Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Indulge in the delightful combination of fresh strawberries and aromatic vanilla with this homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. This creamy, luscious treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet ending to any meal. The natural sweetness of strawberries paired with the rich flavor of vanilla bean creates a dessert that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is not just another frozen dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. The use of fresh strawberries ensures that every bite bursts with fruity goodness, while the vanilla bean adds depth and sophistication. Unlike store-bought varieties, this ice cream is made with simple, wholesome ingredients, allowing you to control the sweetness and flavor profile. Plus, making ice cream at home is a fun and rewarding experience that will impress family and friends alike.
Introduction
Ice cream is a beloved treat around the world, and for good reason. It’s creamy, sweet, and can be customized in countless ways. Among the myriad of flavors, strawberry and vanilla remain timeless classics. This recipe elevates the traditional strawberry ice cream by incorporating real vanilla bean, resulting in a rich and delicious dessert that is sure to become a favorite. Whether enjoyed in a cone, a bowl, or as a topping for pie, this Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a versatile and delightful addition to your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 6 large egg yolks
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and the seeds scraped from the vanilla bean. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries become soft and the sugar has completely dissolved. This process will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
Step 2:
While the strawberry mixture is cooling, prepare the custard base. In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream and whole milk over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can change the texture of the cream. Once simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Step 3:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are light and frothy. Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. This step is crucial to prevent the yolks from scrambling.
Step 4:
Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Be patient and keep the heat low to avoid curdling.
Step 5:
Once thickened, strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits. Allow the custard to cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate until it is completely chilled, preferably for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 6:
Once the custard is chilled, churn it in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This process usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
Step 7:
During the last few minutes of churning, add the cooled strawberry mixture to the ice cream maker. This will allow the strawberries to be evenly distributed throughout the ice cream.
Step 8:
Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze until firm, about 4 hours.
COOKING Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
This recipe is easy to follow and yields a deliciously creamy ice cream that is sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream in bowls or cones, topped with additional fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It also pairs beautifully with warm desserts like pie or cobbler, adding a delightful contrast of temperatures.
Tips:
- For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh strawberries. If strawberries are out of season, you can opt for frozen strawberries, but ensure they are thawed and excess moisture is drained.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this ice cream by pouring the custard into a shallow dish and freezing it. Stir every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals until it reaches a creamy consistency.
- Store the ice cream in an airtight container, and place a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
4 hours 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 60mg
Conclusion
Making your own ice cream at home can be a delightful culinary adventure, and this Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream recipe is a perfect place to start. With its rich, creamy texture and the vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries, this ice cream will surely be a hit at any gathering. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your labor.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before cooking.
2. How long can I store the ice cream in the freezer?
The ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks, although it’s best enjoyed fresh.
3. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond milk for a dairy-free version.
4. Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to this ice cream?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or other fruits during the last few minutes of churning for added flavor and texture.
5. What should I do if my ice cream is too hard after freezing?
If your ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping to soften it up.
