What is a Semifreddo?
Semifreddo (in Italian means 'half-cold' or ‘half-frozen'), is a frozen dessert, texture-wise, it is similar between ice cream and mousse.
Compared to ice cream: it is less cold, it contains about 10/15% more sugars and fats and a smaller amount of water, it is made up of air for over 50%. It is much lighter than ice cream and melts on your tongue very quickly, giving the impression you just ate the lightest dessert imaginable.
The semifreddo can be enjoyed cold at an optimal temperature of -16/ -18 ° C.
Unlike mousses and Bavarians, Semifreddo does not contain gelling or thickening agents: the structure of these desserts is only given by its frozen structure.
“Summer Fresh” plated dessert: Lemon semifreddo, Whiskey poached peaches, Whiskey syrup gel, Yogurt microwave sponge, Mixed herbs: Mint, Lemon balm, Dill
Type of Semifreddo
Italian Semifreddo:
(The dessert is compact due to the creme patissier, but also very light)
15-25% Italian meringue
20-25% Creme Pat
40-50% Semi-whipped cream
10-15% Aromas/paste (nuts, liquors, )
Semifreddo:
(The characteristic of this semifreddo is the presence of two preparation rich in air, which give the dessert creaminess, taste and lightness)
35-45% Italian meringue
20-35% Pâté-à-bombe
35-45% Semi-whipped cream
5-15% Fruit puree/Aromas/paste (nuts, fruit)
Fruit/Yogurt Semifreddo:
25-30% Fruit puree/yogurt
25-30% Italian meringue
40-50% Semi-whipped cream
Semifreddo Parfait:
Compared to the Italian semifreddo, a parfait has less air, and more compact structure. The presence of the Pâté-à-bombe, instead of the Italian meringue, gives the dessert a softer and creamier texture.
35-45% Pâté-à-bombe
5-15% Aromes/paste (nuts, fruit)
40-50% Semi-whipped cream
Semifreddo is the perfect component for a plated dessert, can be prepared in advance, stored in the freezer and plated a la minutes for the service.
What do you prefer using? Semifreddo or Ice cream for your frozen dessert?
Note: Up on The Dessert Lab (www.thedessertlab.co) you can find the following Semifreddo recipes:
Cherry Popsicle
Lemon Semifreddo
Strawberry Semifreddo
Chocolate Rum Parfait
Matcha Parfait
Cheesecake Parfait