The word affogato means “drowned” in Italian; affogato al caffè is the name of a popular dessert in which hot espresso is poured over gelato just before it is eaten. The bitterness of the espresso acts as a pleasant counterpoint to the sweet creaminess of the ice cream. Liqueur intensifies the overall flavor. If you prefer, substitute very strong brewed coffee for the espresso.

Ingredients

　　1 pint best-quality coffee ice cream or gelato

　　4 ounces liqueur, such as sambuca, amaretto, or Frangelico (optional)

　　4 demitasse cups freshly brewed espresso

　　Just before serving, scoop the ice cream into 4 small bowls or large coffee cups. Divide the liqueur among 4 small glasses, if using; serve the liqueur and espresso alongside each bowl, and let each person pour them over the ice cream.

　　Reprinted with permission from The Martha Stewart Living Cookbook: The New Classics by Martha Stewart Living Magazine, copyright © 2007. Published by Clarkson Potter, a division of The Crown Publishing Group.Buy the full book from Amazon.