Are you craving the rich, decadent flavor of coffee ice cream but don't own an ice cream maker? Don't despair! This simple recipe allows you to whip up a creamy, homemade coffee ice cream without any fancy equipment. It's a perfect example of how delicious homemade cooking can be, even with limited tools. Get ready for a delightful treat that's both easy and satisfying – perfect for a quick dessert or a special occasion. This recipe is one of the best recipes for a simple, delicious dessert, and it falls into the category of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, especially if you're looking for healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee, cooled (about 2-3 shots of espresso)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is just simmering. Don't let it boil.
Infuse the coffee flavor:
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Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cooled coffee and vanilla extract. The cooled coffee is key to prevent the mixture from curdling. Stir well to combine.
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Add a pinch of salt to enhance the coffee flavor. This is a simple trick that elevates many recipes.
Chill and freeze:
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Pour the mixture into a shallow, airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling step is crucial for a smooth, creamy texture.
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Once chilled, place the container in the freezer. Every hour, remove the ice cream mixture and vigorously whisk it with a fork to break up any ice crystals that have formed. Repeat this process for at least 3-4 hours, or until the ice cream reaches your desired consistency.
Tips for the Best Coffee Ice Cream:
- Use high-quality coffee: The flavor of your coffee ice cream will depend heavily on the coffee you use. Invest in good beans or espresso for the best results.
- Don't rush the chilling process: Allowing the mixture to chill thoroughly before freezing is essential for preventing ice crystals from forming too quickly.
- Whisk frequently: The key to smooth, creamy ice cream without an ice cream maker is frequent whisking during the freezing process. This helps break up ice crystals and creates a smoother texture.
- Adjust sweetness to your preference: If you prefer a sweeter ice cream, add a little more sugar. If you like it less sweet, reduce the amount.
Variations:
- Chocolate Coffee Ice Cream: Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture along with the coffee.
- Hazelnut Coffee Ice Cream: Stir in ½ cup of hazelnut liqueur or add toasted and chopped hazelnuts after freezing.
- Spiced Coffee Ice Cream: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm, comforting flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 3g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Enjoy your delicious homemade coffee ice cream! It's the perfect way to end a meal or enjoy a sweet treat on a warm day. This is an example of healthy meals you can prepare easily. This easy recipe is also perfect as a quick dinner idea. Let me know how you enjoyed your homemade coffee ice cream in the comments below!