Pumpkin spice affogato is a cozy and creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and espresso. This treat is not only a warming delight for fall but also a fun twist on traditional affogato.
This recipe targets common issues like weak pumpkin spice flavor, unclear gelato preparation steps, and insufficient serving suggestions for Pumpkin Spice Affogato.
I remember making this during a chilly evening when friends dropped by unexpectedly. The challenge was figuring out how to whip up something special with little notice, and this pumpkin spice affogato came to the rescue. I loved how the warm espresso met the chilled gelato, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its comfort and simplicity. With just about 45 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a warm, inviting dessert that outshines plain affogato. It’ll quickly become a go-to for those cozy gatherings when everyone craves something sweet and comforting.
If you want to keep your guests happy, serve this alongside my Toasted Coconut Marshmallows for an extra special touch!
Table of contents
Dietary Considerations
- This recipe is gluten-free as it contains no wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing ingredients.
- The recipe is not dairy-free due to milk and whipped cream in the ingredients.
- This pumpkin spice affogato is unsuitable for vegan diets because it includes milk and whipped cream.
- The recipe does not meet keto or low-carb diets due to pumpkin puree and milk carbohydrates.
- The recipe is nut-free since none of the ingredients contain nuts or nut derivatives.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Seasonal Comfort Pumpkin spice affogato captures the essence of fall. The warm spices in the gelato, like cinnamon and nutmeg, stir up cozy memories of chilly evenings and festive gatherings.
- Rich and Creamy Texture The blend of whole milk and heavy cream creates a satisfyingly smooth gelato. That delightful creaminess pairs beautifully with the boldness of freshly brewed espresso for a harmonious experience.
- Make-Ahead Convenience Preparing the pumpkin spice gelato in advance means you can impress guests with minimal last-minute work. Just store it in the freezer and serve it up when you’re ready!
- Personal Touch This recipe allows you to embrace your creativity. Feel free to experiment with different espresso types or flavors, giving each serving a unique twist with every preparation.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Affogato
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cool Time: Overnight
- Cook Time: Minimal
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning, Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious Pumpkin Spice Affogato recipe combining creamy gelato with rich espresso. Perfect for fall!
Ingredients
- ½ cup (120 ml) pumpkin puree, 100% pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- Pinch kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, pure
- 1 cup (200 g) white sugar, divided
- 4 large egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons dried ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- Additional 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend for gelato flavor reinforcement
Instructions
- Step 1: In the first bowl, combine ½ cup pumpkin puree, 1 cup whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, a pinch of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons dried ground ginger, 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 teaspoon ground allspice, and ⅓ cup (about 67 g) of the white sugar. Whisk this mixture until smooth and the sugar is nearly dissolved with no lumps present.
- Step 2: In a second bowl, whisk together the 4 large egg yolks and the remaining ⅔ cup (about 133 g) sugar until the mixture lightens in color to pale yellow and becomes smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Slowly pour the milk and pumpkin mixture into the egg yolk mixture while stirring continuously. This will create a custard base. Continuous stirring prevents the egg yolks from cooking too quickly and becoming grainy.
- Step 4: Place the combined custard mixture in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes. Chilling improves flavor melding and helps achieve creamy gelato texture.
- Step 5: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream or gelato machine. Churn according to your machine’s instructions for about 20-30 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to a soft-serve consistency.
- Step 6: Transfer the churned gelato to a freezer-safe airtight container. Smooth the surface, seal tightly, and freeze overnight for best flavor and texture. Storing airtight prevents freezer burn.
- Step 7: Just before serving, brew one shot of fresh hot espresso using your preferred espresso maker. Ensure the espresso is freshly brewed for optimal flavor and temperature.
- Step 8: Place one scoop of the pumpkin spice gelato in a heat-proof mug. Immediately pour the fresh hot espresso over the gelato. The warm espresso will soften the gelato slightly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve promptly.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store gelato in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day; avoid heat or direct sunlight to maintain texture.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate gelato in an airtight container for up to 3 days; thaw slightly before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze gelato in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- If the gelato mixture appears grainy after whisking, whisk continuously for 5 minutes to dissolve sugar fully and smooth the texture.
- Ensure your ice cream maker’s bowl is fully frozen before churning; if thickening takes longer than 20 minutes, this may be the cause.
- If gelato is too soft after freezing overnight, stir in 1 tablespoon powdered sugar and refreeze to improve firmness.
- Brew espresso immediately before serving to ensure it is hot enough to melt the gelato properly.
- Protect gelato from air exposure by sealing airtight to avoid ice crystals and maintain a creamy consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Ingredient Notes
- Espresso: Use freshly brewed espresso for a rich, bold flavor that contrasts nicely with pumpkin spice. A quality espresso maker can make all the difference!
- Pumpkin puree: Opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. It’s smoother and gives that homemade vibe. Brands like Libby’s work great here!
- Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess that balances the espresso. If you’re looking for a lighter option, oat milk creates a nice texture too. Avoid skim milk for a richer experience!
- Pumpkin spice: Use a high-quality pumpkin spice blend for the best flavor. This adds that warm, cozy mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove that defines this dessert.
- Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile. Try using a fresh bottle, as imitation ones can lack depth. It’s a small but important detail!
- Whipped cream: Freshly whipped cream takes this affogato to another level. Whip it yourself for an airy texture, making sure it’s not too stiff for easy melting!
- Chocolate shavings: Dark chocolate shavings add a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the pumpkin spice. Go for semi-sweet for a nice balance; quality chocolate makes all the difference!
Recipe Tips
- If your gelato mixture appears too grainy, whisk continuously for 5 minutes to help dissolve the sugar and create a smoother consistency.
- When churning the gelato, if it doesn’t thicken within 20 minutes, check that your ice cream maker bowl is fully frozen for optimal texture.
- If the gelato seems too soft after freezing overnight, stir in 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar before returning it to the freezer for better firmness.
- When the espresso isn’t hot enough, brew it immediately before serving; this ensures a warm pour over the gelato, enhancing flavor.
- If you notice the gelato develops ice crystals, transfer it to an airtight container to prevent air exposure and maintain a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve pumpkin spice affogato alongside gingerbread cookies or almond biscotti for a warm, comforting treat. A simple side of spiced apple crisps enhances the seasonal experience.
Use pumpkin spice affogato to make a fall-inspired milkshake or as a drizzle over pancakes. Add it to warm oatmeal topped with nuts and fruits for extra flavor.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added richness. Drizzle with a touch of caramel sauce for sweetness and a festive touch.
Recipe variations
- You can use brewed strong coffee instead of espresso poured over the pumpkin spice gelato for a milder affogato experience that still highlights the pumpkin flavors.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or an extra ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice on top of the affogato scoop before pouring espresso to enhance warm autumn spices.
- Either whole milk or heavy cream can be adjusted when making the gelato base, using less cream for a lighter texture or more for added richness.
- If using this recipe for several servings, multiply the pumpkin puree by ½ cup per person and adjust sugar to maintain sweetness; you may like also pairing it with Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew.
Save This Recipe!
How to Store?
To keep your pumpkin spice affogato fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Room Temperature: Store gelato in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 day. Avoid exposure to heat or sunlight to keep texture.
Refrigeration: Place gelato in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days, allowing it to soften slightly before serving.
Freezing: Freeze gelato in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 10, 15 minutes before serving.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Scones
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Scones
- Pumpkin Oatmeal Scones
- Lemon Lavender Scones
If you enjoyed this Pumpkin Spice Affogato or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. I appreciate taking time to read about this recipe, thank you!
