Peppermint Affogato

While taking down our window wreath, putting away Frank Sinatra's Christmas album and downing our last bit of eggnog, we are left with an abundance of candy canes. While there are only so many sheets of peppermint bark you can make and cookies to bake, we start brainstorming ways to use the red and white spiraled confections in a sweet and soothing dessert.

While traveling through Italy, we remember sitting at a café on the bank of the Arno River in Florence in the mood for an indulgent afternoon sweet. Our charming waiter suggested affogato (“drowned in coffee”) which traditionally is a scoop of gelato with a shot of hot espresso poured on top. The espresso cooled slightly when it hit the cold gelato and created a melted medley of swirled flavors.

Back in our cozy North End apartment, we decide to crush our collection of candy canes and sprinkle the flurried bits atop our version of affogato. To add a kick, we top the overflowing liquid with a bit of peppermint schnapps. We spoon and sip our elegant float-a nightcap and dessert all in one.

Peppermint Affogato

1 large scoop vanilla ice cream (we use Toscanini’s French Vanilla)
2 oz brewed espresso (we use Lavazza)
1/2 oz peppermint schnapps
Crushed candy canes

Place the scoop of vanilla ice cream in a coffee cup or small glass bowl. Pour in the shot of espresso and peppermint schnapps. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top and serve. Serves 1.

The minty, boozey treat is simply satisfying and a perfect go-to dessert for any last-minute gathering.