How to make an Italian affogato, dessert and coffee all in one

If you love coffee and desserts, affogato is one of those treats you simply must try. This Italian dessert, with just two ingredients, achieves a perfect combination of hot and cold, bitter and sweet. It's easy to make at home and is the perfect way to impress at the dinner table. Plus, its simplicity allows for countless variations to suit all tastes. Ready to discover how to make it and the best versions of this iconic Italian dessert? Let's get started!

What is affogato coffee?

The affogato is a fusion of dessert and coffee that embodies the essence of Italian gastronomy: simple, elegant, and delicious. Its name means "drowned" in Italian, which perfectly describes what happens when hot espresso is poured over a scoop of ice cream, usually vanilla. Although some consider it a drink and others a dessert, the truth is that affogato is both. You can enjoy it with a spoon or wait for the ice cream to melt enough to drink it like a creamy coffee. In either case, its combination of temperatures and textures makes it unique.

The origin of the affogato

There is no exact record of when the affogato was born, but its popularity began to grow in Italy in the mid-20th century, when espresso machines became common in homes, bars, and cafes. It is believed to have originated in northern Italy , where coffee-based desserts, such as tiramisu, are highly popular. The recipe quickly spread throughout the country, and with the rise of coffee culture worldwide, the affogato became a classic in many international coffee shops. Some stories claim it was created as an elegant way to combine espresso with a cold dessert without complicated preparation. What is undeniable is that it continues to win over palates worldwide, adapting to new versions with innovative ingredients.

Recipe: How to make a perfect affogato coffee

Affogato is an incredibly easy dessert to make, but its success depends on the quality of the ingredients. It's not just about mixing ice cream and coffee, but about doing it in a way that allows them to complement each other and enhance their flavors.

Ingredients for a classic affogato

• 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream (approximately 50g)
• 1 freshly made espresso (30-50 ml)
• Optional: chocolate shavings, almonds, liqueur or caramel for a special touch

Step-by-step preparation

Choose the right coffee

The affogato relies on the intensity of espresso, so it's important to use a specialty coffee with good body and interesting aromatic notes. An Arabica coffee with hints of chocolate or nuts is ideal for balancing the sweetness of the ice cream. If you don't have an espresso machine, you can prepare it in an Italian coffee maker (moka pot) or a French press , ensuring you get a strong and flavorful concentration.

Choose the perfect ice cream

Vanilla ice cream is the most popular choice because its sweetness and creaminess contrast beautifully with the intensity of the coffee. However, you can try other options like hazelnut, pistachio, or chocolate ice cream for a different twist. If you can, use artisanal or good quality ice cream , since affogato doesn't have many ingredients and each one should shine.

Prepare the cup or glass

The affogato is traditionally served in a large coffee cup or a short glass , preferably made of glass, to appreciate how the espresso envelops the ice cream and melts into a creamy mixture.

Assembling the affogato

1. Place a generous scoop of ice cream in the cup or glass.
2. Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream in a slow, controlled motion so that the coffee envelops it and begins to melt it gently.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy with a spoon.

Tips for a perfect affogato

• Don't pour the coffee while it's too hot , as it will melt the ice cream too quickly. It's best to wait a few seconds after brewing.
• Use a good ratio of coffee to ice cream : a short espresso works best to maintain the balance of flavors.
• Add toppings to give it personality : from cocoa powder to a biscotti cookie as an accompaniment.

Variations of the affogato: something for everyone

While the classic version is delicious, the affogato also lends itself to many interpretations. Here are some of the best variations:

• Chocolate affogato 🍫: Add chocolate syrup or sprinkle cocoa powder over the ice cream before pouring the coffee.
• Affogato with Baileys 🥃: Add a splash of Baileys or Irish cream liqueur to your coffee for a creamier touch.
• Affogato with liqueur 🍾: Try Amaretto, Frangelico or coffee liqueur for a more sophisticated version.
• Pistachio affogato 🌿: Use pistachio ice cream instead of vanilla for a more exotic touch and a hint of salt.
• Vanilla affogato with caramel 🍮: A drizzle of caramel sauce can give it an extra sweetness that contrasts with the coffee.
• Affogato with whipped cream 🥄: Add a layer of whipped cream on top for an even more indulgent texture.

Each of these versions adds a new nuance to the affogato, but all maintain its essence: the perfect balance between heat and cold, sweetness and bitterness.

How many calories are in an affogato?

Affogato is a relatively light dessert compared to other more elaborate options. However, its calorie content can vary depending on the ingredients used.

• Classic Affogato (vanilla ice cream + espresso): 150-200 kcal
• With chocolate or caramel: 200-250 kcal
• With Baileys or another liqueur: 250-300 kcal
• With whipped cream and extra toppings: 300-350 kcal

If you're looking for a lighter version, you can opt for sugar-free ice cream or reduce the amount of ice cream in the preparation.

A simple and elegant pleasure

The affogato proves that simplicity can be synonymous with sophistication. With just two ingredients, you get a dessert with an explosion of flavor, contrasting temperatures, and an irresistible texture. Ideal for summer, for a special after-dinner drink or simply to enjoy a different coffee, the affogato has earned a place in the world's coffee culture. If you haven't tried it yet, now's the perfect time. Brew your espresso, choose your favorite ice cream, and enjoy a homemade affogato that will transport you to Italy with every spoonful . Buon appetito!