Ricotta semifreddo is a simple yet impressive dessert, perfect for many occasions. It’s very practical because you can prepare it in advance and store it in the freezer for a month. Moreover, it is a light dessert that won’t weigh down the meal. You will also find the gluten-free and lactose-free version.
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- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economical
- Rest time: 8 Hours
- Preparation time: 30 Minutes
- Portions: 15
- Cooking methods: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Christmas, All Seasons
Ingredients
- 90 g egg yolks
- 170 g sugar
- 50 g water
- 500 g ricotta cheese
- 2 cups whipping cream, 35% fat
- 1 vanilla bean
- cup dark chocolate chips
- 500 g sponge cake
- 1 cup coffee
- cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Tools
- 1 Stand Mixer
- 2 Bowls
- 1 Mold
Steps
In a small pot, put the water and sugar and cook until the sugar syrup reaches 250°F.
Start whisking the egg yolks.
Incorporate the sugar syrup into the yolks while they’re being whipped in a stand mixer or with electric beaters, and continue until cool.Sift the ricotta and add it to the semifreddo base, gently mixing from bottom to top to keep the mixture light.
Gently add the semi-whipped cream.
Add the dark chocolate chips.Place the slices of sponge cake in the mold and soak them with coffee.
Pour the ricotta semifreddo and freeze for at least 8 hours.Unmold the ricotta semifreddo just before serving.
Cut into cubes and decorate with unsweetened cocoa.
ATTENTION: Check the Italian Celiac Association guide and carefully read the ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Advice
Store in the freezer for 1 month at 0°F
No need to defrost, otherwise the ricotta semifreddo will be too soft. The serving temperature should be between 17°F and 3°F.
No need to defrost, otherwise the ricotta semifreddo will be too soft. The serving temperature should be between 17°F and 3°F.
No need to defrost, otherwise the ricotta semifreddo will be too soft. The serving temperature should be between 17°F and 3°F.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Can I make the ricotta semifreddo lactose-free and gluten-free?
Yes, you can use lactose-free or completely plant-based products in the same quantities as in the recipe.
For gluten-free, make sure the ingredients are allowed according to the guide of the Italian Celiac Association. Here is the gluten-free sponge cake recipe.

