30-Minute Cherry Semifreddo
- Prep
- 20 min
- Cook
- 10 min
- Yield
- 16 servings
- Level
- medium
- Cuisine
- Italian
This elegant Italian frozen dessert combines whipped cream, meringue, and dried cherries for a light, airy texture that's softer than ice cream. The semifreddo is enhanced with Kirshwasser, a clear cherry brandy that intensifies the cherry flavor. Topped with a warm, aromatic compote of fresh cherries simmered with orange juice, honey, cinnamon, and star anise, it creates a beautiful contrast of temperatures and textures. Perfect for dinner parties or special occasions when you want an impressive dessert that can be made ahead.
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Ingredients
- 1 cup dried sour cherriesdried cranberries1:1
note:different flavor profile
- 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar, divided
- 6 large egg whites
- 2 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 1 tablespoon Kirshwasserbrandy or cherry juice1:1note:cherry juice adds sweetness
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- 2 cups cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 whole star anise
Method
9 steps- 1
Pulse dried cherries and 3/4 cup sugar in food processor 10 times
- 2
Beat egg whites until soft peaks form
- 3
Gradually add remaining sugar and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form
- 4
Whip cold cream with Kirshwasser until soft peaks form
- 5
Fold meringue into cream, then fold in dried cherry mixture
- 6
Scoop into large dish, cover and freeze for 5 hours
- 7
Combine compote ingredients in saucepan and simmer
- 8
Cook until slightly thickened, about 7 minutes, then remove from heat and cool
- 9
Scoop compote over semifreddo and serve
Tips
Ensure cream and bowl are well-chilled before whipping for best volume and stability
Fold mixtures gently to maintain the airy texture of the semifreddo
The compote can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving
Good to Know
Cover tightly and freeze for up to 1 week
Semifreddo can be made 1-2 days ahead; compote up to 3 days
Allow to soften slightly before scooping if frozen hard
Common Mistakes
Avoid overwhipping cream to prevent curdling
Don't overfold to maintain light texture
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
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FAQ
Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes, substitute the Kirshwasser with cherry juice or omit entirely. The cherry flavor will be milder but still delicious.
What if I don't have star anise?
You can omit it or substitute with a pinch of ground anise or fennel seeds for a similar aromatic note.
How long does this keep frozen?
The semifreddo keeps well covered in the freezer for up to one week, though best texture is within 3-4 days.