Coffee Affogato Recipe: A Cold Brew Float

Starbucks’ adult version of the classic root beer float is exactly what you think it is—a truly ideal pick-me-up for an afternoon slump.

All you need: a scoop of rich, vanilla bean-flecked ice cream and about eight ounces of cold brew coffee. Or kick it up a notch by swapping the cold brew for freshly brewed espresso for an affogato. The term translates to “drowned” in Italian, which is exactly what happens to the ice cream as piping hot espresso is drizzled over the top. Whether you choose to go affogato-style or cold brew float, the result is a decadent, caffeinated dream—and so easy to make.

This coconut milk–based recipe is perfect for dairy-free eaters, and it makes an excellent replacement for conventional vanilla ice cream. Plus, coconut milk contains medium chain triglycerides, which have been shown to boost metabolism and energy levels.

Are we justifying putting ice cream in your coffee and calling it healthy? Maybe … (you’re welcome).

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Coffee Affogato, A Cold Brew Float

Recipe Details

Yield: 4 servings
Active Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Recipe Ingredients

For the coconut ice cream:

• 2 vanilla beans
• 27 ounces coconut cream
• 8 egg yolks
• 1 cup sugar
• Pinch large flake sea salt

Special equipment: ice cream maker

For the float or affogato
16 ounces of cold brew coffee or 2-4 ounces of hot espresso (depending on desired strength)

Recipe Instructions

Make the coconut ice cream

1. Slice vanilla beans lengthwise, then scrape out seeds with a sharp paring knife.
2. Add beans and seeds to coconut cream in a medium-sized saucepan.
3. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then cover, turn off heat, and let infuse for 15 minutes.
4. Remove beans and keep mixture warm over low heat.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together yolks and sugar until light and fluffy.
6. Gradually pour in warm coconut cream mixture, whisking constantly.
7. Stir in salt.
8. Return mixture to pot and cook, stirring constantly, over low heat until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
9. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and chill in the fridge at least 1 hour.
10. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
11. Transfer to a parchment-lined metal container or loaf pan to store in freezer.

Assemble the float or affogato

• For float: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in the bottom of a tall glass. Pour 8 to 16 ounces of cold brewed coffee over, depending on how strong you’d like your drink. Serve with a straw.
• For affogato: Use about one scoop of vanilla ice cream to every ounce of espresso. Place ice cream to a highball glass, and pour freshly brewed (hot!) espresso over the top.

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Coffee Affogato / Cold Brew Float Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 4 servings).

Serving Size	1 dessert drink
Calories	≈ 340 kcal
Protein	≈ 4 g
Carbs	≈ 35 g
Sugar	≈ 28 g
Fiber	≈ 1 g
Fat	≈ 20 g

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Variations & Tips for Making a Coffee Affogato / Cold Brew Float

• Espresso version: Use freshly brewed espresso instead of cold brew for a warm affogato effect.
• Vegan twist: Use full-fat coconut cream or plant-based ice cream if you want a richer dairy-free base.
• Flavored add-ins: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or espresso powder into the ice cream base for extra flavor depth.
• Stronger coffee flavor: Use double-strength cold brew or reduce dilution to make the coffee note more prominent.
• Chocolate drip: Drizzle melted dark chocolate (vegan or standard) inside the glass before adding ice cream and coffee.

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Best Pairings for Your Float

• Dark chocolate pieces or chocolate shavings — accentuates the coffee and cream flavors.
• Shortbread or biscotti — crunchy texture you can dip.
• Salted caramel sauce — drizzle over top for indulgent sweetness.
• Espresso shot on the side — for those who like extra caffeine after dessert.
• Fresh berries (raspberries or strawberries) — bright, tart counterbalance.

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Popular Times for A Coffee Affogato / Cold Brew Float

• Dinner parties — elegant dessert you can serve quickly.
• Summer brunch or café events — cold, refreshing, indulgent treat.
• After-meal dessert at restaurants — classic form for a refined finish.
• Holiday gatherings — a twist on coffee desserts for festive menus.
• Casual get-togethers or coffee tastings — dessert meets beverage for a special treat.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont