Affogato Recipe
on Jul 18, 2023, Updated Feb 15, 2025
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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.
Variations and Substitutions for This Affogato Recipe
- While espresso is traditional, you can also make this Affogato recipe with a cup of strong, ☕ hot coffee.
- 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.
- If you can’t find gelato, 🍨 ice cream will work just fine.
Similar Recipes
Best Served With
- Serve this Affogato recipe with a few of my delicious Italian 🍪 cookies for dessert such as Pignoli Cookies or Italian Amaretti Cookies.
- Serve this as an afternoon treat after a lunch of Italian Chopped Sandwich or 🥗 Italian Chopped Salad.
Common Questions
Yes, you can add toppings such as shaved chocolate, cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
I love these Bialetti Moka Sets from my Amazon store because it’s the perfect to make two cups of espresso.
Of course! Simply use a non-dairy ice cream or gelato.
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
Equipment
Instructions
- Add a scoop of gelato to a cup or a small mug.
- Pour over a shot of your favorite Italian espresso and enjoy!
My Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I will definitely love trying this out… gotta get an espresso machine . Sounds delicious thank you
Yes, it is so delicious! You can also buy a double shot of espresso from a local coffee shop, or use coffee.