Affogato: The Italian Dessert That Will Change Your Life
If you're a fan of coffee and ice cream, then you're in for a treat. Affogato is a traditional Italian dessert that combines these two delicious treats into one heavenly dish.
What is Affogato?
Affogato is a dessert made by pouring a shot of espresso over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The hot espresso melts the ice cream slightly, creating a deliciously creamy and rich dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
The name "affogato" comes from the Italian word for "drowned," which refers to the way the espresso is poured over the ice cream. The dessert is typically served in a small bowl or glass, making it a perfect dessert option for a dinner party or intimate gathering.
History of Affogato
The origin of affogato is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Italy in the 20th century. Some say that it was created in Italy's coffee shops as a way to showcase the quality of the country's coffee, while others suggest that it was a way to use up leftover ice cream.
Regardless of its origin, affogato has become a popular dessert in Italy and around the world, thanks to its simple yet satisfying combination of flavors.
Making Affogato at Home
Making affogato at home is incredibly easy and only requires a few ingredients:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Espresso
- Optional: whipped cream or chocolate sauce for topping
To make affogato, simply place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a small bowl or glass. Then, brew a shot of espresso and pour it over the ice cream. If desired, you can top the affogato with whipped cream or chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Variations of Affogato
While the classic affogato is made with vanilla ice cream and espresso, there are many variations you can try to mix things up. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Frangelico Affogato
- Salted Caramel Affogato
- Baileys Affogato
If you don't have a coffee machine you can always use a coffee plunger or a portable expresso machine
Frangelico Affogato
Ingredients1 scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
1 shot of Espresso
30 mls of Frangelico liqueur
Instructions:
Scoop ice cream into a glass and drizzle Frangelico over the top.
Gently drizzle the hot espresso over your ice cream and serve immediately.
Salted caramel:
200gm sugar
80gm butter
125ml cream
Maldon salt to taste
Salted Caramel Affogato – to make each one:
2 scoops of good quality vanilla ice cream
2 Tbsp salted caramel (or as desired)
1 shot espresso
Instructions
Salted caramel: (make in advance)
Heat the sugar in a frying pan.
Stir gently as the sugar dissolves.
Remove it from the heat and add the butter in parts whilst continuously whisking
Return the pot to the heat and add the cream immediately, still whisking vigorously.
When the sauce has become smooth and amalgamated (this happens quickly) remove it from the heat and add a good sprinkle of salt which dissolves.
Allow it to completely cool and stir in another good sprinkle of salt, which remains in its granular form.
To serve the affogato:
Scoop the ice cream into a glass or cup. Pour over the salted caramel, and add the shot of hot espresso. Garnish with flake chocolate.
Baileys Affogato
1 scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
30 mls Baileys
1 shot of espresso
Instructions:
Scoop ice cream into glass and drizzle Baileys over the top.
Gently drizzle the hot espresso over your ice cream and serve immediately.
Garnish with flake chocolate.