Matcha Affogato Recipe

Recipe at a Glance

One serving, 5 minutes total.

What You Need

- 1.5 tsp (3g) ceremonial grade matcha - 2 oz (60ml) hot water at 175F (80C) - 1 to 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (or matcha ice cream for a double matcha version) - Optional: a pinch of sea salt, white chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of honey

How to Make It

1. Chill your serving glass in the freezer for 5 minutes (optional but recommended). 2. Scoop 1 to 2 scoops of ice cream into the chilled glass. 3. Sift 1.5 tsp (3g) matcha into a small bowl. 4. Add 2 oz of 175F water and whisk vigorously in a W motion for 20 to 30 seconds until frothy and concentrated. 5. Pour the hot matcha shot directly over the ice cream. 6. Serve immediately -- the ice cream will begin melting right away, which is part of the experience.

Tips for the Best Result

Use ceremonial grade matcha. The affogato is a simple preparation where matcha quality is front and center. Ceremonial grade produces a sweeter, more complex flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream.

Use more matcha than a standard drink (3g instead of 2g). The concentrated matcha shot needs to stand up to the richness of the ice cream.

Serve immediately. The hot-cold contrast is the defining feature of an affogato. Do not let it sit.

Vanilla ice cream is the classic pairing. Matcha ice cream creates a double matcha version. Coconut ice cream is an excellent dairy-free option.

Variations

Double matcha affogato: Use matcha ice cream instead of vanilla for an intensely matcha experience.

Matcha affogato with red bean: Add a spoonful of sweetened red bean paste (anko) alongside the ice cream.

Matcha affogato mocktail: Add a splash of sparkling water after pouring the matcha for a fizzy version.

Salted matcha affogato: Add a small pinch of flaky sea salt over the top -- it enhances both the matcha and the ice cream.