Affogato Recipe

4.67 from 6 votes

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There are few things as delightful as indulging in this Italian Affogato recipe. Whether enjoyed for dessert, as a mid-day energizer, or a decadent start to the day, the combination of creamy, sweet gelato and piping-hot espresso are a match made in heaven. This is a very simple, two-ingredient treat, so it’s important to use the best quality ingredients you can find. Affogato originated in 🇮🇹 Italy, so for authenticity’s sake, seek out Italian gelato and espresso beans. I love classic vanilla gelato, but caramel is also lovely here. Of course, ice cream can always be used in a pinch. Your shot of ☕ espresso should be hot: the gelato is meant to melt and combine with the espresso to create a creamy, sweet drink. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Affogato Recipe

This Italian Affogato recipe is simplicity at its best, and really, there’s nothing better. The word “affogato” means “drowned” in Italian, perfectly describing the way a shot of hot espresso cascades over a scoop of creamy gelato, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. This is a perfect after-dinner 😋 treat for one, but elegant enough to serve to guests who will marvel at the simple indulgence that comes together in mere minutes.

How to Prepare This Affogato Recipe

🍨 Add a scoop of authentic Italian vanilla gelato to a cup or a small mug.

☕ Pour over a shot of your favorite Italian espresso and enjoy!

Nonna’s Tip 🍨

If you can’t find gelato, ice cream will work beautifully.

Affogato Recipe

Variations and Substitutions for This Affogato Recipe

  1. While espresso is traditional, you can also make this Affogato recipe with a cup of strong, ☕ hot coffee.
  2. If you don’t have an espresso maker at home, you can buy a shot (or 2) of espresso from your favorite coffee shop and reheat it at home.
  3. If you can’t find gelato, 🍨 ice cream will work just fine.

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Common Questions

Can I add any toppings to the affogato?

Yes, you can add toppings such as shaved chocolate, cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.

what type of espresso machine do you use?

I love these Bialetti Moka Sets from my Amazon store because it’s the perfect to make two cups of espresso.

can I make this affogato recipe dairy-free?

Of course! Simply use a non-dairy ice cream or gelato.

Can I make a larger batch of affogato for a party?

Yes, you can have pre-scooped servings of gelato held in cups in the freezer. Once your pot of hot espresso is ready, you can pour over each serving and serve.

Affogato Recipe

Affogato Recipe

Whether enjoyed for dessert, as a mid-day energizer, or a decadent start to the day, the combination of creamy sweet gelato and piping hot espresso are a match made in heaven. This is a very simple, two-ingredient treat, so it’s important to use the best quality ingredients you can find.
4.67 from 6 votes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Makes: 1
Author: The Modern Nonna
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients 

  • 1 scoop vanilla gelato, or caramel gelato, or ice cream
  • 1 shot hot espresso

Instructions 

  • Add a scoop of gelato to a cup or a small mug.
  • Pour over a shot of your favorite Italian espresso and enjoy!

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 139kcal, Carbohydrates: 16g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 29mg, Sodium: 57mg, Potassium: 166mg, Fiber: 0.5g, Sugar: 14g, Vitamin A: 278IU, Vitamin C: 0.5mg, Calcium: 85mg, Iron: 0.1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
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Hi! I'm Sneji. Nice to meet you!

I am more commonly known as “The Modern Nonna” on social media where I create easy home cooked meals with a modern twist. I was born and raised in Sofia, Bulgaria and learned how to cook at the best culinary school in the world – my grandma’s kitchen. I lived in Greece on the Island of Crete with my parents for a while and then moved to Toronto, Canada when I was in grade 5. I started to really cook and experiment with food 11 years ago when I was 21 years old. Everything I currently know is a reflection of some part of my life…

Keep up to date with me on social media! Follow @themodernnonna

4.67 from 6 votes (6 ratings without comment)

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2 Comments

  1. I will definitely love trying this out… gotta get an espresso machine . Sounds delicious thank you

    1. Yes, it is so delicious! You can also buy a double shot of espresso from a local coffee shop, or use coffee.