When it comes to summer desserts, nothing quite hits the spot like something cold, creamy, and decadent. That’s where cold chocolate comes in. This Italian dessert, also known as zabaione or sabayon, is a sweet and frothy mixture of egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine. But when you add some cocoa powder and chill it in the fridge, you have a dessert that will knock your socks off.
The first thing to know about making cold chocolate zabaglione is that it’s not complicated, but it does require some elbow grease. The key to a light and airy zabaglione is to whisk the heck out of it. You want to whip the egg yolks and sugar until they’re thick and pale yellow, then gradually add the Marsala wine while whisking constantly. This will create a fluffy mixture that’s almost like a custard.
Once you’ve got your basic zabaglione, it’s time to add the cocoa powder. You’ll want to use a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder, as this will give the dessert a rich and chocolatey flavor without being overly sweet. Sift about 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder over the zabaglione and whisk it in until it’s fully incorporated.
At this point, you can either the zabaglione warm ( is traditional) or chill it in the fridge for a few hours until it’s cold. If you’re making it ahead of time, it’s best to cover the zabaglione with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
When it’s time to serve the cold chocolate zabaglione, there are a few different ways you can present it. One classic option is to serve it in individual glasses or bowls, topped with some shaved chocolate or whipped cream. You can also serve it as a dip for fresh fruit, or spoon it over pound cake or ladyfingers for an indulgent twist on tiramisu.
One of the great things about cold chocolate zabaglione is that it’s a versatile dessert that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. You could serve it as a fancy dinner party dessert, or whip up a batch for a casual summer BBQ. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves chocolate.
Of course, like any dessert, cold chocolate zabaglione does come with some nutritional drawbacks. It’s high in sugar and fat, so it’s not something you’ll want to indulge in every day. But as an occasional treat, it’s a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth and beat the heat at the same time.
Overall, cold chocolate zabaglione is a dessert that’s well worth trying. It’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a wine aficionado, or just looking for a new and refreshing summer dessert, give cold chocolate zabaglione a try. Your taste buds will thank you.