A simple and delicious finish to any meal that will delight coffee lovers. Italian Affogato is a fun food word that became my go-to dessert during COVID. Keep vanilla ice cream in your freezer at all times and think Italian affogato when you need something quick.

This is a dessert that can be served after any meal or just as a late night treat. Following the Italian theme I would serve this simple dessert after a dinner of Chicken Pesto Pasta, Chicken with tomato sauce and tapenade or Pesto Meatloaf (because I obviously like pesto).
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Ingredients for Affogato
Italian affogato is made with espresso. In your kitchen you can take all the liberties you want and name your creations anything you want. This is my House Affogato.
- Vanilla ice cream - Plain ice cream in the freezer is like a blank canvas to a cook. You can turn it into anything.
- Espresso - I don't make espresso often but I have that little silver espresso maker in my cupboard.
- Dark chocolate & Hazelnuts - optional but a nice touch.
See recipe card for exact amounts.
Ingredients: Espresso vs Coffee
Espresso is made with finely ground beans then brewed with a high ratio of grounds to water. Coffee is more coarsely ground and less concentrated so has a milder flavour. For anyone who wants or needs decaf, you can buy decaf espresso beans, whole or ground.
Substitutions
Substitute chocolate chips for the dark chocolate for a slightly lesser quality but equally satisfying dessert. I recommend adding the chocolate chips first then pouring the coffee over top to slightly soften them.
Get The Tools
For an occasional espresso to make this dessert a simple stovetop espresso maker is just fine. If you want or need a stainless espresso machine with steam wand, this is your sign. If you still have bought portion scoops (used for so many jobs in the kitchen) get a set of three. Use the large ice cream scoop for this recipe, add everything, snap a picture and enjoy!


Italian Affogato
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup freshly brewed espresso
- 4 teaspoon grated dark chocolate
- 4 teaspoon chopped, toasted hazelnuts
Instructions
- Put a scoop of vanilla ice cream into a small coffee cup or dessert dish.
- Pour ¼ cup hot espresso over the ice cream.
- Sprinkle with grated chocolate and chopped hazelnuts.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
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Steshni Corea
new summer classic for me haha!