Affogato is probably the simplest coffee-based dessert. It has a nice chocolaty taste and coffee flavor. An affogato is an Italian word for “drowned“. It typically takes the form of a scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream “drowned’ or topped with a shot of warm espresso. Certain variations also include a shot of Bicerin, Amaretto, or some other liqueur. It’s considered one beverage, not a mix of coffee and ice cream.
Though cafes and restaurants in Italy classify the Affogato as a dessert, numerous western cafes and restaurants seem to fight with deciding whether the affogato is a dessert or a drink. While the Affogato recipe is more or less standard in Italia, consisting of a scoop of vanilla gelato surpassed with an espresso shot, variations exist in American and European restaurants.
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops of gelato or ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, or pistachio)
- A “short shot” of espresso ristretto (or 3 tablespoons strong brewed coffee)
To decorate:
- Some shaved dark chocolate and/or chopped hazelnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Put 2 scoops of gelato (or ice cream) in a coffee cup. Next, pour in a shot of espresso (or strong brewed coffee).
- Top with chopped hazelnuts and/or shaved dark chocolate (if desired).
Buon Appetito!