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How to Make Semifreddo: Homemade Semifreddo al Cioccolato Recipe

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Aug 24, 2024 • 2 min read

If you’re looking to make a frozen dessert and you don’t have an ice cream machine at home, semifreddo is the answer—this Italian frozen dessert requires zero churning.

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What Is a Semifreddo?

Semifreddo is an Italian word meaning “half cold.” This dessert has the light, airy texture of frozen mousse. Semifreddo is traditionally made by bringing sugar to 248 degrees Fahrenheit (the “firm stage” at which sugar becomes firm and flexible) and whisking it into egg whites (the same method used for Italian meringue), then folding the egg white mixture into whipped cream. Alternatively, you can make semifreddo without hot sugar syrup by using the French meringue method of simply whisking sugar into egg whites.

Semifreddo vs. Ice Cream: What’s the Difference?

Semifreddo and ice cream are both desserts that can satisfy your sweet tooth, but there are many differences in how these two treats are made.

  • Churning: Semifreddo is not churned in an ice cream machine. Instead, it is poured into molds and frozen.
  • Texture: Semifreddo has a lighter, more delicate texture than ice cream.
  • Egg whites: Semifreddo is traditionally made with egg whites, similar to meringue, while ice cream is made with egg yolks, similar to custard.
  • Cream and sugar: Semifreddo requires more cream and sugar than ice cream, which creates a softer consistency when it freezes.

4 Popular Flavors of Semifreddo

There are endless semifreddo flavor combinations.

  1. 1. Vanilla semifreddo: Make vanilla semifreddo by infusing the heavy cream with vanilla extract or the seeds of a vanilla bean pod.
  2. 2. Almond semifreddo: Toasted almonds are a classic Sicilian addition to semifreddo. Toast skinless almonds on a baking sheet, then cool the almonds slightly and break them up in a food processor. Gently fold them into the whipped cream mixture. You can use the same method with pistachios or other nuts.
  3. 3. Lemon semifreddo: For a refreshing take on semifreddo, add the juice and zest of a few lemons to the whipped cream mixture.
  4. 4. Semifreddo al Cioccolato: This iconic semifreddo is made with small pieces of grated chocolate.

Classic Semifreddo al Cioccolato Recipe

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19 Ratings | Rate Now

makes

6-8

prep time

40 min

total time

6 hr 40 min

Ingredients

  1. 1

    In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat heavy cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Alternatively, beat cream in a large bowl using a handheld electric mixer or whisk manually.

  2. 2

    Add ¾ cup of the sugar, and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

  3. 3

    Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the grated chocolate into the whipped cream.

  4. 4

    In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with remaining 2 teaspoons sugar until stiff.

  5. 5

    Using a rubber spatula, gently fold half of the whipped egg white mixture into the whipped cream mixture. Repeat with remaining whipped egg whites.

  6. 6

    Line a 2–2 ½ quart loaf pan or another mold of equivalent volume with parchment paper, leaving a generous overhang. (Silicone molds do not need to be lined.)

  7. 7

    Pour the semifreddo mixture into the mold and cover with plastic wrap, pressing the plastic directly onto the surface of the semifreddo.

  8. 8

    Freeze until firm, at least 6 hours. To serve, remove the plastic wrap, invert the semifreddo onto a serving platter or cutting board, remove the parchment paper, and slice.

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