Skip to Content
Recipes

Illy Affogato Recipe: The Easy Italian Coffee Dessert for Summer

With just a scoop of gelato and a shot of espresso, this classic Italian dessert delivers a refreshing summer treat in minutes.

10:00 AM EDT on June 12, 2026

illy's classic affogato combines vanilla gelato with freshly brewed espresso for an easy Italian dessert.

illy’s classic affogato combines vanilla gelato with freshly brewed espresso for an easy Italian dessert.

When temperatures rise, few Italian treats are as simple and satisfying as a classic affogato. This version from illy pairs creamy vanilla gelato with a freshly brewed double shot of espresso, creating the perfect balance of hot and cold, sweet and bitter. Finished with whipped cream and a touch of nutmeg, it's an easy dessert that comes together in minutes.

illy Affogato Recipe

Recipe by illy
0.0 from 0 votes

Ingredients

  • .2 oz. .2 illy double shot of espresso (freshly brewed)

  • .8 oz .8 (about two scoops) of vanilla gelato or ice cream

  • 8 oz. 8 serving glass

  • whipped cream

  • nutmeg (for garnish)

Directions

  • Scoop 8 oz (approximately 2 scoops) of vanilla gelato into your serving glass. You can also use vanilla ice cream.
  • Brew 2 oz. or a double shot of espresso. Fresh espresso adds both heat and crema, which help blend flavors and create a sweet blend of flavors.
  • Pour the espresso you've prepared over top the gelato or ice cream into your serving glass.
  • Garnish with a generous topping of whipped cream and sprinkle with a pinch of Nutmeg.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly crafted illy affogato.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @appetitomagazine on Instagram and hashtag it with #italianfoodanddrink

Like this recipe?

Follow @Appetitomagazine on Pinterest

Follow us on Facebook!

Follow us on Facebook

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More Stories

Campari Hosting Campari Spritz Square in Nolita this Weekend

Reservations have been available on a rolling basis and a limited number of walk-in spots are also available.

August 13, 2026

Lolita’s Gelato: Italian Gelato in Santorini, Greece

A tiny gelateria in Oia became much more than a place to stop for something sweet.

August 13, 2026

Borgo Santo Pietro and the Rise of Luxury Borgos in Italy

Italy’s historic villages are giving travelers a new way to experience the country.

August 13, 2026

Nonna’s Zuppa dell’Orto: Italian Summer Vegetable Soup

Inspired by the way Nonna cooked, this comforting summer soup celebrates the beauty of simple, seasonal cooking.

August 13, 2026

How to Make Danielle Caminiti’s Savory Pesto French Toast

Fresh from her appearance on Food Network's "100 Cooks," Danielle Caminiti shares her recipe for a savory French toast boosted by pesto.

August 13, 2026

The Only Dish I Know How to Cook: Pasta Frittata

One summer outside Bologna turned leftover spaghetti into the one dish she never forgot how to make.

August 12, 2026