Introduction

Bourbon Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a luxurious dessert that combines the richness of vanilla beans with the subtle warmth of bourbon, creating a delightful frozen indulgence. This ice cream offers a sophisticated twist to the classic vanilla flavor.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the depth of flavor that comes from combining vanilla beans and bourbon in a creamy ice cream base. If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent desserts and enjoy a hint of bourbon in your treats, this Bourbon Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is an ideal choice.

Why It’s Great

The charm of Bourbon Vanilla Bean Ice Cream lies in the intense flavor of real vanilla beans complemented by the mellow warmth of bourbon. This combination results in a creamy and luxurious ice cream that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a sophisticated dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1 vanilla bean pod, split lengthwise
• 6 large egg yolks
• 2-3 tablespoons bourbon (adjust to taste)

Directions

1. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt over medium heat. Scrape the seeds from the split vanilla bean pod and add both the seeds and the pod to the saucepan. Heat the mixture until it starts to simmer, then remove it from the heat.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth.
3. Gradually pour a small amount of the hot cream mixture into the bowl with the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
4. Slowly add the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture, stirring constantly.
5. Return the saucepan to medium-low heat and cook the custard mixture, stirring continuously, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the vanilla bean pod and any cooked bits.
7. Stir in the bourbon, adjusting the amount to your taste preference.
8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the custard in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
9. Churn the chilled custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
10. Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for an additional 4 hours or until firm.

Kitchen Equipment

• Saucepan
• Whisk and spatula
• Fine-mesh sieve
• Ice cream maker
• Freezer-safe container with a lid

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bourbon Vanilla Bean Ice Cream in bowls or cones. For an extra touch, garnish with a fresh vanilla bean pod or a drizzle of bourbon.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Bourbon Vanilla Bean Ice Cream in a freezer-safe container with a lid for up to 2-3 weeks.

Recipe Variations

For added texture and flavor, consider folding in chopped toasted pecans or chocolate chunks into the ice cream before freezing.

Conclusion

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Bourbon Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, where the richness of vanilla beans meets the subtle warmth of bourbon in a creamy frozen delight. Enjoy this sophisticated dessert that elevates the classic vanilla ice cream experience.