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Zefir

A classic sweet confectionery made from whipped apple puree, egg white, and sugar syrup set with agar-agar. It has a pillowy texture with a delicate, fruity flavor.

45 minMediumServes 12110 cal/serving

RussianDessertMixedVegetarianHalal-friendlyKosher-styleGluten-FreeNut-FreeDairy-FreeSoy-FreeShellfish-FreeSesame-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeAlcohol-FreeNightshade-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsweetened apple puree
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg white
  • 2 tsp agar-agar powder
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a small saucepan, combine 2 tsp agar-agar powder and 1/2 cup water, then bring to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring.

  2. 2

    Add 1.5 cups granulated sugar to the saucepan, stir continuously, and boil until the syrup reaches 230 degrees F.

  3. 3

    In a large bowl, whip 1 cup unsweetened apple puree and 1 large egg white on high speed until pale and voluminous.

  4. 4

    Slowly stream the hot syrup into the whipped puree mixture while beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.

  5. 5

    Pipe into swirling mounds on parchment paper, let set at room temperature for 12 hours, then dust with 1/4 cup sifted powdered sugar.

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Questions

What is Zefir?

A classic sweet confectionery made from whipped apple puree, egg white, and sugar syrup set with agar-agar. It has a pillowy texture with a delicate, fruity flavor. This reference files it under Russian dessert: rated medium and about 45 minutes start to finish.

How long does Zefir take?

As written, 45 minutes: 30 of prep and 15 of cooking. The longest single stretch is the hands-off wait in step 5, 12 hours. That wait sits outside the stated prep and cook times, so plan around it.

What internal temperature should Zefir reach?

For Zefir, the target internal temperature is 230 F (about 110 C), given in step 2. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

What can I use instead of powdered sugar in Zefir?

The entry for Zefir calls for 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted. In its place: Blend granulated sugar with a teaspoon of cornstarch per cup until fine.

Is Zefir vegan?

No, though it is vegetarian. What keeps it from vegan is 1 large egg white. For fully plant-based entries, see the vegan dessert collection.

How many calories are in Zefir?

One serving (the recipe makes 12) is about 110 calories, with 1 g protein, 27 g carbohydrate and 0 g fat, plus 1 g fiber and 10 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

How long does Zefir keep?

Keep Zefir covered in the refrigerator and eat it within three days. Chilled and set desserts lose their texture in the freezer.

Serve it with

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