Description
Zabaglione is a classic Italian wine custard made with egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine, cooked gently over simmering water until light and frothy. This authentic recipe creates a smooth, airy dessert perfect for serving warm over berries, panettone, or cookies, with an option to transform it into a mousse by folding in 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. Set a copper or heatproof glass bowl over the saucepan, making sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
- Whisk Yolks and Sugar: Off heat, vigorously whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and thick, approximately 2 minutes.
- Add Wine and Seasoning: Slowly incorporate the Marsala wine, a pinch of salt, and fresh lemon juice if using, whisking continuously until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Cook Over Gentle Heat: Place the bowl over the simmering water and whisk constantly for 7 to 10 minutes. The mixture should triple in volume and hold soft peaks. Use the 8-second spoon trail test: when you lift a spoon, the trail left should hold for 8 seconds to confirm readiness.
- Serve Immediately: Spoon the warm zabaglione over fresh berries, panettone, or cookies. For a lighter mousse version, allow it to cool slightly, fold in whipped cream, then chill before serving.
Notes
- Use a copper bowl to achieve the best texture and stability in the custard.
- Never stop whisking while the mixture is over the heat to prevent curdling.
- Experiment with different wines such as Marsala for a classic flavor, Vin Santo for a richer taste, or Moscato d’Asti for a lighter, floral note.
- For make-ahead preparation, chill the zabaglione and serve it with whipped cream or use a siphon to hold it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg
