Dessert Coffee! Italian After-Dinner Coffee: Affogato

Enjoy this rich dessert any time you want a special treat because it’s super simple to make!

Affogato is an adult Italian after-dinner drink that is as inexpensive as it is luxurious.

 Affogato for One

1)  Put 1/2 cup  of good vanilla ice cream in a narrow glass or coffee cup.

2)  Pour 2 Tablespoons of hot espresso coffee down one side of the cup. If you don’t have espresso, just use regular coffee made double strength.

3)  Optional: add a shot (1-2 ounces) of your favorite liqueur, like Frangelico or Sambuca.

4)  Top with real whipped cream and serve with a spoon.

Create a Little Drama

If you serve affogato with liqueur, you might like to make each serving at the table for a dramatic presentation. Pour the shot of liqueur down one side of the cup or glass at the same time you pour the espresso down the other side of the cup. This looks nice if you use two shot glasses or something similar for pouring the espresso and the liqueur at the same time. A clear glass cup shows off the swirls and changing colors.

If serving affogato in a coffee cup, you might add a special cookie on the saucer. Biscotti or other Italian-style cookie would be perfect!

Click here for my favorite biscotti recipes!  Biscotti are super easy to make, mostly inexpensive, and make a nice impression for such a simple cookie.

Serve this at the end of a dinner party or treat yourself whenever you like. Isn’t this more special than a cup of coffee and a small bowl of ice cream? Enjoy!