Salted Caramel Pretzel Affogato

The Salted Caramel Pretzel Affogato is a bold, coffee-forward treat with a grown-up twist. It blends the richness of fresh espresso with the smooth depth of coffee liqueur and the sweet-salty kick of salted caramel vodka. Think of it as a dessert and cocktail in one strong, slightly sweet, and layered with flavor. Pour it over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy finish, or sip it straight for a more intense hit. This one’s perfect after dinner or when you’re craving something that hits the sweet spot between comfort and kick. No fuss just good, bold flavor.

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Tasting Notes

This Salted Caramel Pretzel Affogato is rich, bold, and smooth with a salty-sweet finish. The salted caramel vodka brings in a warm sweetness, while the coffee liqueur deepens the flavor without being too strong. Fresh espresso adds a real coffee kick and cuts through the richness. When poured over the gelato, the hot espresso melts it just enough to blend into a creamy, drinkable dessert. The pretzel adds a hint of salt and crunch that plays well with the caramel. A pinch of flaky sea salt on top finishes the drink with just the right amount of contrast in every sip.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a shaker to chill the espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur quickly without watering them down too much. A jigger helps measure the spirits accurately. A strainer ensures a clean pour over the gelato. Serve in a coupe or martini glass wide enough to hold a scoop of gelato and leave room for the pour. A small spoon or scoop helps portion the gelato neatly. Use a fine spoon or your fingers to sprinkle flaky salt evenly across the top. You don’t need much more—just basic tools and a clean, chilled glass.

Ingredients

• 1 oz salted caramel vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur
• 1.5 oz freshly brewed espresso
• 1 scoop salted caramel pretzel gelato
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (for topping)

Instructions

• In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh espresso.
• Shake well for about 10 seconds to chill.
• Add a scoop of salted caramel pretzel gelato to a coupe or martini glass.
• Strain the cocktail over the gelato.
• Top with a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor let it cool slightly before shaking so it doesn’t water down the ice.
• If you can’t find salted caramel pretzel gelato, use caramel gelato or ice cream and top with a few crushed pretzel pieces.
• Shake the liquid mix quickly and serve fast to keep everything cold and smooth.
• A wide coupe helps contain the melting gelato and makes it easy to sip or spoon.
• Flaky sea salt like Maldon gives the best finish don’t use fine salt, as it can dissolve too quickly or overpower the drink.

When to Serve

This Salted Caramel Pretzel Affogato is the kind of drink that works best as an after-dinner treat or late-night dessert. It’s perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or when you want to finish a meal with something bold but not too heavy. Serve it in place of dessert, or alongside cookies or simple bites. It’s also a great holiday drink or weekend special when you want to offer something fun and different. The mix of cold gelato and warm espresso makes it feel both cozy and refreshing. Best served immediately so the textures and flavors stay balanced.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• For salted caramel vodka, Smirnoff Kissed Caramel and Stolichnaya Salted Karamel are great options.
• For coffee liqueur, Kahlúa and Tia Maria are both smooth and blend well.
• Use strong, freshly brewed espresso something with bold flavor that stands up to the sweetness.
• For gelato, Talenti and Jeni’s have great salted caramel options, or check local creameries for versions with pretzel mix-ins.
• If pretzel isn’t in the gelato, add crushed pretzels on top.
• Use flaky sea salt like Maldon or Jacobsen for the best texture and finis don’t skip this final touch, it brings everything together.

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