Forget store-bought! This homemade plum ice cream recipe is surprisingly simple, incredibly delicious, and a perfect way to showcase the vibrant flavors of ripe plums. Whether you're looking for easy recipes for a quick dessert or a healthy addition to your meal plan, this recipe delivers a delightful homemade treat that's sure to impress. Get ready to experience the best plum ice cream you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ripe plums (about 6-8 medium), pitted and roughly chopped
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Plum Compote
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped plums, sugar, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the plums are very soft and have broken down. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and let the compote cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
- Once the plum compote is completely cool, use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a regular blender) to puree it until completely smooth.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and whole milk until smooth.
- Pour the cooled plum puree into the cream mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling step is essential for a creamy texture.
Step 3: Churning the Ice Cream
- Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
- Once churned, the ice cream will be soft-serve consistency.
Step 4: Hardening the Ice Cream
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm. This allows the ice cream to harden properly and develop its creamy texture.
Tips for the Best Plum Ice Cream:
- Plum Selection: Use ripe, but not overripe, plums for the best flavor and texture. Slightly underripe plums can be used, but increase the sugar slightly to compensate for tartness.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking, depending on the sweetness of your plums. Taste the compote before blending and add more sugar if needed.
- Freezing Time: Don't rush the hardening process! Allow the ice cream to freeze completely for the best texture.
Variations:
- Spiced Plum Ice Cream: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the plum compote for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Plum and Almond Ice Cream: Toast some slivered almonds and stir them into the ice cream before freezing.
- Boozy Plum Ice Cream: Add a tablespoon or two of your favorite plum brandy or liqueur to the mixture for an adult twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your servings and the specific type of plums used. For a rough estimate, expect around 250-300 calories, 15-20 grams of fat, and 20-25 grams of sugar per serving. This is only an estimate, and using a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and measurements is recommended for accurate nutritional information. This delicious recipe provides a great source of vitamins and antioxidants from the plums.
This homemade plum ice cream recipe is a delightful and rewarding cooking experience, perfect for any skill level. Enjoy this healthy and delicious dessert!