Cafe Liegeois Recipe – A Decadent European Frozen Dessert
Prepare to indulge in the rich and velvety delight of Cafe Liegeois, a European-inspired frozen dessert that is as sophisticated as it is easy to make. This dessert is the perfect balance of creamy vanilla ice cream, espresso-flavored cream, and a touch of chocolate-covered coffee beans for that final flourish. Whether you’re looking to create a special treat for your family or impress guests at a dinner party, this recipe promises to deliver an unforgettable experience in just 15 minutes of active preparation time.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crème Fraiche (or Whipping Cream) | 2/3 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Instant Espresso Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | 1 pint |
| Coffee Liqueur (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Chocolate-Covered Coffee Beans | 1/2 cup |
| Whipping Cream (for topping) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 282.8 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 84.4 mg |
| Sodium | 56.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugar | 15.3 g |
| Protein | 2.7 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Espresso Cream:
In a medium-sized bowl, beat the chilled crème fraiche (or whipping cream), sugar, instant espresso powder, and coffee liqueur (if using) together. Continue beating until the mixture forms stiff peaks, ensuring it has a rich, creamy texture with a strong espresso flavor. -
Combine with Ice Cream:
Take your softened vanilla ice cream and add it to the espresso cream mixture. Gently fold the ice cream into the whipped espresso cream, ensuring it is evenly combined, but be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much. The result should be a smooth, creamy coffee-flavored ice cream base. -
Freeze Overnight:
Once mixed, transfer the ice cream mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover it tightly and freeze overnight or for at least 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the texture to set perfectly. -
Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
Just before serving, whip the cream with the sugar in a medium bowl until stiff peaks form. This will be your fluffy, decadent topping that will crown your Cafe Liegeois. -
Serve and Garnish:
Scoop the creamy espresso-infused ice cream into tall glasses. Generously top each serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Finish by garnishing with a few chocolate-covered coffee beans for that touch of elegance and a final burst of flavor.
Servings:
This recipe yields 6 delightful servings, perfect for sharing with friends or family. Each serving brings the taste of Europe’s finest frozen desserts to your table, offering a combination of flavors and textures that will surely be a hit.
Tips for the Perfect Cafe Liegeois:
- Crème Fraiche vs. Whipping Cream: If you prefer a tangy, slightly more sophisticated taste, opt for crème fraiche. If you’re looking for a sweeter and more neutral base, whipping cream works just as well.
- Espresso Powder: Instant espresso powder is a key component of this recipe. It delivers the bold coffee flavor without the need to brew fresh espresso.
- Chocolate-Covered Coffee Beans: These beans are optional but add a delightful crunch and extra coffee kick to each bite.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a luxurious homemade dessert, this Cafe Liegeois will take your frozen dessert game to new heights. Perfect for coffee lovers and those who appreciate indulgent, yet easy-to-make treats, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire. Enjoy the experience of creating this French-inspired dessert, and let every spoonful transport you to a café in Paris.
