Try this Coffee Drink Before Summer is Over! Hint: It's Not Pumpkin Spice

in Aug 27, 2024
What is better than an espresso after dining al fresco this summer? See below...

Have you tried an affogato this August? Sounds like 'avocado' - except the 'v' is 'f' and the 'd' is a 't' and it's one of our favorite coffee drinks, especially for dessert on a hot summer day. Speaking of coffee, did you know Starbucks already put Pumpkin Spice Lattes back on the menu? Thanks to some lower than expected revenue reports, or maybe an over-caffeneited marketing team, Starbucks has added the PSL earlier than ever.

Coffee date in Dallas, Texas at Starbucks Reserve (now closed) with an affogato (but you can make it at home!)....
Although we love our cappuccinos, Starbucks has had some less than stellar news stories this month, including the new CEO who was blasted online for commuting from his home in Newport Beach, California to Seattle 3 days a week via the company's private jet.
Savvy Sleepers Luxe Satin Pillowcases- ultra-smooth for hair & skin in the shade 'Serenity' (available in Standard Size, King, Travel & Mini Size) 
We are still in the thick of the hot August Nights enjoying back to school memories already and sneaking power naps on our 'Serenity' Savvy Sleepers satin pillowcases. There is something about taking a 20 minute nap on our luxe satin without the bedhead with the cool gentle breeze from our Lasko fan that is ultra-satisfying before rushing out to meetings or carpool. Okay, now back to the caffeine talk...
Starbucks affogato served on a little wood platter and with a small glass of sparkling water. 

So here is one of our favorite desserts with coffee that they do actually serve at the Starbucks Reserve locations. Actually, they offer a Starbucks flight of affogatos (so fancy)! But save yourself the cash, these were about $6 back in the late 2018's, so you can imagine the price now. All you need to create an affogato at home is an espresso shot and scoop of premium vanilla ice cream. 

PS - Our Vintage Rosé Savvy Scrunchies are Back in Stock! Ultra-smooth to protect against hair breakage and help make messy buns look fuller compared to thin Scrunchies.
First choose a short glass, add a nice (on the smallish side) scoop of ice cream (in Italy they use gelato). Then use your espresso machine (we use Nespresso) but any pod you like will work or espresso shot, and pour it immediately over the ice-cream! Serve with a spoon. Enjoy. 
Speaking of coffee, if you haven't tried our 'Nappuccino' Savvy Sleepers, this is one our classic favorite shades. The Savvy Sleeper shade was inspired after drinking a coffee and taking a Power Nap before heading back to the office, and even if a little foundation smudged on it, it wasn't noticeable, plus Savvy Sleepers are machine-washable and voted Most Durable by Women's Health Mag! Easy care, so refreshing. Shop the full collection of our luxe satin pillowcases here. Or skip to the Affogato recipe below.

How to Make an Affogato:

Ingredients:

  • 1 scoop of vanilla gelato (or ice cream, but traditionally gelato is used)
  • 1 shot of freshly brewed hot espresso

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Espresso: Brew a fresh shot of espresso using your espresso machine, stovetop Moka pot, or an alternative method if necessary. It’s important that the espresso is hot and strong.
  2. Scoop the Gelato: Place one generous scoop of vanilla gelato into a small glass or dessert cup. If you prefer, you can also use other flavors like hazelnut, chocolate, or coffee for a twist on the classic.
  3. Pour the Espresso: Immediately after brewing, pour the hot espresso over the gelato. The espresso should be poured slowly and directly onto the gelato, partially melting it and creating a creamy, bittersweet dessert.
  4. Serve Immediately: The affogato is best enjoyed right away while the gelato is still cold but slightly melting from the hot espresso. You can serve it with a spoon to enjoy the mix of textures and flavors.

Optional Variations:

  • Toppings: Add a sprinkle of shaved chocolate, a drizzle of liqueur (like amaretto or coffee liqueur), or some crushed nuts for extra flavor.
  • Double Espresso: For a stronger coffee flavor, you can pour a double shot of espresso over the gelato.