guests: For guests, serve the ice cream and espresso separately so everyone can pour the espresso over their own ice cream just before eating, keeping the ice cream firm until served.