Forget elaborate pastries and complicated cake techniques at your next cocktail hour or party. Our Nespresso Affogato, Italy’s answer to the perfect pick-me-up, is where simplicity meets pure indulgence. A shot of rich, hot espresso meets a scoop of your favorite ice cream, melting it slowly. It’s a dish full of textures and flavors; hot and cold, bitter and sweet, each bite an explosion of contrasting sensations. This recipe is an adventure for your taste buds and shows the power that a few perfect ingredients can have. Plus, the best part is with a Nespresso machine by your side, crafting this culinary masterpiece takes mere minutes.
Using Nespresso
While you can use any type of espresso for an affogato, we find that Nespresso pods provide a delicious balance between bitter and roasted flavors. Their premium selections range to fit any type of coffee drinker, even if you’re not normally a fan of espresso. You can choose from lighter, more delicate blends to the richness of more heavily roasted varieties. Don’t forget to recycle the capsules after brewing.
Nespresso Affogato Recipe
Affogato Ingredients
- 1 big scoop of your favorite ice cream
- 1 shot of espresso
- Pizzelle cookie for garnish
Affogato Preparation Instructions
- Add your ice cream to a small bowl or rocks glass.
- Brew espresso directly over ice cream,
- Garnish with a pizelle cookie and enjoy!
Origins of the Affogato
The exact origins of the affogato remain a mystery. We know it hails from Italy, which makes sense: it’s the land of espresso and gelato. Pinpointing the exact “when,” however, is a bit of a challenge. It’s thought to have come about after the invention of the espresso machine in the 19th century. It did not become popular until the 1950s, coinciding with the modernization of Italy’s ice cream industry. Others propose a much earlier creation, with one legend even crediting a 17th century friar for its start.
Wrap Up
When you’re looking for a dessert with a little pick me up, turn to our Nespresso Affogato for a simple way to prepare this Italian treat. Using Nespresso pods not only makes the process easier but it gives the dish a fresher, richer flavor than using a stovetop pot.
Recipe and Styling by Anna Franklin / Story by Kylie Thomas / Photography by Dave Bryce
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