Lavender Honey Ice Cream is a unique and aromatic dessert that combines the delicate, floral notes of lavender with the rich sweetness of honey. This creamy treat is perfect for those who enjoy sophisticated flavors and want to try something a bit different from the usual ice cream varieties. The combination of lavender and honey creates a balanced and refreshing dessert that’s ideal for warm weather or any time you want a taste of something special.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tbsp dried culinary lavender
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Infuse the Cream:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, honey, and dried lavender.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat, cover, and let the mixture steep for 20-30 minutes, allowing the lavender to infuse its flavor into the cream.
2. Strain the Mixture:
- After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the lavender buds.
- Press down on the lavender with a spoon to extract as much flavor as possible, then discard the lavender.
3. Prepare the Custard:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are pale and thick.
- Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent them from curdling.
- Return the custard mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 170°F to 175°F or 77°C to 80°C). Do not let the mixture boil, as this can cause the custard to curdle.
4. Chill the Custard:
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the custard into a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate the custard for at least 4 hours or overnight, until it is completely chilled.
5. Churn the Ice Cream:
- Once the custard is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until it reaches your desired firmness.
6. Serve:
- Scoop the Lavender Honey Ice Cream into bowls or cones and enjoy the floral, honey-sweetened goodness.
- For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of honey over the top or garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender.
Tips for Success
- Culinary Lavender: Make sure to use culinary-grade lavender, as it is safe for consumption and has a milder flavor compared to ornamental lavender.
- Honey: The type of honey you use can affect the flavor of the ice cream. A mild honey will let the lavender flavor shine, while a stronger honey, like buckwheat or wildflower, will add a more robust flavor.
- Chilling: Chilling the custard thoroughly before churning is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy texture in the final ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Lavender Honey Ice Cream is a versatile dessert that pairs beautifully with other flavors. Serve it alongside a slice of lemon cake, with fresh berries, or simply on its own for a refreshing and aromatic treat. It’s also a great palate cleanser between courses during a multi-course meal.
Conclusion
Lavender Honey Ice Cream is an elegant and refreshing dessert that brings a touch of sophistication to any occasion. The delicate floral notes of lavender, combined with the natural sweetness of honey, create a flavor profile that’s both unique and irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it on a quiet afternoon, this ice cream is sure to delight your taste buds with its enchanting blend of flavors.