Are you dreaming of a cool, creamy dessert that’s both sophisticated and satisfying? Look no further! This Coffee Cookies and Cream Ice Cream recipe is the perfect blend of rich coffee flavor, crunchy cookie bits, and velvety smooth creaminess. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home, requiring no fancy ice cream maker, and tastes far superior to store-bought options. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant homemade dessert – a delightful addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. This recipe fits perfectly into a healthy meals plan too, as it is easily adaptable.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (Oreos or similar)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brewing the Coffee
Start by brewing your favorite strong coffee. Let it cool completely before using it in the ice cream. This step is crucial for avoiding a grainy texture in your finished ice cream.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cooled coffee, vanilla extract, and salt until the sugar is fully dissolved. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure even flavor distribution throughout the ice cream.
Step 3: Adding the Cookies
Gently fold in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. Be careful not to overmix; a few cookie pieces remaining whole adds a nice textural contrast.
Step 4: Freezing the Ice Cream
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Step 5: Freezing and Serving
Freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the ice cream to fully set. Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. This will make scooping much easier.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Coffee Cookies and Cream Ice Cream:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your ice cream will be directly influenced by the quality of your ingredients. Opt for good quality heavy cream, whole milk, and coffee for the best results.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the ice cream base can incorporate too much air, resulting in a less creamy texture. Gentle folding is key.
- Freeze in a shallow container: A shallower container will help the ice cream freeze more quickly and evenly.
- Add more coffee: For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the amount of cooled coffee to 1/3 cup.
- Get creative with cookie choices: Experiment with different types of cookies! Shortbread, biscotti, or even graham crackers would offer unique flavor profiles.
Variations:
- Espresso Ice Cream: For a more intense coffee flavor, replace the brewed coffee with 2-3 tablespoons of strong espresso.
- Boozy Ice Cream: Add a shot of your favorite coffee liqueur for an adult twist.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a reasonable estimate per serving (assuming 6 servings) is:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 14-18g
- Sugar: 25-30g
Enjoy your homemade Coffee Cookies and Cream Ice Cream! It’s a delicious and easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe makes a great homemade cooking project and is guaranteed to become one of your best recipes. It's a fantastic addition to any collection of delicious dishes and healthy meals.