Espresso Martini Affogato
Two of the world's most reliable adult pleasures crashed into a single coupe — cold espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and a slowly melting scoop of vanilla gelato.
The espresso martini is loud. The affogato is quiet. Together they're somehow both — sweet and bitter and creamy in the same sip.
Serve it after dinner instead of dessert, or instead of coffee, or technically instead of both. Nobody will be mad.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or Mr. Black)
- 2 oz fresh, cooled espresso
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 small scoops vanilla bean gelato
- Ice
- A few coffee beans, to garnish
Instructions
- 1
Chill two coupe glasses in the freezer for at least 10 minutes.
- 2
Combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake hard for 15 seconds — you want a thick foam on top.
- 3
Place one small scoop of gelato into each chilled coupe.
- 4
Double-strain the espresso martini over the gelato.
- 5
Garnish with 3 coffee beans on the foam (or on the gelato as it melts). Serve immediately with a small spoon.
Tips
- → Fresh, hot espresso doesn't shake into proper foam. Pull it 5 minutes early and let it cool.
- → Use real vanilla bean gelato — the flecks matter, both for looks and flavor.
- → Make it a mocktail: skip the vodka and Kahlúa, double the espresso, and add a splash of cream and a dash of vanilla.
FAQ
Can I use instant coffee?
In a pinch — 2 oz of strong, cooled instant coffee works. The foam won't be as luxurious, though.
What if I don't have a cocktail shaker?
Use a mason jar with a tight lid. Same shake, same result.
Is one enough for dessert?
For two people, yes. For one… also yes, eventually.
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