Decadent Cherry Coded Affogato Recipe Easy Homemade Dark Espresso Dessert
A rich yet refreshing affogato dessert combining bold dark espresso with cherry-infused vanilla ice cream, creating a luscious and balanced treat perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ounces (60 ml) freshly brewed dark espresso per serving
- 1–2 scoops vanilla ice cream per serving
- 1 cup (150 g) pitted fresh cherries (or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar
- Zest of half a lemon
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
- Optional: dark chocolate shavings or espresso beans for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup pitted cherries, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/4 cup water, and lemon zest from half a lemon. Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cherries soften and syrup thickens slightly. Add a splash of water if too thick. Set aside to cool.
- Brew the Dark Espresso: While the syrup cools, brew fresh espresso—2 ounces per serving. Use a bold, dark roast for best flavor. If using moka pot or strong coffee, aim for a concentrated brew.
- Scoop the Ice Cream: Place 1-2 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into a serving glass or bowl.
- Assemble the Affogato: Spoon a tablespoon or two of cherry syrup over the ice cream, letting some cherries rest on top. Carefully pour hot espresso over the ice cream and syrup, allowing the ice cream to melt and swirl.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings or a few espresso beans if desired. Serve immediately with a small spoon.
Notes
Let the espresso cool for 30 seconds before pouring to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly. Prepare cherry syrup and espresso ahead but assemble just before serving. Use fresh ground dark roast beans for best flavor. For dairy-free version, substitute vanilla ice cream with coconut or almond milk-based ice cream. Avoid instant coffee for authentic flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1-2 scoop
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 40
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: affogato, cherry syrup, dark espresso, vanilla ice cream, easy dessert, coffee dessert, homemade affogato, cherry dessert