Originally this was going to be a hazelnut affogato with hazelnut ice cream but it happened to be a MAJOR fail. So, what’s one solution for a fail? Pour booze on it. I don’t recommend this for all things, all the time–that could turn dangerous–but sometimes a little pour can make things better and in the case of this White Russian Affogato, it definitely did.
I think the first time I learned of affogato was when I worked at Starbucks in college. People would order their frappucinos “affogato-style” which just meant we’d pour a shot on top. Affogato apparently means “drowned” and essentially you drown a scoop of cool ice cream in hot espresso. The result is somehow even better than the sum of its parts. I mean, I already love ice cream and espresso, so the combination of the two is an absolute favorite. I think it makes a great dessert for hosting dinner–you can scale it up or down and scoop the ice cream into cups well in advance and store in the freezer. Plus, you’ll look fancy as hell whisking out of the kitchen with a tray of these with fresh shots of espresso on the side for pouring over tableside. To up the fancy factor, let’s add booze. A couple White Russian things I’ve been seeing got me craving that flavor combination, specifically this cocktail and this ice cream. So, I had to do Kahlua and vodka, just like the classic White Russian cocktail, because it’s just so dang good and really not that far from the actual drink. Instead of cream we’re using ice cream. It’s a no-brainer.
- 1-2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- ½ ounce vodka
- 1 ounce Kahlua
- 1 shot espresso
- Scoop the ice cream into a glass or bowl. Pour the vokda, Kahlua, and espresso over the top. Enjoy!
There’s not really a substitute for the Kahlua and vodka, but you could certainly leave them out if you’d like a non-alcoholic version.
I think if I show this to my guy he’ll freak out. Ice cream and espresso might be his two favorite things ever. I’m going to put this in my back pocket and save it as a surprise for a special day. Thank you for the inspiration!
All over this. The name alone sounds amazing. Affogato is such a fancy seeming treat (considering how easy it is)!!
I always feel that not enough people know about affogato, I always get confused looks when I order it. So glad I came across this recipe as it is one of my favourite desserts
“pour some booze on it” is basically my solution for all problems, too. such a beautiful affogato. If that word means “drowned,” I want to drown in it.
Major yumness! This sounds like just what I need to make for the weekend!
Thanks, Tori!
This looks so good. And so simple too. Your post made me laugh. Booze can totally solve many things 🙂
Truth!
omygaaah this sound so delicious and smart. i love white russians and i love affogatos. killer combo!
Thank youuuu!
Well, I happen to think this is the best ‘fail’ in the world. What a dreamy combination! You are so creative 🙂 <3 xoxo
When I was in college there was a bar that made White Russians with ice cream instead of cream, blended like a milk shake. Amazing.
That sounds AMAZING.
If you need anyone to taste test, I’m local to you! Alberta exit, I5.. You can’t miss my place!! Lol I am dying to try the White Russian Affogato, I don’t buy or drink Kahlua brand anymore, its changed to rum and a coffee liqueur, I don’t drink rum. Coffee liqueur, yes! And I’ve also got Stoli Salted Karamel vodka in my freezer!
Lol, good to know!
Wow! This looks unbelievable! All my favorite things in one spot! Definitely trying this VERY soon!
What gorgeous photography Cindy! This looks amazing!!