I love a good iced espresso drink.
I recently discovered this amazing version at my local coffee shop, they used a heavenly homemade vanilla bean ice cream.
It was pure bliss.
Sharp, strong, hot espresso poured over smooth, cold, decadent vanilla ice cream, I knew that I HAD to make it at home!
For those of you who don’t know, an affogato (which literally translates to “drowned” in Italian), or affogato al caffe (drowned in coffee) is an amazing two-ingredient treat!
Some might say an affogato is really an upgraded iced latte.
I’m afraid I have to disagree.
It’s on another level entirely.
This coffee-based dessert is served in cafes and gelato shops all over Italy.
Just imagine, hot espresso poured over cold gelato (or ice cream in my case).
It has become one of my go-to afternoon pick-me-ups.
So, if you like the sound of sweet and creamy gelato mingling with the strong flavor of espresso, an affogato will soon be your go-to treat too!
Don’t worry, you can still enjoy an affogato at home.
One option is to use a different brewing method.
A stovetop espresso maker is a great option.
But you could also simply use your standard coffee maker, brew extra strong coffee, and use about a cup of coffee vs the 1.5 oz.
whatever method, you choose, you’ll just have to make sure to brew enough for all individuals being served.
I get it!
Gelato isn’t exactly on everyone’s corner!
I mean, outside of the mass-produced grocery store stuff.
But Fear NOT!
You can also use a good full-fat Ice Cream or Frozen Custard!
For me, using a delicious Wisconsin replacement still makes an amazing treat.
I would not deviate from using vanilla, but using a vanilla bean ice cream or rich vanilla frozen custard would make an amazing substitute for the Italian Gelato.
I like to serve an affogato in a clear glass.
It adds a fun visual to the drink.
Watching the hot espresso hit the gelato/ice cream and begin to melt together is part of the experience.
You’ll want to have the gelato already scooped into glasses and ready to go so that once the espresso or coffee is brewed you can pour the shot over the top and then serve immediately.
A traditional affogato is topping-free.
This is my preference, but don’t feel confined to that.
Feel free to add a little something before serving.
Maybe some freshly made whipped cream, shaved chocolate, or dip in a crunchy biscotti.
Depending on the age of the kids, you may not want them to drink coffee (chocolate milk could be a great change up, or just make them a root beer float), but they really want to help…
scooping ice cream (make sure you have a couple of dessert bowls for them to enjoy the ice cream)
They can all put their items in their boxes.
Most kids can help with cutting cheese thanks to my handy dandy discovery… the butter slicer!
Add a splash of amaretto or horchata con ron for a fun adult cocktail dessert!
An Italian coffee-based dessert, is made with just two ingredients and is a coffee lover’s dream treat.
Here’s how to make it at home without an espresso machine (and add info on hour to make it an adult drink).
Using your desired brewing method, brew 1 shot of espresso.
As the espresso is brewing, drop 2 scoops of vanilla gelato or ice cream into a small drinking glass.
Pour the hot espresso shot over the ice cream.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ice Cream and Frozen Custard are both great options.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Beverage, Coffee, Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
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My name is Jenn, I'm wife to a true blue Wisconsin Man and mom of 5.
I'm here sharing my passion for food, craft, family, & life (especially my love of Wisconsin)!
I grew up in a food-oriented family.
Most of my recipes are a mix of fun and easy (sometimes fast), and when I can... I add a bit of my family's Chinese-American-European roots.