Sometimes you just want to feel like you are strolling the streets of Italy for the afternoon. This refreshing, but not too sweet dessert cocktail can make you feel like you have been transported to an open air cafe on the cobbled streets of Rome. A trip to Italy not in the budget this month? Even if you are just sitting in your backyard on a sunny Saturday you can still enjoy a decadent Espresso Martini Dessert. The Espresso Martini Affogato is a perfect pick me up or post dinner dessert you can whip up in your kitchen or home bar with just a few ingredients.
What does Affogato Mean?
Affogato comes from the Italian word affogare, which translates in English to "drowned". Essentially Affogato is basically gelato or ice cream over which espresso has been poured over. Is this a drink or a dessert you ask? Good question, it depends who you ask. What I do know is an Espresso Martini Affogato melds the taste of coffee with a creamy vanilla finish. Not too sweet and not too harsh, this Espresso Cocktail is a refreshing treat. According to A Couple Cooks the Espresso Martini itself was invented by a bartender at the Soho Brasserie in London in 1983. This creamy twist on the traditional martini will wake you up and satisfy your sweet tooth after a rich meal.
What is Kahlua?
Kahlua is a name brand of coffee liquor made in Mexico. Invented in 1936 by Pedro Domecq, Kahlua contains rum, vanilla bean, sugar, and coffee. Kahlua gained popularity in the 1950s with the Black Russian Cocktail. Currently Kahlua contains 20% ABV and is enjoyed in many varieties of cocktails. For this cocktail recipe you can use any coffee liquor, the brand of liquor is not an essential part, merely a personal preference.
Let's Make an Espresso Martini Affogato
This coffee martini is simple to make and only requires a few basic ingredients. You will need some espresso, vodka, a coffee liquor, and a vanilla ice cream. What if you don't have an espresso machine? Do not fret, though traditionally this recipe requires a fresh espresso, not everyone has access to one. Honestly, to save time I often just use a dark roast pre-made iced coffee, your martini will still be rich and delicious. I used whipped vodka in this recipe, but plain or vanilla vodka is also delicious. I would definitely recommend a cocktail shaker to combine and chill your ingredients. Once you have gathered your ingredients, fill your shaker with ice. Next you pour the espresso, vodka, and Kahlua into your shaker and shake until cold and combined. Finally pour the martini gently over a scoop of ice cream in your favorite martini glass, and you have an elegant and indulgent treat.
Impress your girlfriends on girls night, serve as a dessert at a dinner party, or simply enjoy this coffee treat by yourself.
