Affogato
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| Type | Coffee-based dessert |
| Origin | Italy |
| Ingredients | Espresso, ice cream |
| Served | Hot and cold |
An affogato is a coffee-based dessert made by pouring hot espresso over cold ice cream, usually vanilla. The contrast between hot and cold creates a unique combination of flavors and textures.
Origin
The affogato originated in Italy. Its name comes from the Italian word “affogato,” meaning “drowned,” referring to ice cream being drowned in espresso.
How it’s made
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream or gelato is placed in a cup or glass
- A shot of hot espresso is poured over the ice cream
Typical ratio: 1 scoop ice cream + 1 shot espresso
Typical size: served in a small bowl or glass
Taste profile
- Hot and cold contrast
- Rich espresso flavor
- Sweet and creamy
- Slight bitterness from coffee
Variations
- Chocolate affogato – topped with chocolate sauce or shavings
- Nut affogato – almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios
- Liqueur affogato – with a splash of amaretto or coffee liqueur
- Flavored ice cream – chocolate, hazelnut, or caramel
Serving
Typically served immediately after preparation so the ice cream partially melts. Often enjoyed as a dessert rather than a traditional coffee.