strawberry vanilla bean ice cream recipe

Introduction

This strawberry vanilla bean ice cream recipe is a sweet and creamy treat that’s perfect for warm weather. Made with fresh strawberries, vanilla beans, and a touch of sugar, this ice cream is a delicious and refreshing dessert that’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins and toppings, making it a fun and creative dessert to enjoy all summer long. Whether you’re a fan of classic vanilla, sweet strawberries, or adventurous mix-ins, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Why This Works

• The combination of fresh strawberries and vanilla beans creates a perfectly balanced flavor that’s both sweet and tangy.
• This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment.
• The use of high-quality ingredients, such as fresh strawberries and real vanilla beans, ensures that the final product is creamy, smooth, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup strawberry puree
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Step 2: Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Step 3: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container, discarding the solids. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Step 4: Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the sliced strawberries and continue to churn until they are fully incorporated.
5. Step 5: Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to set. Scoop and serve.

Handy Tips

• For the best flavor, use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh strawberries and real vanilla beans.
• If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can also freeze the mixture in a shallow metal pan and then blend it in a food processor once it’s frozen solid. This will give you a slightly chunkier texture.
• Consider adding other mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips, to create a unique and delicious flavor combination.

Heat Control

When heating the cream mixture, be careful not to let it boil, as this can cause the mixture to curdle and separate. Instead, heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this ice cream comes from the fresh strawberries, which add a sweet and fruity texture. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can also add other mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or cookie pieces.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a more intense strawberry flavor, use strawberry jam or preserves instead of fresh strawberries.
• Consider adding a splash of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau, to give the ice cream a grown-up twist.
• To prevent ice crystals from forming, make sure to churn the ice cream quickly and then transfer it to an airtight container to freeze.

Storage Tips

• Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 days.
• Consider transferring the ice cream to a shallow metal pan and freezing it solid, then scooping and serving. This will help to prevent ice crystals from forming.
• If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can also store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before freezing.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Consider packaging the ice cream in cute containers, such as mason jars or paper cups, and topping with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. You can also add a ribbon or gift tag to make it a special and thoughtful gift.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding different spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to give the ice cream a unique flavor.
• Consider using different types of milk, such as almond or coconut milk, to create a non-dairy version.
• Add other mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or chopped nuts, to create a delicious and chunky texture.

Troubleshooting

• If the ice cream is too icy, try adding a little more cream or sugar to balance out the flavor.
• If the ice cream is too soft, try freezing it for a longer period of time or adding a little more salt to balance out the flavor.
• If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can also freeze the mixture in a shallow metal pan and then blend it in a food processor once it’s frozen solid.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the ice cream for up to 3 days. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the freezer.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch of ice cream. Simply multiply the ingredients and follow the same instructions.

Conclusion

This strawberry vanilla bean ice cream recipe is a delicious and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm weather. With its creamy texture and sweet flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re a fan of classic vanilla, sweet strawberries, or adventurous mix-ins, this recipe is sure to please. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the sweet taste of summer in every bite!