Affogato, meaning “drowned” in Italian, is a minimalist dessert made by pouring a shot of hot espresso over cold vanilla gelato or ice cream. The hot meets cold, the bitter meets sweet — it’s a symphony of flavor and temperature in a single cup.
For best presentation and contrast, chill serving glasses or small dessert bowls in the freezer for 5–10 minutes.
Place 1 generous scoop of gelato into each serving glass or bowl.
Brew 2 shots of hot espresso using an espresso machine, stovetop Moka pot, or Nespresso machine.
Just before serving, pour one hot shot of espresso over each scoop of gelato.
Serve immediately, before the gelato melts completely.
Affogato is best enjoyed with a demitasse spoon or small spoon — start by eating the semi-frozen portion, then drink the remaining espresso-gelato blend.
Affogato al Cioccolato: Use chocolate gelato + espresso
Affogato Amaretto: Add a splash of amaretto liqueur
Affogato Affogato: Double shot of espresso for intense coffee lovers
Try with salted caramel, pistachio, or hazelnut gelato for flair
Drink: Biscotti, grappa, or a chilled glass of Vin Santo
Food: Serve after a light pasta dish or a rich Italian stew for contrast
2 servings