Classic Italian Semifreddo
A luxuriously light and airy Italian semi-frozen mousse, requiring no ice cream maker. This versatile dessert is perfect for a refreshing treat.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 ml Heavy cream(Must be very cold for optimal whipping.)
- 4 Large eggs(Ensure eggs are fresh and at room temperature for better volume when beating.)
- 150 g Granulated sugar
- 2-4 tbsp Flavoring(Examples: strong brewed coffee, cooled; amaretto liqueur; melted and cooled dark chocolate; vanilla extract; fruit puree. Adjust to taste.)
- 1/2 cup Optional additions(Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit pieces can be folded in.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the loaf pan: Line a standard 9x5 inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving an overhang on all sides. This will make unmolding easier. Set aside.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
Whip the cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until it forms soft peaks. Be careful not to over-whip. Cover the bowl and refrigerate until needed.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Prepare the egg mixture: In a separate, heatproof bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar. Place this bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (ensure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water). Whisk constantly for about 5-8 minutes, until the mixture is pale yellow, thick, and has reached a temperature of 71°C (160°F) if using a thermometer. This cooks the eggs and dissolves the sugar. Remove from heat.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Beat the egg mixture: Using an electric mixer, beat the warm egg and sugar mixture on high speed for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes very thick, pale, and forms a 'ribbon' when the beaters are lifted. The mixture should be at room temperature.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 5
Combine and flavor: Gently fold the whipped cream into the beaten egg mixture using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to deflate the mixture. Fold in your chosen flavoring (e.g., coffee, amaretto, melted chocolate) and any optional additions like nuts or chocolate chips.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 6
Freeze: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Cover tightly with the overhanging plastic wrap, then with aluminum foil. Freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm.
⏱️ 6 hours - 7
Serve: To serve, invert the loaf pan onto a serving platter. Peel away the plastic wrap. Slice the semifreddo using a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Serve immediately.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure all dairy and equipment for whipping cream are very cold for best results.
- ✓The egg and sugar mixture must be cooked to at least 71°C (160°F) to ensure food safety.
- ✓Folding gently is key to maintaining the airy texture of the semifreddo.
- ✓For easier slicing, warm your knife under hot water before cutting.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Torrone Semifreddo: Fold in chopped torrone (nougat) and toasted almonds.
- Chocolate Swirl Semifreddo: Swirl in melted chocolate or chocolate ganache before freezing.
- Berry Semifreddo: Fold in fresh or pureed berries.
- Coffee Semifreddo: Use strong, cooled espresso as the flavoring.
- Amaretto Semifreddo: Use amaretto liqueur for a nutty, almond flavor.