Affogato is a simple Italian coffee dessert made by pouring hot espresso over vanilla gelato, creating a contrast of warm and cold in just two ingredients. It requires no special equipment beyond a basic brewing method and takes minutes to prepare.
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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!
Affogato is meant to be served and consumed immediately; do not store.
espresso machine or alternative brewing method (pour-over, French press, Moka pot) · small drinking glass
Yes. Use any brewing method you have—pour-over, French press, Moka pot, or instant espresso—to create a strong, concentrated shot of coffee, then pour it hot over the gelato.
Yes, regular vanilla ice cream works as a substitute, though gelato has a denser texture and richer flavor that pairs better with espresso.
Pistachio, hazelnut, and stracciatella are classic alternatives to vanilla, each offering a different flavor pairing with the espresso.
Add a shot of Kahlúa, Marsala, or Amaretto to the espresso before pouring it over the gelato.
No, but chilling the glass helps slow melting and keeps the dessert cold longer, especially if you plan to sip it slowly.
