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Coffee Semifreddo

Irresistibly Creamy Coffee Semifreddo You Can Make Ahead

This Coffee Semifreddo is a make-ahead dessert that's creamy and delicious, perfect for coffee lovers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream Can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but texture will differ.
  • 4 large Egg Yolks Substitutes not recommended for texture.
  • 3/4 cup Sugar Can use less sugar to reduce sweetness; however, it may affect texture.
For the Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Instant Espresso Powder Alternative: brewed espresso but ensure it is concentrated and cooled.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Substitution: almond extract for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 pinch Salt Pinch of sea salt recommended.
Optional Toppings
  • 1/4 cup Chocolate Shavings Substitute with cocoa nibs for a crunchier texture.

Equipment

  • loaf pan
  • electric mixer
  • heat-safe bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Start by lining a loaf pan with plastic wrap, allowing enough excess to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
  2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. In a heat-safe bowl, combine the egg yolks and sugar. Whisk vigorously until the mixture turns pale yellow and thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Add the instant espresso powder and vanilla extract, stirring until smoothly incorporated.
  4. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water, whisking continuously for about 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  5. Once thickened, remove from heat and cool for about 5 minutes. Gradually fold the chilled whipped cream into the egg mixture.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly and ensuring there are no air pockets.
  7. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight.
  8. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes, slice, and optionally top with chocolate shavings or coffee syrup.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 95mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 75mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

For best results, follow the expert tips on whisking, monitoring cream whipping, and using quality ingredients.

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