Affogato is the easiest Italian dessert that only needs two ingredients—espresso and gelato (or ice cream). And that beautiful simplicity makes it the perfect dessert to serve guests at dinner parties.
Why You’ll Love This Affogato
Although my love for espresso started with my trip to Portugal years ago, affogato has a special place in my heart from the countless times I’ve enjoyed this dessert in Italy. The contrast between chilled, creamy ice cream and hot, bold espresso is pure perfection—a true testament to Europe’s thriving coffee culture. Here’s what else you’ll love about this easy affogato recipe:
- It’s a simple dessert that impresses. It’s amazing how elegant two simple ingredients can look in a glass cup. Your dinner guests will love it!
- It’s easy to adapt and get creative. Make your affogato night extra special by adding chopped nuts, a drizzle of caramel sauce, a splash of liquor, or even swapping espresso for hot chocolate to create a kid-friendly version. I’ve shared more creative ideas below!
Affogato Ingredients
- Ice Cream or Gelato: In Italy, gelato is traditionally used, but feel free to use any type of vanilla ice cream you enjoy. Today, I’m using my homemade vegan vanilla ice cream, dotted with cacao nibs for a delightfully crunchy touch.
- Freshly Brewed Espresso: If you have an espresso machine, great! If not, you can also use a Moka espresso maker or AeroPress to brew espresso. Instant espresso powder or strongly brewed coffee can work well as a substitute.
Find the printable recipe with measurements below.
How To Make Affogato
- Add ice cream. Place the ice cream in a shorter glass or dessert bowl. I also like to use a really good ice cream scooper to get that perfect mounded shape. I’ve linked my favorite one in the recipe card below. We’re going for an elegant presentation here after all!
- Add espresso. Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream and dig in with a spoon immediately. The ice cream will melt and swirl with the espresso—it’s divine! If your guests want to portion out their espresso, you can serve the espresso in a separate shot glass and allow them to pour it themselves as they eat the ice cream. Plus, it’s fun to get them involved in the process!
Affogato Variations
- Hot chocolate affogato: Make an alcohol-free version for kids on special holidays by pouring hot chocolate on top instead of espresso! I also recommend pouring the hot chocolate into a small jug for them to pour on top, to give them the full DIY experience.
- Boozy affogato: Add a splash of liqueur, like amaretto, Frangelico, or Baileys for a slightly boozy touch. Almost like an edible version of an espresso martini.
- Nutty affogato: If you’re serving this up with plain vanilla ice cream or gelato, adding chopped nuts such as hazelnuts, walnuts, or pistachios, adds a delicious crunch.
More Easy Desserts
- Panna Cotta: Another Italian dessert recipe you’ll love.
- Chocolate Avocado Pudding: My all-time favorite healthy dessert!
- Rice Pudding: The perfect warming dessert that can be customized.
- Strawberry Frozen Yogurt: The best summertime dessert.
If you make this affogato recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below! Your review will help other readers in the community. And if you’re hungry for more healthy food inspiration and exclusive content, join my free newsletter here.
Perfect Affogato
Description
Equipment
- Breville Espresso Machine I'm loving this home espresso machine so far!
- Moka Pot A great option for a stovetop method to make espresso.
- AeroPress Another quick way to make espresso.
Ingredients
- 1 large scoop vanilla ice cream
- 2 ounces (about 2 shots) freshly brewed espresso
Instructions
- Add ice cream. Place the ice cream in a shorter glass or dessert bowl.
- Add espresso. Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream and dig in with a spoon immediately! The ice cream will melt and swirl with the espresso.
Lisa’s Tips
- If you don’t have an espresso machine, don’t worry! You can also use a Moka espresso maker or AeroPress to brew espresso. Instant espresso powder or strongly brewed coffee can work well as a substitute.
Nutrition
©Downshiftology. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited.
Recipe originally posted June 2016, but updated to include new photos, and information for your benefit!
Looking forward to trying! Where did you purchase those adorable glass bowls!
Hi Brit – Those were from Crate and Barrel, but I’m not sure if they still carry them. Hope you enjoy the affogato!
IS 2 shots of espresso for 1 serving or do you divide 2 shots between 6 servings? This recipe looks awesome!!!!!!!!
Hi Jacqueline – I like to use two shots per serving, but you can always use as much or as little espresso as you’d like. Enjoy!
This was amazing!! I made the recipe minus the coconut oil to use in the ninja creami. It came out so good! I will definitely be making this again! Thank you for your delicious recipes ❤️
Glad you enjoyed this ice cream recipe Jennifer!
Hi Lisa! This looks amazing!
Is the ice cream maker an essential step? I’m wondering what the texture would be like just blending and freezing. Thanks!
Hi Lina – you could make it without the ice cream maker, it will just be more dense and less fluffy. :)
Hi Lisa,
I am excited to try this recipe! Can you use homemade coconut milk? Or do you need that thick white solid thing that happens with the cans of coconut?
Thanks,
Lara
Hi Lara – unfortunately, homemade coconut milk won’t work for this recipe. You do need that thick white coconut cream from a can to make this. :)
Hi there! Have you used any alternative nuts besides cashews or combining different nuts? :)
Hi Britney – I haven’t tried any other nuts in this recipe. :)
Love your recipes! Do you use the entire can of coconut milk, or just the white, creamy part? Thanks!
Yes, the whole can. :)
Thank you for this lovely recipe! I also love the mini cups. Would you mind sharing where you got them?
Glad you like the recipe! These are the little jars: https://amzn.to/2GmQTHR
Looks amazing Portugal.
Hi Terri – thanks! Yes, Portugal is definitely an amazing country. :) x
You have my sympathy! Don’t put too much pressure on yourself – ease back into the normal routine at whatever pace is best for you, and just post on your blog/work on recipes when you can. No worries or rush :) Love this dessert recipe!
Thanks Liz! You’re always so supportive and I greatly appreciate that. Much love! xo