Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (2024)

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How to make an Italian Affogato! This is the easiest dessert to whip up when you're entertaining or want a last-minute sweet treat after dinner. Made with rich vanilla ice cream and espresso coffee, grated dark chocolate, and a cheeky splash of nocino nut liqueur, delicious!

Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (1)

When it comes to Italian desserts this affogato recipe is up there on the top of my list alongside tiramisu and panna cotta!

One of the reasons I love it so much is because it is so incredibly easy to make, I'm talking 5 minutes max and you're guaranteed to have everything you need in your kitchen! It's really that easy.

A 5-minute sweet treat made with creamy vanilla ice cream, a strong punch of espresso coffee and a splash of liqueur, omg it's just incredible! The boozy addition is totally optional but so worth it.

I know what you're thinking, it's just going to melt straight away and turn into a warm coffee milkshake type thing but it doesn't!

You eat the gelato and coffee with a spoon, it's the perfect mix of hot and cold, bitter and sweet then drink anything that's left at the bottom. It's like your after-dinner espresso and dessert all in one!

Jump to:
  • How to make an Italian Affogato - step by step
  • Top tips and recipe FAQs
  • More delicious desserts you might like
  • ☆Full Recipe

How to make an Italian Affogato - step by step

Brew an espresso (one per person). Scoop 1-2 scoops of vanilla ice cream into a wide glass or bowl and pour over a shot of espresso (photos 1-3).

Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (2)

Pour 1 tablespoon of liqueur (optional) over the ice cream and grate over a little dark chocolate. Grab a spoon and dig in (photos 3 & 4).

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Top tips and recipe FAQs

  • Gelato to espresso ratio - use 1 shot of espresso (max 40ml) to 1-2 scoops of ice cream. Don't use diluted or watered down coffee it should be short and strong.
  • Make sure your gelato is ice cold - your gelato or ice cream should be just soft enough to scoop, don't leave it sitting for too long or it'll melt when the hot coffee is poured over.
  • Add liqueur to your affogato (optional) - Adding liqueur to your affogato is an amazing way to take it up a notch. I love to use a nut liqueur such as Nocino (walnut) or Frangelico (hazelnut) but you could also use rum, grappa, Tuaca or even a coffee based liqueur for an extra coffee kick!
  • Different topping ideas - If you want to add a bit of crunchy texture then chopped hazelnuts or pistachios are delicious on top, you could also sprinkle over some grated chocolate.
  • The best servings glasses to use - a small drinking glass is best for serving this dessert, it should be just big enough to hold the ice cream.

What's the best coffee to use?

Use espresso coffee (100% arabica is best) or 3-4 tablespoon of strong brewed coffee. To make the coffee use an Italian moka pot or coffee machine.

What does Affogato mean?

Affogato means drowned or poached. For example, poached eggs in Italian is le uova affogate so this dessert is like gelato poached or drowned in warm coffee.

How do you drink an Affogato?

The best way to enjoy an affogato is with a spoon, eat the ice cream first and then drink the coffee along with any melted ice cream.

What's the best ice cream to use?

Good high-quality vanilla gelato is what's traditionally used but you can use there are many other flavours that would work; stracciatella (vanilla with chocolate shards), Nutella and pistachio ice cream are other Italian flavours I love to use. Try to go for vanilla, nut or chocolate flavours as fruity flavours wouldn't taste nice with coffee.

Is it hot or cold?

This dessert is warm it's a perfect mix of cold gelato and hot coffee, so delicious!

Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (3)

More delicious desserts you might like

  • Tiramisu - Authentic Recipe!
  • The Ultimate Chocolate Martini
  • Tiramisu Ice Cream
  • Torta della Nonna (custard tart)
  • Crostata (Italian jam tart)

If you’ve tried this Affogato Recipe or any other recipe on the blog please let me know how you got on in the comments below, I love hearing from you! You can also FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM & PINTEREST to see more delicious food and what I’m getting up to.

☆Full Recipe

Step By Step Photos AboveMost of our recipes come with step by step photos, helpful tips and tricks to make it perfectly first time and even video!

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Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (4)

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5 from 9 votes

Italian Affogato Recipe

How to make an authentic Italian Affogato with creamy vanilla ice cream and a strong shot of espresso. Add an optional splash of liqueur and grate of a little dark chocolate for the ultimate treat!

