This Simple Affogato recipe is a delicious way to enjoy coffee and ice cream together in a dessert. With only 2 ingredients, it's truly an easy and impressive treat.
What is an affogato?
It's an Italian dessert consisting of hot espresso poured over ice cream or gelato.
In Italian, "affogato" literally means "drowned."
As the ice cream melts into the coffee, Affogato can be categorized as both a dessert and as a drink.
Why you'll love this recipe
This recipe is so easy to whip up, with only 2 ingredients!
You can change up the flavour of the ice cream for a twist.
Try a Matcha Affogato for a green tea version.
Ingredients you'll need
- vanilla ice cream: or any flavour ice cream or gelato you like
- hot espresso: a shot of espresso; it's made by forcing hot water through compacted coffee grounds at high pressure; you can also use strong brewed coffee or instant espresso powder if you prefer
How to make it
Add 1-2 scoops of ice cream into a serving vessel.
Pour hot espresso/coffee over the ice cream and enjoy immediately with a spoon and/or straw.
How to serve
Since Affogato is quick to prepare, impress any last-minute guests with this easy treat.
You can enjoy Affogato after a meal as a dessert, or have it as an afternoon pick-me up.
Serve the Affogato with biscuits or cookies on the side.
FAQs & expert tips
Tips:
- Chill the serving vessel in the fridge or freezer for 10-15 minutes to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.
- If you don't want your ice cream to melt too quickly, use cooled espresso rather than hot espresso.
- Play around with adding garnishes such chopped nuts, cookies, or adding a shot of liqueur (eg. Amaretto, Baileys, etc).
Do I need to use espresso?
No, you can use brewed coffee or instant coffee if you prefer.
Can I make this without caffeine?
If you're sensitive to caffeine, use decaffeinated coffee/espresso instead.
Can I use dairy-free dessert?
Yes, you can choose a dairy-free/vegan dessert instead of ice cream if you like.
Other recipes you may like
Be sure to check out these recipes:
Cà Phê Sữa đá (Vietnamese Iced Coffee)
Vietnamese Coffee French Toast
Iced Ube Latte (Purple Yam Coffee)
Let me know if you try out this recipe -- tag me on Instagram @siftandsimmer or leave me a comment/rating below!
Simple Affogato
For accuracy and precision in baking recipes, use weight (metric) measurements when available.
Ingredients
- 1-2 scoops ice cream or gelato of your choice
- 1 shot hot espresso or ¼ C strong brewed coffee
Instructions
- Add 1-2 scoops of ice cream into a serving vessel.
- Pour hot espresso/coffee over the ice cream and enjoy immediately with a spoon and/or straw.
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided should be considered as approximate and is not guaranteed. Please use your best judgment to ensure food is safely prepared and/or a good fit for your diet.
Heidi | The Frugal Girls
Your amazing Affogato dessert is something I can really get into. It's easy to make and combines two of my very favorite things, espresso and ice cream!
Michelle
Thanks Heidi, it's such a delicious and simple dessert! Can't go wrong with coffee and ice cream!
Ben | Havocinthekitchen
I love Affogato, and this looks terrific! I definitely prefer my serving with Bailey's or other delicious liquors 🙂
Michelle
Yes, Bailey's is such a great addition to affogato! 😀
David @ Spiced
I love affogato! Believe it or not, I've never actually made it here at home, though - I think the upcoming holiday break sounds like a great time to make this!! Excellent photos, by the way!
Michelle
Ahh, thanks David! I understand, it's so easy to make, but it's one of those desserts that gets overlooked at home! 😀
Raymund | angsarap.net
Certainly one of my favourite types of coffee
Michelle
So easy and delicious! Thanks Raymund.
2pots2cook
Easy, tasty and soooo delicious ! Thank you so much Michelle !
Michelle
Thanks Davorka! Such a quick, tasty and easy dessert!