Coffee recipes · Practical home barista guide
Affogato is dessert at its best: cold vanilla gelato or ice cream, with fresh espresso poured over it just before serving. Two ingredients, and almost no cleanup.
What matters: The contrast matters. Serve the espresso hot and the gelato cold.
Serves1 drink
Active time3 minutes
Coffee baseEspresso + gelato
What you need
- 1 generous scoop vanilla gelato or ice cream (about 60–90 g)
- 1 espresso, or a short double if you like a stronger coffee bite
- Optional: pistachios or a little grated dark chocolate
Make it at home
- Chill a small dessert glass if you have time, then add the scoop of gelato.
- Pull your espresso right before serving. Do not leave it sitting on the counter for ten minutes.
- Pour espresso over the gelato at the table. Eat immediately while the textures are still distinct.
- Add a small garnish if you want it, but keep the main pairing simple.
Which coffee works best?
A nutty or chocolate-forward espresso is an easy pairing with vanilla; a fruity roast can be fun if you prefer contrast. There is no need to chase maximum bitterness to “cut through” the ice cream.
