Affogato al Caffè: A Timeless Italian Dessert with Coast Roast Espresso

Few Italian treats strike the perfect balance between indulgent and effortless like the affogato. Literally translating to “drowned”, the affogato brings together just two ingredients—gelato and espresso—to create a sensory experience that blends hot with cold, bitter with sweet, creamy with bold.

With Coast Roast Espresso, you can elevate this classic dessert into something extraordinary. Our organic, shade-grown Arabica beans are roasted to bring out a rich depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with velvety gelato

The Story Behind Affogato

Affogato became popular in Italian cafés during the mid-20th century as both a quick pick-me-up and a refined dessert. Today, it remains a staple in trattorias and gelaterias across Italy—enjoyed after dinner as both a coffee and a sweet treat in one.

The simplicity of the recipe means quality matters most: premium espresso and authentic gelato are non-negotiable.

Ingredients

• 2 scoops of vanilla or hazelnut gelato (ice cream works too, but gelato’s creaminess is traditional)
• 1 shot of Coast Roast organic espresso (about 1 oz). For decaf option- substitute with a shot of Coast Roast Swiss Water Decaf.
• Optional garnishes: grated dark chocolate, biscotti, or a splash of amaretto or Frangelico liqueur

Directions

1. Chill the Glass - Briefly place your serving glass or bowl in the freezer for a more elegant presentation.
2. Add the Gelato - Scoop two generous portions into the glass.
3. Brew the Espresso - Pull a fresh, hot shot of Coast Roast Espresso.
4. Drown the Gelato - Pour the espresso directly over the gelato.
5. Serve Immediately - The magic of affogato is in the hot-cold contrast, so enjoy it right away.

Tips & Variations

• Balance is key – Stick to one shot of espresso. Too much liquid and your dessert turns soupy.
• Upgrade with texture – Add biscotti or amaretti cookies on the side.
• Grown-up twist – A splash of coffee liqueur turns it into a digestivo-worthy treat.
• Flavor experiments – Pistachio or chocolate gelato are delicious variations.

Why Coast Roast Espresso Makes the Difference

The coffee you choose defines the affogato. Our Coast Roast Espresso delivers a smooth yet bold profile that can stand up to the sweetness of gelato without overpowering it. The result is a dessert that feels like a trip to Italy—no passport required.