Affogato al Caffè: A Simple Italian Delight
Indulge in the simple yet utterly delightful Italian dessert, Affogato al Caffè. This elegant treat perfectly combines the rich warmth of espresso with the creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream, making it an ideal dessert for coffee lovers. Whether you’re wrapping up a cozy meal or just in need of a quick and decadent pick-me-up, the Affogato is a classic choice that’s effortless to prepare. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 2 scoops high-quality vanilla ice cream
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 tablespoon nut or coffee liqueur (optional, but recommended for an added depth of flavor)
- Dark chocolate, for grating on top
Directions
- Brew the Espresso: Start by brewing a strong shot of espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a stovetop Moka pot or a concentrated amount of very strong coffee can substitute.
- Prepare the Ice Cream: Scoop one to two scoops of your best vanilla ice cream into a wide glass or dessert bowl. The ice cream should be firm but not too hard, as it will melt slightly when the hot espresso is poured.
- Assemble the Affogato: Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream in a slow stream, allowing the ice cream to melt slightly and mix with the coffee creating a creamy, frothy layer on top.
- Add Liqueur (Optional): For an extra layer of complexity, drizzle a tablespoon of nocino nut liqueur or any coffee liqueur over the ice cream. This step is optional but highly recommended for adults looking to enjoy a deeper flavor.
- Garnish: Grate a little dark chocolate over the top for a garnish that adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of cocoa bitterness, which complements the coffee beautifully.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Servings: 1
Prep and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
The Affogato al Caffè serves as a perfect example of Italian simplicity at its finest, where quality ingredients speak for themselves. This dessert not only dazzles as an after-dinner delight but also pairs wonderfully with a sunny afternoon as a refreshing treat. Enjoy crafting this effortless yet sophisticated dish that promises to transport your senses straight to the heart of Italy.
Affogato al Caffè
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 1x
Description
Affogato al Caffè is a classic Italian dessert that beautifully combines the robust flavors of hot espresso with the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream. The espresso is poured over the ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures, finished with a touch of grated dark chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you are looking for a quick treat after a meal or an impressive yet simple dish for a gathering. The nut or coffee liqueur adds a sophisticated twist, making it a versatile and customizable option for dessert lovers.
Ingredients
2 scoops high-quality vanilla ice cream
1 shot espresso
1 tablespoon nut or coffee liqueur (optional)
Dark chocolate, for grating on top
Instructions
Brew an espresso (one shot per person).
Scoop 1-2 scoops of vanilla ice cream into a wide glass or bowl.
Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream.
Add 1 tablespoon of nocino nut liqueur or your liqueur of choice over the ice cream (optional).
Grate a little dark chocolate on top for garnish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 200 kcal