This Is the Coolest Way to Drink a White Russian

Happy National Kahlua Day! If you don’t have a bottle of this coffee-flavored liqueur lingering in your pantry, consider this your excuse to run out and get one. (I’ll wait.)

Got your Kahlua? Great. It’s time to make a White Russian, affogato-style.

What is an affogato, you ask? It’s an Italian dessert (affogato means “drowned” in Italian) of vanilla gelato or ice cream topped with a shot of espresso. It’s quite possibly one of the easiest yet most impressive desserts you can make. And it’s endlessly customizable! Try it with tea, Scotch, or, in this case, Kahlua.

To make a standard White Russian cocktail, you need Kahlua, vodka, and cream. This affogato recipe riffs on that basic combination, keeping the traditional Kahlua and vodka, but adding espresso and swapping out the cream for vanilla ice cream instead.

If you don’t have access to an espresso machine at home, the author notes that you can substitute an ounce of strongly brewed coffee here instead. But if you are in the market for a new espresso machine (hello, morning lattes!), Apartment Therapy has a great post that breaks down the different types and lists a few of their favorites at different price points.

Once you’re ready to make the affogato, you simply add one or two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a glass or bowl; pour a half-ounce of vodka, an ounce of Kahlua, and a shot of espresso over the ice cream; and dive in!

It really is that simple. This is a great recipe for entertaining, as it feels special but doesn’t require a lot of effort on your part. It’s also great for a regular ol’ Monday night (like tonight), when you want a sweet treat and a nightcap all in one. Just don’t drink it too close to your bedtime!

→ Get the Recipe: White Russian Affogato from Hungry Girl Por Vida