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Tart Cherry Affogato

Vanilla ice cream topped with warm tart cherry compote and a shot of hot espresso.
Print Recipe
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Cherry Compote

  • 2 cups frozen tart cherries
  • 2 tablespoons water or fresh orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For Each Affogato

  • 2 generous scoops vanilla ice cream
  • 1 freshly brewed shot of espresso
  • 2 –3 tablespoons warm tart cherry compote

Optional garnish

  • Shaved dark chocolate
  • Crushed amaretti cookies
  • Extra lemon zest

Instructions
 

  • In a small saucepan, combine the frozen tart cherries with the water (or orange juice).
  • Cook over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices.
  • Stir in the brown sugar and lemon zest.
  • Allow everything to simmer for another few minutes until the juices become glossy and slightly syrupy.
  • Remove from the heat and let cool for just a few minutes while you prepare the espresso.
  • Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream into your favorite dessert glass or small bowl.
  • Spoon a few tablespoons of the warm tart cherry compote over the top.
  • Slowly pour a freshly brewed shot of hot espresso directly over the ice cream.
  • If you'd like, finish with shaved dark chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed amaretti cookies. Serve immediately.

Notes

Strong brewed coffee can replace espresso. Compote keeps in the fridge up to 5 days; reheat before serving.