How to Make Affogato at Home
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I love a good iced espresso drink. I recently discovered this amazing version at my local coffee shop, they used a heavenly homemade vanilla bean ice cream. It was pure bliss. Sharp, strong, hot espresso poured over smooth, cold, decadent vanilla ice cream, I knew that I HAD to make it at home!
For those of you who don’t know, an affogato (which literally translates to “drowned” in Italian), or affogato al caffe (drowned in coffee) is an amazing two-ingredient treat! Some might say an affogato is really an upgraded iced latte. I’m afraid I have to disagree. It’s on another level entirely. This coffee-based dessert is served in cafes and gelato shops all over Italy.
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Just imagine, hot espresso poured over cold gelato (or ice cream in my case). It has become one of my go-to afternoon pick-me-ups. So, if you like the sound of sweet and creamy gelato mingling with the strong flavor of espresso, an affogato will soon be your go-to treat too!
NO ESPRESSO MACHINE
Don’t worry, you can still enjoy an affogato at home. One option is to use a different brewing method. A stovetop espresso maker is a great option. But you could also simply use your standard coffee maker, brew extra strong coffee, and use about a cup of coffee vs the 1.5 oz. whatever method, you choose, you’ll just have to make sure to brew enough for all individuals being served.
NO GELATO?
I get it! Gelato isn’t exactly on everyone’s corner! I mean, outside of the mass-produced grocery store stuff. But Fear NOT! You can also use a good full-fat Ice Cream or Frozen Custard! For me, using a delicious Wisconsin replacement still makes an amazing treat. I would not deviate from using vanilla, but using a vanilla bean ice cream or rich vanilla frozen custard would make an amazing substitute for the Italian Gelato.
HOW TO SERVE
I like to serve an affogato in a clear glass. It adds a fun visual to the drink. Watching the hot espresso hit the gelato/ice cream and begin to melt together is part of the experience. You’ll want to have the gelato already scooped into glasses and ready to go so that once the espresso or coffee is brewed you can pour the shot over the top and then serve immediately.
A traditional affogato is topping-free. This is my preference, but don’t feel confined to that. Feel free to add a little something before serving. Maybe some freshly made whipped cream, shaved chocolate, or dip in a crunchy biscotti.
COOKING WITH KIDS
DISCLOSURE: Please keep in mind that the following tips are general and are meant to be suggestive. I personally use these strategies with my own kids, who are all unique even within my own family of five. Therefore, please regard these as suggestions or ideas. If you feel that your child requires more or less assistance, then go with what you and your child are comfortable with. Ultimately, you know your child best.
Depending on the age of the kids, you may not want them to drink coffee (chocolate milk could be a great change up, or just make them a root beer float), but they really want to help…
MAKE IT BOOZY
Add a splash of amaretto or horchata con ron for a fun adult cocktail dessert!
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How to Make Affogato at Home
An Italian coffee-based dessert, is made with just two ingredients and is a coffee lover’s dream treat. Here’s how to make it at home without an espresso machine (and add info on hour to make it an adult drink).
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 glass 1x
Instructions
Equipment
Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine + Milk Frother
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Espresso 2oz Shot Glasses (2 pack)
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Luigi Bormioli Set of 4 Classic Double Old Fashioned Glasses
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- Ice Cream and Frozen Custard are both great options.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage, Coffee, Dessert
- Cuisine: Italian
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