I. What is Affogato?
Affogato is a simple yet refined Italian dessert that combines smooth, cold gelato (or ice cream) with hot espresso poured directly over the top, creating an enticing melting effect.
In Italian, it means “drowned: submerged”. It is not only a dessert, but also a way of enjoying Italian coffee after a meal, popular in gelaterias and cafés since the 20th century.
This dessert is surprisingly simple: one scoop of Gelato (usually vanilla) “drowned” in a shot of hot espresso.
Simply put:
Cold ice cream + hot coffee = Affogato, the addictive dessert loved by millions.
The contrast between “hot - cold” and “bitter - sweet” has made this dessert a major drinks and dessert trend.
II. The origins of authentic Italian Affogato: refined and full of “artistic flair”
Affogato appeared in Italy in the 19th century, when people would commonly pour espresso over gelato to create a quick, light and aromatic dessert.
Today, it is popular in countries around the world, from Italy to the US, South Korea, Japan and Vietnam.
The interesting thing is:
No one knows exactly who created Affogato.
But everyone agrees: if Italy has a “national dessert”, it is Affogato.
III. Why are young people so “obsessed” with Affogato?
1. A perfect look for social media
Affogato is highly “cinematic” because when hot espresso is poured over gelato, the ice cream melts slowly, creating an incredibly beautiful “melting shot”.
2. A simple recipe that anyone can make
All you need are 2 ingredients:
Gelato (or ice cream)
Espresso
Gen Z likes new experiences but does not want anything complicated → Affogato is the perfect “easy recipe”.
3. A delicious balance suited to Vietnamese tastes
Mild bitterness from the coffee
Gentle sweetness from the gelato
A lingering aroma
A smooth finish
It is especially well suited to the coffee - milk - ice cream combination that Vietnamese consumers are already familiar with.
4. Suitable for any time of day
✔ Morning: a replacement for traditional coffee
✔ Afternoon: a quick, light dessert
✔ Evening: a “chill” drink after work
IV. Affogato variations currently trending on TikTok
1. Caramel Affogato
Add caramel sauce → smooth and sweet, with a buttery aroma.
2. Matcha Affogato
Pour hot matcha instead of espresso → a major trend among young people in Korea & Vietnam.
3. Sea Salt Affogato
Sea salt gelato + espresso → an addictive salty-sweet flavour.
4. Affogato with fruit Gelato
Unusual, refreshing and trending.
5. Affogato with alcohol (for adults)
Add a splash of liqueur such as amaretto: elegant, chilled and full of “Italian flair”.
V. Why has Affogato become an F&B goldmine in 2025?
Despite its simplicity, Affogato has high profit margins and is easy to sell.
1. Low ingredient costs
All you need is gelato + espresso
→ Profit of 200–300% depending on the business model.
2. Extremely simple setup
No kitchen or complicated equipment is needed.
3. Easy to turn into a “signature drink”
Many cafés have increased their revenue by adding Affogato to the menu.
4. Loved all year round
Not seasonal → sold 365 days a year.
5. Suitable for every business model
Café
Small kiosk
Food cart
Dessert shop
Restaurant
Newly launched F&B brand
VI. Baby Boss Gelato: the key to a delicious Affogato
Want Affogato that's fragrant, melt-in-the-mouth and smooth, just like in Italy?
The gelato must be low-fat, smooth and made from fresh ingredients—not industrial ice cream.
Baby Boss Gelato is the top choice because it is:
Made from fresh fruit and authentic Italian ingredients
Smooth and silky, without being too sweet
Certified to ISO 22000:2018 for food safety
Available in many flavours suitable for Affogato: vanilla, caramel, matcha, sea salt, coconut, tiramisu…
The gelato itself is what makes Affogato worth the money.
Contact Baby Boss for advice on business models and the hottest dishes of winter 2025!
Receive free ice cream samples and advice on business cooperation with Baby Boss
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