If you love the cozy warmth of fall spices combined with the rich creaminess of gelato and the bold kick of espresso, then you are absolutely going to adore this Pumpkin Spice Affogato Recipe. This delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert brings together pumpkin puree and a perfectly spiced blend to make an irresistibly smooth pumpkin gelato that melts beautifully under a fresh shot of hot espresso. It’s like autumn in a cup, blending comfort and elegance into one unforgettable treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Pumpkin Spice Affogato Recipe is easier than you might think, yet each component plays an essential role in creating its lush texture, perfectly balanced flavor, and inviting color. From the pure pumpkin puree to the aromatic spices and creamy dairy, every bite tells a story of autumn magic.
- ½ cup pumpkin puree: Use 100% pure pumpkin, never pumpkin pie filling, to achieve authentic flavor and texture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the custard base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Essential for that rich, velvety gelato texture.
- Pinch kosher salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup white sugar, divided: Sweetens the gelato while aiding in smooth texture; dividing it helps with mixing.
- 4 large egg yolks: Key for a silky custard gelato base.
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The staple pumpkin spice that gives the gelato that quintessential flavor.
- 2 teaspoons dried ground ginger: Adds a subtle zing that cuts through the richness.
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg: Provides warm, nutty undertones.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves: Imparts a bold, aromatic touch unique to fall.
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice: Rounds out the spice blend with complex earthiness.
- Additional 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend: For reinforcing that signature gelato flavor you crave.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Affogato Recipe
Step 1: Mix Pumpkin and Dairy with Spices
Start by combining the pumpkin puree, whole milk, heavy cream, a pinch of kosher salt, vanilla extract, and the full array of spices including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and about one-third of the sugar into a bowl. Whisk everything until smooth and the sugar almost dissolves to ensure a silky base without lumps. This fragrant mixture will lay the foundation for your luscious pumpkin gelato.
Step 2: Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat your egg yolks with the remaining two-thirds of the sugar until the color lightens to a pale yellow and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for adding richness and body to your gelato’s custard base.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures into Custard Base
Slowly pour the spiced pumpkin milk mixture into the egg yolks, stirring continuously without pause. This gentle mixing prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly, avoiding any graininess and instead creating that perfectly smooth custard that’s essential for the final gelato.
Step 4: Chill the Custard
Once combined, place the custard mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling here gives the flavors time to meld harmoniously and helps create the creamy, dense texture that makes this pumpkin gelato truly special.
Step 5: Churn the Gelato
Transfer the well-chilled custard into your ice cream or gelato maker. Churn according to your machine’s instructions for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. This step is where the magic happens; the cold churning aerates the mixture and transforms it into that irresistible gelato texture.
Step 6: Freeze Overnight
Scoop your gelato into a freezer-safe airtight container, smoothing the surface before sealing it tight. Freeze it overnight to allow the flavors to deepen and the gelato to firm up to the perfect scoopable consistency.
Step 7: Brew the Espresso
Right before serving, brew one freshly pulled shot of espresso. Using hot, fresh espresso is key to creating the delightful temperature contrast that defines an affogato and heightens the complex flavors of your pumpkin spiced gelato.
Step 8: Assemble Your Pumpkin Spice Affogato
Place one generous scoop of the pumpkin spice gelato into a heat-proof mug or bowl, then immediately pour the hot espresso over the top. Watch as the warm espresso gently softens the gelato, melding the flavors into one exquisite, comforting experience.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Affogato Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an inviting finish. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a few toasted pecans for a pleasing crunch and added indulgence. Garnishes elevate the experience and make your affogato look as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
The Pumpkin Spice Affogato Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, mildly sweet accompaniments such as biscotti, almond cookies, or a slice of spiced pound cake. These sides complement the gelato’s rich texture without overpowering its flavor, making for a balanced and satisfying treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your affogato in clear glass cups or vintage coffee mugs to showcase the beautiful swirls between gelato and espresso. For a festive touch, try layering the gelato and espresso in a tall glass or add a cinnamon stick as a stirrer for a charming presentation that is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover gelato in an airtight container in the freezer to prevent it from absorbing unwanted odors and freezer burn. Make sure to press a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface before sealing to help maintain its creamy texture.
Freezing
This pumpkin gelato freezes beautifully, so you can prepare it well in advance and enjoy it at your convenience. Just remember to thaw slightly before serving for the perfect scoopability.
