Description
Zabaglione is an authentic Italian wine custard known for its light, airy texture and rich flavor. This classic dessert combines egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine, whisked together over gentle heat to create a smooth, frothy custard that can be served warm or chilled with whipped cream.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup Marsala wine (or Vin Santo, Moscato d’Asti)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bain-Marie: Fill a medium saucepan with 2 inches of water and bring it to a gentle simmer without boiling. Place a copper or heatproof glass bowl over the saucepan, making sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water to ensure gentle, indirect heat.
- Whisk Yolks and Sugar: Off the heat, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes pale and thick.
- Add Wine and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the Marsala wine along with a pinch of salt and the optional lemon juice until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Cook Over Gentle Heat: Place the bowl over the simmering water and continuously whisk the mixture for 7 to 10 minutes. Whisk until the custard triples in volume and forms soft peaks. Use the 8-second spoon trail test: the mixture is ready when a spoon trail holds its shape for 8 seconds.
- Serve Immediately: Spoon the warm zabaglione over fresh berries, panettone, or cookies. For a mousse variant, allow the custard to cool slightly, fold in whipped cream, and chill before serving.
Notes
- Use a copper bowl for the best texture and to help stabilize the custard.
- Whisk continuously once the bowl is on heat to prevent the custard from curdling.
- Experiment with different types of wine such as Marsala (classic), Vin Santo (deep flavor), or Moscato d’Asti (light and floral).
- For a make-ahead option, chill the zabaglione and serve with whipped cream or keep it in a siphon for dispensing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg