Begin by selecting four elegant glass individual serving dishes so that your affogato looks as good as it tastes. We like either tall, transparent glasses served with long spoons, martini glasses with short spoons or any other pretty dessert dishes you own.

Brew extra strong coffee in a coffee pot by using more than the regular amount of coffee and less than the normal amount of water to ensure it has a strong flavor. For an even stronger flavor you can make Italian espresso machine shots or espresso coffee in a moka pot. Keep the coffee in a metal or glass container with a cover or in a thermos so that it stays hot until you use it.

Place one large scoop or two smaller scoops of vanilla gelato or ice cream into each individual dish.

Pour two shots of espresso or a 1/2 cup of coffee directly over the gelato.

You can garnish with your favorite topping such as a drizzling of chocolate or caramel syrup or a sprinkling of chocolate shavings, crushed nuts or a dollop of whipped cream and then serve immediately.