Forget everything you think you know about ice cream. This sweet corn ice cream recipe is a revelation – a creamy, subtly sweet, and utterly unexpected summer dessert that will leave you craving more. It's surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients, and the result is a truly unique and delightful homemade treat perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cool, delicious evening. This recipe is a fantastic example of how easy healthy meals can be!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh sweet corn kernels (about 4 ears)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Get Started:
- First, shuck the corn and remove the kernels. You can use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob, ensuring you get as much of the milky goodness as possible.
Cook the Corn:
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In a medium saucepan, combine the corn kernels, heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the corn kernels are tender and the mixture has slightly thickened. Stir frequently to avoid scorching.
Blend and Chill:
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Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, carefully transfer it to a blender (or use an immersion blender).
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Blend until completely smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining corn pieces for an exceptionally smooth texture (optional but recommended).
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Pour the mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to chill thoroughly.
Churn and Freeze:
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Churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
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Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to firm up further before serving.
Tips for Sweet Corn Ice Cream Success:
- Fresh Corn is Best: Using fresh, in-season sweet corn will make a huge difference in the flavor of your ice cream. The sweeter the corn, the better the ice cream!
- Don't Overcook the Corn: Overcooked corn can become mushy and affect the texture of the ice cream. Aim for tender but not falling-apart kernels.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter ice cream, feel free to add more sugar. Start with ¾ cup and adjust to your liking.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Consider adding other flavors like a pinch of cinnamon, a squeeze of lime juice, or some toasted coconut flakes for extra deliciousness.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Corn Ice Cream: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture before blending for a kick.
- Brown Butter Sweet Corn Ice Cream: For a nutty depth of flavor, brown the butter before adding it to the corn mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and quantities used.
This sweet corn ice cream recipe is a testament to the versatility of simple ingredients. It’s a quick dinner idea turned delicious dessert, showcasing the unexpected deliciousness of homemade cooking. The creamy texture and unique flavor profile make it a perfect end to any summer meal. Enjoy!