Maltese Semifreddo is a modern dessert based on traditional Maltese ingredients and techniques that combines tahini, citrus zest, sea salt, and nuts in a semi-frozen format that is easy to prepare and suitable for warm weather.
Among the many delights of Maltese culinary heritage, desserts stand out with their bold flavors and rustic charm. Classics like imqaret (date-filled pastries) and kannoli (a Sicilian import with a Maltese twist) highlight local ingredients such as dates, almonds, citrus, and carob.
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is a sun-drenched archipelago with a rich tapestry of cultures woven through millennia of history. From ancient Phoenician roots to Arab, Italian, and British influences, the island’s cuisine reflects a vibrant fusion of East and West, salt and spice, tradition and innovation.
But what if we could reimagine this heritage in a modern dessert—Ħelwa tal-Baħar (literally, “Sweet of the Sea”)—a Maltese Sea-Salt, Sesame & Citrus Semifreddo that celebrates Malta’s maritime spirit, sun-soaked climate, and enduring love for nuts and spices?
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Why This Maltese Semifreddo is So Special
This unique dessert is inspired by the traditional ħelwa tat-tork, a nutty, tahini-based sweet often enjoyed in Maltese homes, and the sensory experience of the Maltese coast: the sea breeze, the salt, the sun. It combines toasted sesame, honey, citrus zest, and a delicate touch of sea salt, with a silky, semi-frozen texture that’s perfect for a warm Mediterranean evening.
It’s vegan, naturally gluten-free, and incredibly satisfying, blending old-world flavors with a modern, refined twist.
Recipe: Maltese Semifreddo
Ħelwa tal-Baħar is not just a dessert—it’s a celebration of Malta’s coastal soul and Mediterranean flavors. Creamy yet crunchy, sweet yet subtly salty, it’s a cooling tribute to the island’s warm hospitality and diverse culinary roots.
- Serves: 6
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus 4–5 hours freezing)
- Calories: ~280 kcal per serving (approximate)
- Recipe Cuisine: Maltese/Mediterranean
- Recipe Keywords: Maltese semifreddo, Maltese dessert, semifreddo, tahini dessert, Mediterranean sweets, nutty dessert, sea salt dessert, vegan option, summer treat, sesame citrus dessert
Ingredients
Base:
- 1 cup tahini (lightly roasted sesame paste)
- ½ cup almond flour
- ¼ cup chopped toasted pistachios
- ¼ cup chopped candied orange peel
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
- Pinch of sea salt flakes (Maldon or Gozo sea salt)
Sweetener & Binder:
- ⅓ cup honey (or carob syrup for a vegan version)
- ¼ cup coconut cream (chilled)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping:
- Crushed sesame brittle or sesame snaps
- Drizzle of carob syrup or pomegranate molasses
- Fresh mint (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the tahini and honey until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the almond flour, coconut cream, citrus zests, spices, and vanilla.
- Add a pinch of sea salt and gently mix in the pistachios and candied orange peel.
- Freeze & Set:
- Spoon the mixture into a silicone loaf mold or individual ramekins.
- Smooth the top and cover with cling film.
- Freeze for 4–5 hours until firm but sliceable (semifreddo texture).
- Serve:
- Remove from the freezer and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
- Slice and plate with crushed sesame brittle, a drizzle of carob syrup, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
- Garnish with mint leaves for color and freshness.
Enjoy this Maltese Semifreddo with a glass of chilled Limoncello tal-Malta or a robust Maltese coffee. Whether lounging seaside or reminiscing about past travels, this dessert will take you straight to the shores of the Mediterranean.
Enjoy your meal! Igawdu l-ikel tagħkom!
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