Traditional Italian Dessert - Zabajone

A traditional Italian dessert called "Zabajone" (written "Zabaglione" in most of Italy outside of Piedmont) is a delicious treat for the whole family. Well, maybe not the whole family, as it is full of wine; perhaps make it when you have no children for dinner.

So what is Zabajone (Zabaglione)? It is a traditional dessert from the Piedmont region of Italy that they've been enjoying here for centuries. A delicious dessert, perfect for special occasions, but it's also easy enough to make for a cozy night in.

How is Zabajone (Zabaglione) made? Well, it is a sweet, creamy, custard-like dessert that is flavored with wine and served with sponge fingers and fruit. 

This recipe is one of our favorites, and we always tend to associate it with some of the most magical and romantic evenings in our lives. I hope it creates the same magic for you.

Maria and I love sharing our favorite Italian recipes and "our" Italy with you, so please stick around a little and explore. Take your time, though; put your feet up and enjoy... Italy is not one of those things that should be rushed.

As with all dishes from the beautiful Piedmont region of Italy, this traditional Italian zabajone recipe really tastes better if you use authentic ingredients when preparing it. 

Zabajone Ingredients:

• Eggs,
• sugar,
• Moscato sweet white wine (if you don't have moscato use marsala or another sweet wine.)
• Maraschino liqueur is the best to use, but you can use any other light-colored liqueur in the absence of Maraschino.
• sponge fingers,
• strawberries or cherries

Calculate the quantities as follows:

For each person: three egg yolks, three teaspoonfuls of caster sugar, and a wine glass of wine and liqueur mixed equally.

Cooking Instructions

• Mix the wine and liqueur equally.
• Whip up the yolks of the eggs with the sugar, then gradually add the wine and liqueur mixture.
• Put this in a bain-marie, and stir until it has thickened to the consistency of a custard.
• To avoid disaster, ensure that whatever happens, you don't let it get to the boil.
• Whisk continuously until the mixture thickens to a light, foamy custard that coats the whisk. 
• Serve hot in custard glasses with the sponge fingers, and decorate it with the strawberries or cherries.

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