The pear and amaretti semifreddo is delicate and velvety, a dessert that captivates with its simplicity. The intense aroma of amaretti blends with the sweetness of pears, creating a perfect balance between crunchiness and softness. The gluten-free and lactose-free version retains all its original deliciousness using even plant-based products. Perfect to prepare in advance, this semifreddo becomes an elegant idea for Christmas parties.
If you don’t want to miss all the new recipes, follow me also on my FB page, on my IG profile and on my YouTube channel.
Discover other semifreddo recipes
- Rest time: 8 Hours
- Preparation time: 30 Minutes
- Portions: 6 People
- Cooking methods: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Autumn, Winter
Ingredients
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 3/4 cup whipping cream
- 1 cup pears (canned)
- 1/2 cup amaretti
- 2 pears (canned)
Tools
- 1 Knife
- 1 Stand Mixer
- 1 Mold
- 1 Bowl
- 2 Saucepans
Steps
Thinly slice the 2 canned pears with a knife and set aside. Cut the remaining pears (1 cup) into small cubes of about 1/8 inch.
For the pâte à bombe, put the water and sugar in a saucepan and cook the sugar syrup until it reaches 250°F.
Begin to whip the egg yolks at room temperature. Incorporate the sugar syrup into the yolks while whipping in a stand mixer or with electric beaters and continue until cooled.
Next, whip the cream and fold it into the pâte à bombe with a spatula from bottom to top to avoid deflating the mixture.
Add the pear cubes.
Gently combine and pour into individual molds or a 9-inch diameter mold lined with cling film.
Place in the freezer for at least 8 hours.
Unmold the semifreddo just before serving.Garnish with crumbled amaretti and thinly sliced pears.
ATTENTION: consult the Celiac Disease Foundation guidelines and read the ingredients carefully to ensure they are gluten-free.
Tips
It can be stored in the freezer for 1 month at 0°F
No need to thaw it, otherwise the pear and amaretti semifreddo will be too soft. The serving temperature is from 18°F to 3°F.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make the pear and amaretti semifreddo without lactose and gluten?
Yes, you can use lactose-free or completely plant-based products in the same quantities as in the recipe.
For gluten-free, ensure the ingredients are allowed as per the Celiac Disease Foundation guidelines.

