Craving a creamy, indulgent Italian dessert? Affogato is the answer! Simple yet decadent, this Italian treat combines rich espresso with cold vanilla gelato, creating a perfect balance of hot and cold, sweet and bitter. So come on, follow ISK’s lead on how to make affogato at home in no time!
What is Affogato?
Affogato is a traditional Italian dessert that translates to ‘drowned’. That’s because it’s made by ‘drowning’ a scoop of vanilla gelato with a shot of hot espresso. The result is a heavenly mix of smooth, creamy gelato and bold, aromatic coffee—the ultimate indulgence for coffee and dessert lovers alike. What is more delicious than that? Affogato strikes just the right balance between sweet and bitter; with its simplicity and elegance, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a sweet finish to a meal or just a quick pick-me-up.
How to Make Affogato at Home: The Italian Street Kitchen Recipe!
Making affogato at home is fairly simple, but how to make affogato perfect each time is a question that many Italian chefs continue to ponder over and improve upon. The answer lies in how you prepare each component of this dessert—from how you choose and brew your coffee beans, to how you make your vanilla gelato or ice cream. Of course, we also need an espresso machine (or Moka pot) as well!
Here’s a guide on how to make affogato at home, with a bit of classic flair (and flavour).
What You’ll Need (Essential Ingredients & Tools):
- A double shot (or two single shots) of espresso—strong and rich; preferably with an espresso machine or Moka pot.
- A scoop of high-quality vanilla gelato or ice cream.
- Liquor—for an extra-indulgent affogato, you can use Opal Nera Sambuca, Amaretto, Frangelico or Kahlua. Deliziosa!
- A small glass or bowl for serving
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Affogato Perfectly
Step 1: Brew a fresh shot of espresso. You can use an espresso machine, stovetop espresso maker, or even a pod machine. Just make sure it’s hot and freshly made! The key to brewing a great espresso is all in the grind size and how you tamp down the coffee. When tamping down the coffee, make sure to use even pressure and give it a good twist!
Step 2: While the espresso brews, scoop 1-2 generous scoops of vanilla gelato or ice cream (even better if it’s homemade) into your serving glass or bowl. It should be cold and creamy, ready to contrast with the hot espresso.
Step 3: Once your espresso is ready, pour it gently over the gelato. Watch as the hot coffee melts the gelato slightly, blending the flavours into a deliciously creamy treat.
Step 4: If desired, sprinkle some cocoa powder or add chocolate shavings to elevate the presentation.
And don’t forget to serve immediately! Affogato is best enjoyed while the contrast between the hot and cold is at its finest.
Best Ingredients for the Perfect Affogato
The secret to an exceptional affogato lies in the quality of its ingredients. The right selections will take the dessert from simple to sublime. High-quality gelato, with its creamy texture and rich flavour, is essential. Equally important is freshly brewed espresso, providing the bold, aromatic counterpoint to the sweet gelato.
Affogato Variations: Creative Twists to Try
While the classic affogato is a masterpiece, experimenting with variations can lead to delightful discoveries. Different gelato flavours, toppings, and serving styles can create unique and exciting versions of this beloved dessert.
Classic Affogato
The traditional combination of a shot of espresso poured over vanilla gelato is the epitome of Italian simplicity. This authentic preparation, showcasing the perfect balance of bitter coffee and sweet cream, remains the most popular version of affogato for a reason.
Chocolate Lover’s Affogato
Indulge your chocolate cravings with a decadent twist. Substitute vanilla gelato with chocolate gelato and top with cocoa powder or dark chocolate shavings for a rich, intensely satisfying affogato experience.
Boozy Affogato
Why not give your affogato a sophisticated, adult-friendly kick? Adding a splash of Amaretto, Baileys, or Frangelico enhances the flavours and adds a touch of warmth, transforming it into an after-dinner delight.
Nutty Affogato
Add a delightful textural contrast and an extra layer of flavour with a nutty twist on your affogato. Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts, almond flakes, or pistachios on top for a satisfying crunch and complementary nutty notes.
Spiced Affogato
Infuse your affogato with warmth and aroma by adding a hint of spice. A sprinkle of cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg can bring a unique depth to the dessert, creating a cosy and comforting flavour profile.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Affogato
If you want to take your how-to-make-affogato game even further, try serving it up as an affogato martini—simply mix coffee liqueur and milk into an espresso shot instead of water, and shake well with ice cubes until cold and frothy. Pour this into a martini glass and enjoy!
Isabella’s Tip: You can also use coffee-flavoured ice creams/gelatos such as espresso, café latte or cappuccino, for an extra kick of coffee in your affogato!
Enjoy the Best Italian Desserts at Italian Street Kitchen!
Looking for your next decadent Italian dessert fix? Come visit us at the Italian Street Kitchen today! We have six stunning locations across both Sydney and Brisbane, each serving up authentic and delicious Italian cuisine. Our extensive menu offers something for everyone, from classic favourites like pizza and pasta to modern twists on traditional dishes.
Try out our ‘how to make affogato’ guide today and indulge in the best Italian dessert around. Buon appetito!
