Are you a coffee lover with a sweet tooth? Then prepare yourself for a flavor explosion! This Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream recipe is the perfect blend of rich, robust coffee and creamy, dreamy ice cream. It’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring no fancy equipment or skills. This homemade treat is perfect for a hot summer day or a cozy night in, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, even if dessert is your dinner. It's also a guilt-free indulgence that falls under the category of healthy meals, given the potential for using healthier ingredients! Let's dive into this delicious and refreshing recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strong cold brew coffee (recipe below)
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips, coffee beans for garnish
Making Your Cold Brew Coffee:
- 1 cup coarsely ground coffee
- 4 cups cold, filtered water
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cold Brew Coffee
Combine the ground coffee and cold water in a non-reactive container (glass or food-grade plastic). Stir well and let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours, or preferably overnight. This slow brewing process extracts a smooth, less bitter flavor. Once steeped, filter the coffee through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth lined strainer into a clean container.
Step 2: Churn the Ice Cream Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the cold brew coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Freeze the Mixture
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Harden the Ice Cream (Optional)
Once churned, the ice cream will be soft-serve consistency. For a firmer texture, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours before serving. Adding chocolate chips at this stage will create a delicious swirl.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. Garnish with coffee beans, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
Tips for the Best Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream:
- Use high-quality coffee: The flavor of your cold brew will directly impact the taste of your ice cream. Invest in good coffee beans for the best results.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet ice cream, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk. You can also experiment with other sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
- Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Try adding chocolate shavings, nuts, or even a swirl of caramel sauce.
Variations:
- Mocha Cold Brew Ice Cream: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the ice cream base.
- Salted Caramel Cold Brew Ice Cream: Swirl in some homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce after churning.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a general idea, a standard serving could contain approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the type of coffee beans and added ingredients.
This Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert. Enjoy this delicious homemade treat, perfect for satisfying your cravings for delicious dishes and best recipes. It's a fantastic recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks, proving that homemade cooking can be both enjoyable and simple.