Affogato...A Simple Dessert In a Glass

Some of life's greatest pleasures are either free or easy to make. Take the affogato.  One shot of espresso, one scoop of gelato and the rest is up to you.  What could be easier and more delicious than that!

Sometimes when I'm in a pinch I will serve this for dessert, primarily for lunch, and it's as if I had presented my guests with a chocolate souffle.  Granted, here in the States it's not often that you come across affogato while in Italy is just as common as Coke.

You have to start with good ingredients, though, and a good shot of espresso is a must .  Espresso is very easy to make at home and you don't need one of those fancy machines either.  Get a simple stovetop espresso maker like the Bilaletti Moka Espresso Maker which comes in various sizes.  Take your pick.  If you are a serious drinker you will have a couple of sizes - a small one for everyday use and a larger one for when you have guests.  I have 3 sizes, wouldn't you know?!

Good espresso beans are important - either Lavazza or Illy will do the trick. 

Next, you will need good ice cream, or preferably, gelato.  Take your pick, chocolate, vanilla, chocolate hazelnut or my favorite, coffee.

And next come the accoutrements.  Here you can be as creative as you want.  Biscotti, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, hazelnuts, amaretti cookie crumbles.  Whatever you do, try to keep the Italian theme!

Next is optional, and that can be anything from grappa to Amaretto or Kahlua. 

Pretty cups, pretty dishes, nice presentation and you've got a smashing success!

 

Recipe

1 scoop of gelato
1 shot of espresso
whipped cream or your choice of topping.

You might also want to check this recipe for Chocolate Gelato Affogato

Photos Google