Course Dessert

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 serving

Calories 310kcal

Author Emily Wyper

Ingredients

  • 2 scoops vanilla ice cream high quality
  • 1 shot espresso
  • 1 tablespoon nut or coffee liqueur (optional)
  • dark chocolate , for grating on top

Instructions

  • Brew an espresso (one per person). Scoop 1-2 scoops of vanilla ice cream into a wide glass or bowl and pour over a shot of espresso.

  • Pour 1 tablespoon of nocino nut liqueur or your liqueur of choice over the ice cream and grate over a little dark chocolate.

Notes

  • Gelato to espresso ratio - use 1 shot of espresso (max 40ml) to 1-2 scoops of ice cream. Don't use diluted or watered down coffee it should be short and strong.
  • Make sure your gelato is ice cold - your gelato or ice cream should be just soft enough to scoop, don't leave it sitting for too long or it'll melt when the hot coffee is poured over.
  • Add liqueur to your affogato (optional) - Adding liqueur to your affogato is an amazing way to take it up a notch. I love to use a nut liqueur such as Nocino (walnut) or Frangelico (hazelnut) but you could also use rum, grappa, Tuaca or even a coffee-based liqueur for an extra coffee kick!
  • Different topping ideas - If you want to add a bit of crunchy texture then chopped hazelnuts or pistachios are delicious on top, you could also sprinkle over some grated chocolate.
  • The best servings glasses to use - a small drinking glass is best for serving this dessert, it should be just big enough to hold the ice cream.

Nutrition

Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 58mg | Sodium: 109mg | Potassium: 262mg | Sugar: 31g | Vitamin A: 555IU | Calcium: 169mg

Helpful Info for All Recipes

  • I always use extra virgin olive oil in all of my recipes unless stated otherwise
  • When I use canned or jarred tomatoes of any kind I always use Cirio or Mutti brands for the best results and flavour.
  • All vegetables are medium sized unless stated otherwise
  • All recipes are tested and developed using a fan (convection) oven
  • Find out more about how nutrition is calculated.
  • Check out our must have Italian Pantry Staples.
  • You can also find all our Essential Kitchen Tools for Italian Cooking.

Did you try this recipe?Mention @insidetherustickitchen or tag #insidetherustickitchen! We'd love you see what you're getting up to in the kitchen!

More Italian Desserts

  • Pastiera Napoletana
  • Italian Mimosa cake (Torta Mimosa)
  • Crema Fritta (Deep Fried Custard)
  • Amaretto Red Wine Poached Pears

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. leti

    awesome and looks super good i’ll definitely try this today, im running to buy ice cream right nowItalian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (9)

    Reply

  2. Peggy

    My daughter made this and I am 65 and don't know how I never heard of it before but I love it! I have awful insomnia so I am planning to make it for breakfast tomorrow for my man and I! He is going to really think I am special! LOLItalian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (10)

    Reply

    • Inside the rustic kitchen

      Hi Peggy, hope you enjoy it that'll be one special breakfast indeed!

      Reply

  3. Elizabeth

    Oh my goodness this sounds amazing! How is it I've never even heard of this before? I need this in my life!Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (11)

    Reply

    • Inside the rustic kitchen

      You so need to...life is much better with it haha

      Reply

  4. Ellen

    I have always wanted to make this and now I have an awesome recipe!

    Reply

    • Inside the rustic kitchen

      Thanks so much Ellen, enjoy!

      Reply

  5. Jaclyn Anne

    Affogato combines my two favorite things - ice cream and coffee. Yum!Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (12)

    Reply

    • Inside the rustic kitchen

      Yup..you can't go wrong!

      Reply

  6. Kelli Kerkman

    Yes! Affogato is the perfect after-dinner drink/dessert!Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (13)

    Reply

    • Inside the rustic kitchen

      Thanks Kelli, I totally agree!

      Reply

  7. Hannah

    I love affogato coffee, because I want a treat and a coffee as well at the same time. 😀 Such amazing combo!Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (14)

    Reply

    • Inside the rustic kitchen

      It's the perfect combo and nice and light too, thanks Hannah!

