Semifreddo with Maltesers, Meringue and Almonds

Semifreddo in Italian means "half cold". They are an easy, no-nonsense way to have an ice-cream dessert that you can prepare in advance and either scoop straight out of a large container or slice for a neater look. The combination here is fantastic and a great party dessert to suit all ages.

Pictured: Semifreddo with Maltesers, Meringue and Almonds

1 tsp vanilla essence – vanilla paste is even better
50g sugar
4 large eggs, separated
600ml double cream
Salt
Handful Maltesers, crumbled
2 meringue nests, crumbled
2 tbsp Flaked almonds, toasted

In one bowl - mix vanilla, sugar and yolks til pale.
In another bowl - whisk cream to soft peaks – do not over whip. To note, cold cream beats faster.
In another bowl – beat egg whites with a little salt to stiff peaks - make sure the bowl is thoroughly clean and there is no yolk in the mix as any fat can minimise the peaks of the beaten whites.
Add cream mix and egg whites to yolk mix; stir a little to blend slightly.
Add Maltesers, meringue and almonds to yolk sugar mix. Fold in gently til all mixed together, just.
Spoon into a container that can go in freezer – a log shaped one is good for slicing.
Cover with cling film and freeze.

Wonderful on its own or great served in slices between wafer biscuits as an ice-cream sandwich! Wafers can be found in Aldi Supermarkets.

Serves 6 - 8

Pictured: Meringue Nests