Frozen Almond Tortoni Dessert with Amaretti Crumbs

Tortoni: Frozen Almond Cream Dessert

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (freezing time)
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8

This Tortoni Frozen Almond Cream Dessert is a classic treat from The Soprano Family Cookbook, perfect for those who crave a rich, creamy dessert with a delightful almond flavor. With its delicate balance of whipped cream, egg whites, and amaretti cookies, it’s a simple yet elegant frozen treat that can be made ahead for special occasions or just a sweet indulgence after dinner. While it requires a bit of time to freeze, the preparation itself is incredibly easy and straightforward. This recipe is ideal for impressing guests or satisfying a family craving for a refreshing, nutty dessert.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Instructions

1. Crush the Amaretti Cookies
   Begin by placing the amaretti cookies in a small, heavy-duty plastic bag. Use a heavy object, like a rolling pin, to crush them into fine crumbs. You should have about 1/4 cup of crumbs when you’re finished.

2. Prepare the Whipped Cream
   In a large bowl that’s been chilled in the refrigerator, combine the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Using a hand-held electric mixer, beat the mixture on high speed until the cream holds soft peaks when the beaters are lifted.

3. Whip the Egg Whites
   In a separate clean bowl, add the egg whites and salt. Using clean beaters, beat the egg whites on low speed until they become foamy. Gradually increase the speed and continue beating until the egg whites form soft peaks.

4. Combine the Cream and Egg Whites
   Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the whipped cream mixture. Be sure to do this carefully so as not to deflate the mixture. This step will ensure your dessert has a light and airy texture.

5. Spoon into Goblets
   Once the cream and egg whites are fully combined, spoon the mixture into 8 wine goblets (or any small serving dish of your choice). The creamy mixture should fill each goblet to about the top, creating a beautiful, elegant presentation.

6. Top with Amaretti Crumbs
   Sprinkle the crushed amaretti cookie crumbs generously over the top of each serving of tortoni. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to balance the smooth creaminess of the dessert.

7. Freeze
   Cover each goblet with plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. Allow the tortoni to freeze for at least 4 hours, or for best results, freeze it overnight. The freezing time allows the flavors to meld together and the texture to firm up.

8. Serve
   When you’re ready to serve, remove the tortoni from the freezer about 15 minutes before serving. This will give it enough time to soften slightly so you can easily scoop and enjoy it.

Tips for the Perfect Tortoni:

• For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish with a sprig of mint or a few slivers of toasted almonds just before serving.
• Make sure to give the dessert ample time to freeze. If left in the freezer for too long, it may become too firm, making it difficult to scoop. Allow it to thaw slightly before serving if needed.
• This dessert is ideal for making ahead of time, making it perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or a weeknight treat that’s ready to go when you are.

With this Tortoni Frozen Almond Cream Dessert, you’ll have a rich, indulgent, yet refreshingly light treat that combines the best of creamy textures and crunchy flavors. Its almond aroma, delicate sweetness, and airy consistency make it an unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a simple family dessert, this frozen treat is sure to delight anyone who tries it!