      Reply

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Italian Affogato Recipe - Ice Cream And Coffee (2024)

FAQs

What ice cream goes best with affogato? ›

Affogato purists may say you must use vanilla gelato. But across the U.S., vanilla gelato is not always easily accessible. So, use vanilla ice cream. And while you're at it, why not try affogatos with lavender, chocolate, coffee, Oreo, or other flavors of ice cream?

What is it called when you put ice cream in coffee? ›

Affogato – coffee, dessert and your after dinner drink, all rolled into one. This is what you have when you're “too full for dessert”! Just pour espresso coffee over vanilla gelato or ice cream, enjoy the melty swirls and dig in. The Italians are genius.

What is vanilla ice cream and espresso called? ›

The affogato is a dessert made with two main ingredients: vanilla ice cream and espresso. Originally invented in Italy, the word “affogato” literally translates as “drowned” in English.

How do Italians eat affogato? ›

Ideally, coffee is poured on top of the ice cream before serving. Many prefer to use the spoon, while some slowly sip the concoction instead. Whichever method you use, ensure that you eat it before it melts. In Italy, the Affogato is typically served after lunch or dinner.

Is ice cream and coffee a good combination? ›

By swapping ice cubes with scoops of the sugary treat, you can keep your coffee cool without watering it down. It will also make it extra sweet, so you can either skip the cream and sugar, or just pile it on top and consider it your dessert. Try mixing espresso with your ice cream.

What is the best flavor for affogato? ›

Vanilla ice cream is a great base, but pistachio, salted caramel, or chocolate are also crowd-pleasers. You can top your affogato with things like crushed nuts, cookie crumbles, or even your favorite candy bar to really take it up a notch.

Does Starbucks make affogato? ›

Although it's not technically a menu item, you can grab what's essentially an affogato-to-go by getting a little creative with your next frozen drink order. The secret is to start with a classic Vanilla Bean Crème frappuccino.

What does affogato mean in Italian? ›

Affogato literally means “drowned” in Italian. The word is used to describe when a liquid is poured over a food, usually cold food, but it can also describe cooking techniques using minimal liquid at a temperature of 175-185 °F, which should never reach the boiling point.

What is a blended affogato? ›

Our take on the traditional Affogato dessert uses our delicious Ice Blended® drinks instead of ice cream to create a unique coffee experience. Try an espresso shot (or two) poured on top of your favorite Ice Blended® drink.

What are Italian ice creams called? ›

Gelato is a frozen dessert of Italian origin, similar to ice cream. In fact, “Gelato” simply means “ice cream” in Italian. However, this ice cream has a softer, more velvety texture than American ice cream. Gelato typically contains 70% less air and more flavoring than other kinds of ice cream.

What is Coca Cola and vanilla ice cream called? ›

Alternative names. Ice cream soda, co*ke float, root beer float, spider. Type.

What is the difference between affogato and espresso? ›

Here are some key differences between both drinks: An affogato contains dairy products such as ice-cream/gelato while espressos do not.

Can you order an affogato in Italy? ›

Here, again, Italians have a clever two-for-one: affogato. Order this at a gelateria and you'll get a shot of espresso poured over a scoop of gelato for a creamy, frosty summertime treat.

What is the correct way to eat affogato? ›

Grab your spoon and dig in! If you prefer, sip it straight from the bowl. The sweetness of the gelato tempers the bitterness of the coffee, while the contrasting temperatures eventually balance each other out. Don't leave it too long, or you will find that you have with coffee-gelato soup!

What's the difference between gelato and affogato? ›

The affogato is an Italiano creation that translates to “drowned.” An affogato is essentially one to two scoops of vanilla gelato or ice cream doused by a shot of fresh espresso. This marriage of sweet ice cream and bitter coffee mingle, melting into a puddle of goodness.

How should you eat affogato? ›

Grab your spoon and dig in! If you prefer, sip it straight from the bowl. The sweetness of the gelato tempers the bitterness of the coffee, while the contrasting temperatures eventually balance each other out. Don't leave it too long, or you will find that you have with coffee-gelato soup!

Does Baskin Robbins have affogato? ›

Try a classic affogato with Vanilla ice cream, or customize with your favorite flavor. Now you can get this decadent treat that will transport your taste buds to Italy at Dunkin' and Baskin-Robbins combo stores nationwide for only $3.49.

Are you supposed to drink an affogato? ›

The whole idea behind Affogato is for the ice cream to melt and to drink it.

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