Forget those store-bought tubs! This pear ice cream recipe is surprisingly simple to make, delivering a luxuriously creamy and naturally sweet dessert that's perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals you can easily whip up at home, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful homemade cooking creation!
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe but firm pears, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to your preference based on pear sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pears
Begin by peeling, coring, and chopping your pears. Ripe pears are key here—they’ll contribute the most flavor to your ice cream. If your pears are on the less ripe side, you might consider adding a tablespoon or two of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Step 2: Simmer the Pear Mixture
Combine the chopped pears, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pears should soften significantly, almost melting into the cream mixture. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Blend for Smoothness
Once the pears are soft, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until completely smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Churn and Freeze
Pour the blended pear mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically takes 20-30 minutes. The ice cream will start to thicken significantly as it churns.
Step 5: Harden (Optional)
Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to harden further. This step allows the ice cream to achieve a firmer consistency.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of pear liqueur or brandy to the mixture before blending.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and complements the pear flavor beautifully.
- Boost the creaminess: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a vegan option (you might need to adjust the sweetness accordingly).
- Add texture: Fold in chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work well) or a swirl of caramel sauce once the ice cream is churned.
- Make it ahead: This ice cream can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together even further.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Sugar: 20-25g
This pear ice cream recipe is a delightful combination of easy recipes and delicious dishes. It's a perfect example of quick dinner ideas (well, dessert ideas!) that showcase the beauty of homemade cooking. Enjoy this refreshing and healthy treat!