Afternoon Affogato (Recipes: Dulce de Leche Ice Cream and Affogato)

Affogato is another dish my son wanted me to show him how to make. It is a dish that simple, delicious, and something he can serve if he wants to impress someone, especially if he makes the ice cream.

We usually have Affogato in the afternoon because of the espresso. Although it is only one shot of espresso, it is enough to keep us up. But, it is a great afternoon pick me up!

Dulce de Leche Ice Cream

This recipe is originally from Gourmet Magazine. It's been a family favorite for years. 

Ingredients:

2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 pound dulce de leche (about 1 2/3 cups)
1/8 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 
3/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted (optional)

Preparation:

Bring milk and cream just to a boil in a 3-quart heavy bottom saucepan over moderate heat, then remove from heat and whisk in the dulce de leche dissolved. Whisk in vanilla and transfer to a metal bowl. Quick-chill by putting bowl in a larger bowl of ice and cold water and stirring occasionally until cold, 15 to 20 minutes.*

Freeze mixture in ice cream maker until almost, then fold in pecans if using. 

Transfer ice cream to an airtight container and put in freezer to harden, at least 1 hour.**

Makes about 1 1/2 quarts.

*I put the bowl in my chest freezer for about 1/2 hour instead of ice and cold water.

**I find it takes several hours for the ice cream to harden. 

Note: My son thinks that a bit of salt would be good, maybe about 1/4 teaspoon. I think he is right, next time we will try it. 

Affogato

Place a one large scoop or two small scoops of very cold ice cream*(Dulce de Leche Ice Cream is really good for this dish, but vanilla, chocolate, hazelnut, and coffee ice cream are all good as well) into a chilled small dish, wide mouth small glass, or coffee cup. Pour a shot of freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee over the ice cream and serve immediately, or serve the espresso or coffee on the side and have guests pour it over their ice cream themselves. Garnish with grated or shaved chocolate, and/or toasted pecans or almonds, if desired. 

*Tip: Ice cream can be scooped out ahead of time onto a baking sheet and put in the freezer until serving time. This will assure that the ice cream is frozen solid and won't melt as fast when the hot espresso or coffee is poured over. 

Enjoy!