Cacao-Maple Melange Semifreddo
with Chocolate Shavings and Maple Pecans
a sweet treat recipe
With a lifelong passion for cooking Chris brings a unique blend of culinary expertise, creativity, and artistic flair to every dish. Driven by an insatiable curiosity and a desire to merge artistic vision with the culinary arts, Chris has found true fulfillment as a recipe developer and photographer. Through the lens of the camera, Chris skillfully captures the essence and beauty of each dish, transforming food into visual poetry. The result is a captivating fusion of flavors, textures, and aesthetics, inviting you to savor every moment. Follow Chris’s culinary adventures on Instagram at
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Perfect for an intimate gathering or a solo indulgence, these Semifreddo Cups combine warm winter flavors in a cool refreshing treat. Where every bite tells a tale of chocolatey richness, maple sweetness, and spice-infused joy.
When creating this recipe I was inspired by early spring when the maple season is fully upon us. The time of year when winter hasn't quite ended but spring playfully peeks its head in from time to time reminding us that the warm days of summer will soon be shining on us again.
As someone who has never owned an ice-cream machine, the Italian semifreddo (translated as "half-cold" in English) has always been my go-to recipe for when I am looking to make something cool and refreshing.
It has a texture somewhere between ice cream and frozen mousse with a creamy and smooth consistency. A perfect combination for the spiced warmth of my Cacao-Maple Melange blend.
I added a little extra hint of chocolate with the inclusion of delicate chocolate shavings and a splash of maple syrup for a gentle touch of added sweetness.
If you so desire you can even add some maple candied nuts.
TIME (ACTIVE) | 20 M
TIME (INACTIVE) | 6 H
TOTAL | 6 H 20 M
4-6 SERVINGS
| Individual cups
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SPECIAL EQUIPMENT:
LOAF TIN OR INDIVIDUAL SERVING GLASSES
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, mix whole milk, maple syrup, and 3 tablespoons of the spice blend. Gently fold the whipped cream into the maple-spice mixture until well combined.
- Spoon the semifreddo mixture into individual glasses, alternating with layers of chocolate chips (or chocolate shavings). Repeat until the glass is filled, finishing with a layer of chocolate shavings.
- Place the glasses in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours or until the semifreddo is firm.
- When ready to serve, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra indulgent touch. Now you can go ahead and enjoy the semifreddo directly from the glasses.
Make sure to store the semifreddo in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It can then be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months while still maintaining good quality. However, its texture and flavor are likely to be at their best within the first few weeks.
For an extra special topper try adding some maple candied nuts. Simply toast 1/2 cup chopped nuts in a small pan until fragrant. Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, stirring until the nuts are coated and the syrup has thickened. Allow to cool on parchment paper and break into small crumbles once hardened. (My personal favorites are pecans and hazelnuts).
Before slicing or scooping the semifreddo, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This short period allows the dessert to soften slightly, making it easier to cut through or scoop. Semifreddo has a softer texture than traditional ice cream, and allowing it to temper briefly enhances the creaminess and makes serving a more pleasant experience. Remember, semifreddo is meant to have a softer and silkier consistency, so embrace its unique texture for a delightful dessert experience!
Bakes and Bevvies Blend
spice blend collab
Introducing my Cacao-Maple Mélange, a spice blend born from the crossroads of my Swiss heritage and Canadian home. Inspired by the breathtaking Swiss Alps and the maple-laden landscapes of Canada, Cacao-Maple Mélange is a celebration of two distinct cultures united in a single spice blend. The visual allure of the mix is its rich chocolatey hue that is intertwined with hints of warm cinnamon and golden maple.
The aroma of this blend is where the magic lies. It is warm and cozy and will transport you to a chalet nestled in the mountains. The sweet embrace of maple mingles with the warm spiciness of cloves and cinnamon, creating an aromatic journey that captivates the senses. When tasted, the blend unfolds like a story – the deep, robust cacao notes balance harmoniously with the sweet warmth of maple sugar and cinnamon, while the subtle and delicate citrusy zing of orange and cardamom adds a refreshing twist.
This unique combination of flavors reflects the culinary tastes of both of my worlds. Cacao-Maple Mélange is versatile, elevating both sweet and savory dishes. Sprinkle it over your morning pancakes, stir it into hot chocolate, or use it as a secret ingredient in savory stews and roasts. The taste evolves with heat and time, intensifying its complexity as it cooks. Add it early for a gradual infusion or later for a burst of bold flavor.
Crafted with love and a nod to my roots, Cacao-Maple Mélange is more than a spice blend; it's a culinary journey through the mountains and forests, a fusion of cultures that transforms every dish into a celebration.
Uses:
In sweet treats: Add to your brownie or cookie batter for a hint of chocolate and spice.In hot beverages: Stir it into hot cocoa, coffee, or even a chai tea for a Swiss-Canadian twist.On desserts: Dust it over ice cream, yogurt, or chocolate mousse for a delightful garnish.In savory dishes: Sprinkle it on roasted meats like pork or chicken or add it to your stews for a unique and exotic flavor.
