For the uninitiated, affogato is the ultimate dessert for those who like the juxtaposition of deep contrasts: the black, bitter acidity of espresso meets the pure white creaminess of vanilla ice cream. The word itself also rolls off the tongue nicely in four syllables that rhyme: "ah-foe-ga-toe," an Italian word, which literally translates to "drowned," per Spoon University.

Affogato can refer to any culinary event in which a liquid is poured over cold food. Still, the classic affogato on most menus consists of a scoop of ice cream or gelato that has coffee (alternatively, cappuccino or whiskey or rum for more indulgent versions) poured over it.