Ingredients

For the Chai Concentrate:

  • 2 cups water
  • 4 black tea bags (such as Assam or Darjeeling)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
  • 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground allspice
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Affogato:

  • 2 shots (about 2 oz each) freshly brewed espresso
  • 2 cups chai concentrate (from above)
  • 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (or gelato)
  • 1/4 cup whole milk or cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Espresso machine or stovetop moka pot
  • Heatproof glasses or mugs
  • Ice cream scoop

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chai Concentrate

  1. In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
  2. Add the tea bags, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice.
  3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Remove from heat, stir in brown sugar and vanilla extract, and let steep for 5 minutes.
  5. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a heatproof container. Discard solids.
  6. Let the chai concentrate cool slightly. (Can be refrigerated for up to a week.)

Step 2: Brew the Espresso

  1. Brew 2 shots of espresso using an espresso machine or moka pot.
  2. Keep the espresso hot until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Affogato

  1. Place one scoop of vanilla ice cream into each of two heatproof glasses or mugs.
  2. Pour 1 cup of warm chai concentrate over each scoop of ice cream.
  3. Slowly pour one shot of hot espresso over the ice cream in each glass.
  4. If desired, add 2 tbsp of milk or cream to each glass for a smoother texture.
  5. Top with a dusting of ground cinnamon or cocoa powder, and add a dollop of whipped cream if using.

Step 4: Serve

  • Serve immediately with a spoon, allowing the ice cream to melt slightly into the chai and espresso for a creamy, spiced treat.

Tips

  • For a stronger chai flavor, let the concentrate steep longer before straining.
  • Use decaf espresso for a nighttime dessert without the caffeine buzz.
  • Experiment with different ice cream flavors like cinnamon or coffee for a twist.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 250–300 (varies with ice cream and milk/cream)
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 4g

Enjoy your Dirty Chai Affogato!