When you think of a global fashion icon and award-winning actress like Zendaya, you might imagine she spends her evenings dining on elaborate, five-course meals. Between starring in blockbusters like ‘Dune’ and ‘Challengers’ or preparing for her upcoming film ‘The Drama’, her schedule is undeniably packed. Yet, when it comes to dessert, her go-to choice is refreshingly relatable and deliciously bold.
Zendaya has long been vocal about her obsession with a specific classic: Haagen-Dazs coffee ice cream. It is a flavor that hits that perfect nostalgia note while offering a sophisticated, punchy caffeine kick. While she is known for her unique “talent” of biting directly into her ice cream with her teeth, you do not need nerves of steel to enjoy this flavor profile at home.
The beauty of a coffee-centric dessert lies in the balance of bitterness and sugar. To take Zendaya’s favorite pint to the next level, we are looking at the Affogato. It is the ultimate “lazy” luxury dessert that feels like it belongs in a high-end bistro but takes less than five minutes to assemble in your own kitchen.
The Ingredients
You only need two primary components to make this star-quality treat, but quality is everything here.
scoops of premium coffee or vanilla bean ice cream (Haagen-Dazs is the celebrity choice here).
scoops of premium coffee or vanilla bean ice cream (Haagen-Dazs is the celebrity choice here).
shot ( ounces) of hot, strong espresso or very concentrated cold brew.
shot ( ounces) of hot, strong espresso or very concentrated cold brew.
Optional: Shaved dark chocolate or a pinch of flaky sea salt for garnish.
Optional: Shaved dark chocolate or a pinch of flaky sea salt for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, place your serving glass or small bowl in the freezer for about minutes. A chilled vessel prevents the ice cream from melting into a puddle the second the coffee hits it, maintaining that gorgeous “melt-y” texture.
Scoop two generous rounds of the ice cream into the chilled glass. If you want to channel Zendaya’s favorite profile, use a deep coffee-flavored ice cream to double down on the roasted notes.
Prepare your espresso or concentrate. If you do not have an espresso machine, a moka pot or a very strong brew from a French press works beautifully.
Slowly pour the hot coffee directly over the cold ice cream. Watch as the edges begin to soften and create a thick, silky sauce that coats every spoonful.
Tips for the Perfect Bite
If you want to add a bit of texture without needing to “bite” your ice cream like a pro, top the dish with crushed espresso beans or a drizzle of salted caramel. The salt helps cut through the richness of the dairy and highlights the floral notes of the coffee.
For those who prefer a dairy-free lifestyle, this recipe translates perfectly with a creamy oat milk or coconut-based vanilla frozen dessert. The fats in the plant-based milk emulsify with the coffee just as well as traditional cream.
Why You Will Love It
This dessert is perfect for anyone who wants a sophisticated end to a meal without the hassle of baking. It is chic, energizing, and carries the seal of approval from one of the world’s biggest stars. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just settling in for a movie marathon, this coffee creation is a total scene-stealer.
Give this elevated take on a classic a try tonight. It is the easiest way to bring a little red-carpet luxury into your living room, one delicious scoop at a time.
