Get ready to revolutionize your dessert game with this Ninja Creami Italian Affogato Ice Cream recipe. It's a creamy, caffeinated dream that'll make you wonder why you ever settled for plain old vanilla.
Affogato means “drowned” in Italian, which perfectly describes this dessert—vanilla ice cream is drowned in hot espresso. It’s a classic Italian treat often enjoyed as a dessert or an afternoon pick-me-up. I used my go-to vanilla ice cream recipe and paired it with my favorite Nespresso coffee for the perfect blend of creamy and robust flavors. You can also use coconut ice cream if you'd like it dairy-free.
Growing up, I thought affogato was a fancy dessert only found in Italian restaurants. But guess what? It’s super easy to make at home! Whether you're entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this recipe brings the Italian café vibe straight to your kitchen.
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What is Affogato?
Affogato is an Italian dessert that combines ice cream or gelato with hot espresso. Traditionally, it's made with vanilla ice cream, which melts into the coffee, creating a creamy, rich blend of sweet and bitter.
This dessert is often served in Italian cafés as a simple yet elegant treat. It’s a favorite among coffee enthusiasts who enjoy the contrast of hot and cold, sweet and bitter, in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the ice cream. Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Half and Half: Provides a balanced texture without making the ice cream too heavy. Use whole milk if needed.
- Cottage Cheese: Gives a smooth texture, mild flavor and protein boost. Cream cheese can work as a substitute.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and a creamy texture. Adjust the amount if you prefer less sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds classic vanilla flavor to the ice cream. Use vanilla bean paste for a richer taste.
- Espresso or Strong Coffee: Drown your ice cream with your favorite brew. Use decaf if you’re avoiding caffeine.
How to Make Affogato Ice Cream Using Ninja Creami?
- Prepare the Ice Cream Base: In a Vitamix blender, combine heavy cream, half and half, cottage cheese, condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Freeze the Mixture: Pour the ice cream base into the Ninja Creami pint container and freeze for at least 24 hours.
- Spin the Ice Cream: Once frozen, insert the pint into the Ninja Creami and select the "Ice Cream" function. Allow it to churn until smooth and creamy.
- Make the Affogato: Scoop the ice cream into a serving glass or bowl. Brew a fresh shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee and pour it over the ice cream.
Topping and Mix-in Suggestions
- Chocolate Shavings: Adds a touch of decadence and a little extra sweetness.
- Cocoa Nibs: Adds a deep, chocolatey crunch without extra sweetness, perfect for balancing the creamy, sweet ice cream.
- Crushed Amaretti Cookies: Adds a crunchy texture and almond flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee.
- Chopped Nuts: Chopped Hazelnuts, walnuts or almonds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: For a sweeter, richer twist, drizzle caramel sauce on top.
- Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt enhances the flavors and adds a savory contrast.
Equipment
- Vitamix Blender: Perfect for blending your ice cream base to a smooth consistency.
- Ninja Creami Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker: This machine churns your ice cream to perfection, making it incredibly creamy and smooth.
Top tip
Make sure your ice cream base is thoroughly frozen before churning in the Ninja Creami for the best texture. For an extra strong coffee flavor, double up on the espresso shot or try a bold dark roast.
FAQ
Yes, you can use store-bought vanilla ice cream for a quick affogato. Just add your espresso and enjoy!
Use your favorite espresso or strong coffee. For a traditional taste, opt for Italian espresso.
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream and half and half with coconut cream and coconut milk, and use dairy-free ice cream.
Yes, flavored coffee like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut can add an extra layer of flavor to your affogato.
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Recipe Card
Ninja Creami Italian Affogato Ice Cream Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Blender
- 1 Ninja Creami Ice Cream Maker
- 1 Ninja Creami Pint Container
Ingredients
Vanilla Ice Cream
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Half and half
- ½ cup Cottage Cheese
- ½ cup Condensed Milk
- 2 teaspoon Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Affogato
- ½ cup Espresso or Strong brewed coffee
Instructions
- Prepare the Ice Cream Base: In a Vitamix blender, combine heavy cream, half and half, cottage cheese, condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Freeze the Mixture: Pour the ice cream base into the Ninja Creami pint container and freeze for at least 24 hours.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Once frozen, insert the pint into the Ninja Creami and select the "Ice Cream" function. Allow it to churn until smooth and creamy.
- Make the Affogato: Scoop the ice cream into a serving glass or bowl. Brew a fresh shot of espresso or strong coffee and pour it over the ice cream.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your affogato as the hot espresso melts into the cold ice cream, creating a luscious, creamy dessert.
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