Reheating
Since affogato is best served cold with hot espresso poured over, reheating the gelato is not recommended. If you want a warm dessert, consider warming your coffee or espresso freshly while keeping the gelato chilled until serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
Using 100% pure pumpkin puree is important because canned pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices which can alter the flavor and texture of your gelato. For the most authentic and balanced Pumpkin Spice Affogato Recipe, stick to pure pumpkin puree.
Do I need a gelato machine to make this recipe?
While a gelato or ice cream machine provides the best texture by properly churning and aerating the mixture, you can try a no-churn method by freezing the custard and stirring it every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals, though the texture will be less smooth and creamy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk and coconut cream for the whole milk and heavy cream. Keep in mind the flavor will shift slightly, becoming more coconut-forward, but it can still be delicious.
How long does the gelato keep in the freezer?
Stored properly in an airtight container, your pumpkin spice gelato will maintain its best quality for up to 1 week, though it remains edible beyond that. After a week, ice crystals may develop, affecting texture.
What’s the best espresso to use for affogato?
A freshly brewed, strong espresso works best to cut through the creaminess of the pumpkin gelato and add an enjoyable bitterness that balances the sweet and spicy flavors for a harmonious dessert.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully comforting and sophisticated about this Pumpkin Spice Affogato Recipe that makes it a true seasonal treasure worth trying at home. With simple ingredients lovingly transformed into a creamy, spiced gelato paired with bold espresso, it’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful. Don’t wait for the perfect occasion—go ahead and treat yourself and your friends to this cozy and elegant delight today!
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Pumpkin Spice Affogato Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus overnight freezing
- Yield: 1 serving (about 1 cup gelato with espresso) 1x
Description
This Pumpkin Spice Affogato is a delightful autumn-inspired dessert combining creamy homemade pumpkin spice gelato with a shot of hot espresso. The recipe features a rich custard base infused with traditional pumpkin pie spices and pure pumpkin puree, churned into a smooth gelato that pairs perfectly with the robust flavor of fresh espresso. It’s a comforting treat that balances warm spices, creamy texture, and bold coffee notes for an indulgent seasonal experience.
Ingredients
Gelato Base
- 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
- ⅓ cup (about 67 g) white sugar
- 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
Custard Egg Mixture
- 4 large egg yolks
- ⅔ cup (about 133 g) white sugar
Serving
- 1 shot fresh hot espresso
Instructions
- Mix Pumpkin Spice Gelato Base: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, whole milk, heavy cream, kosher salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, pumpkin pie spice blend, and ⅓ cup sugar. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is almost dissolved without any lumps.
- Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the egg yolks with the remaining ⅔ cup sugar until the mixture lightens to a pale yellow and becomes smooth and creamy, which helps create a rich custard texture.
- Combine Mixtures: Slowly pour the pumpkin and milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while stirring constantly to form a custard base. Continuous stirring ensures the eggs do not cook too quickly and avoids graininess.
- Chill the Custard: Place the combined custard mixture into the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes. This step helps flavor melding and contributes to achieving a creamy gelato texture.
- Churn the Gelato: Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream or gelato machine. Churn according to your machine’s instructions for about 20 to 30 minutes or until it thickens to a soft-serve consistency, indicating the gelato is ready.
- Freeze the Gelato: Transfer the churned gelato to a freezer-safe airtight container, smooth the surface, seal it tightly, and freeze overnight for best flavor and texture. This prevents freezer burn and improves firmness.
- Brew Espresso: Just before serving, prepare one shot of fresh hot espresso using your preferred espresso machine, ensuring it’s freshly brewed to maximize flavor and aroma.
- Serve the Pumpkin Spice Affogato: Place one scoop of the prepared pumpkin spice gelato in a heatproof mug or serving glass, immediately pour the hot espresso over the top, allowing the gelato to soften slightly and merge flavors. Serve promptly to enjoy the perfect balance of warm espresso and creamy autumn spice gelato.
Notes
- Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid added sugars and spices disrupting the balance.
- Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice blend according to your spice preference.
- Ensure proper chilling of the custard base to help achieve the best gelato texture.
- Use a high-quality espresso for the best flavor contrast.
- If you don’t have a gelato or ice cream machine, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow container and stir every 30 minutes until firm, although texture may differ.
- Serve immediately after pouring espresso as the gelato will melt quickly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (churning time)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: American
