Classic Italian Affogato — Dessert with Vanilla Ice Cream and Hot Espresso

Affogato (which in Italian means “drowned”) is one of Italy’s most beloved desserts: cold ice cream meets hot espresso and melts into an irresistible cream. Perfect as the end of a dinner or as a refreshing afternoon dessert.

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream (about 500 ml)
• 4 freshly prepared cups of espresso (about 120 ml total)
• 2 tablespoons of grated chocolate or cocoa (optional)
• Amaretti biscuits for serving (optional)

Preparation:

1. Place 4 wide dessert glasses or cups in the freezer for about 10 minutes, to chill them well.
2. Prepare 4 strong, hot espressos.
3. Place one scoop of vanilla ice cream in each chilled glass.
4. Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream immediately before serving.
5. Sprinkle with grated chocolate or cocoa and serve immediately, with amaretti biscuits on the side if desired.

Preparation time: 5 minutes. Cooking: not required. Servings: 4.

Tip: For a richer version, add a spoonful of coffee liqueur to the espresso before pouring it over the ice cream.

Photo: Richard Huber / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)