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Nougat Semifreddo

17/11/2023

Nougat semifreddo is a delightfully crunchy and indulgent dessert that can easily be prepared at home. Here is the recipe with an Italian twist:

Ingredients

  • 250 g of soft almond nougat
  • 500 ml of fresh cream for desserts
  • 100 ml of whole milk
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 80 g of sugar
  • 30 ml of Amaretto liqueur (optional, to enhance the almond flavor)
  • Toasted almonds for garnish (optional)

Preparation

  1. Start by chopping the nougat. If you prefer to find crunchy pieces in your semifreddo, do not chop it too finely.
  2. Pour the milk into a small pot and heat it until it is very warm.
  3. Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture is light and frothy.
  4. Gradually add the hot milk to the yolks, continuously stirring to prevent them from curdling.
  5. Put the mixture back on the heat and cook in a double boiler, stirring constantly, until the cream has slightly thickened.
  6. Remove from the heat, add the Amaretto liqueur if you decided to use it, and let the cream cool completely.
  7. In the meantime, whip the fresh cream until it is firm.
  8. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled egg yolk cream, then add the chopped nougat.
  9. Pour the mixture into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper or cling film, to facilitate the semifreddo’s release later on.
  10. Let it rest in the freezer for at least 4 hours or until the semifreddo has solidified.
  11. Before serving, let the dessert sit at room temperature for a few minutes and then turn it out onto a serving dish, removing the paper or film.
  12. Garnish with toasted almonds or other elements of your choice.

Note:

  • The semifreddo can be stored in the freezer and taken out just before being served.

Curiosity

Semifreddo is a type of spoon dessert that is served cold but not frozen, hence the name “semifreddo” (half cold). Its soft and velvety texture makes it perfect as a meal conclusion, especially on special occasions or during the warmer months. The nougat adds a crispy and traditionally wintery note, which pleasantly contrasts with the semifreddo’s cold softness.

Nougat Semifreddo