Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is the perfect treat for warm weather or anytime you want a creamy, indulgent dessert! The combination of fresh strawberries and fragrant vanilla beans creates a smooth, flavorful ice cream that’s rich yet refreshing. Here’s a simple, homemade recipe for you to try!
Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients:
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For the Strawberry Puree:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten the flavor)
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For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract)
- 4 large egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberry Puree:
- Place the chopped strawberries in a medium saucepan. Add the sugar and lemon juice (if using).
- Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and soften.
- Once the strawberries are softened, use a blender or immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
- Set aside and let the puree cool to room temperature. You can refrigerate it to cool faster, but it’s not necessary.
2. Make the Ice Cream Base:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is heated through, but not boiling.
- If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the pod to the cream mixture. If using vanilla extract, add it later with the eggs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Slowly pour about 1 cup of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the yolks and avoid curdling.
- Gradually pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream, stirring constantly.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 170°F to 175°F, or the custard should thicken enough that it leaves a trail when you run your finger through it).
- Remove from heat and discard the vanilla bean pod if using. Let the custard cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Combine the Strawberry Puree and Ice Cream Base:
- Once both the custard and strawberry puree are chilled, combine them in a bowl. Stir them together until smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, adding a little more sugar if the mixture is too tart.
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
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Pour the strawberry-vanilla mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for about 20-25 minutes. The ice cream should be thick and creamy.
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If you prefer small strawberry chunks in your ice cream, you can add the cooled strawberry puree to the churned ice cream during the last few minutes of churning. This will create a lovely marbled effect.
5. Freeze the Ice Cream:
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until it firms up to your desired consistency.
6. Serve:
- Once the ice cream is fully frozen, scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy your homemade Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream!
Tips:
- No Ice Cream Maker? You can still make this ice cream! After combining the base and puree, pour the mixture into a shallow container, cover, and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up ice crystals, and repeat until the ice cream is frozen (about 3-4 hours).
- Vanilla Bean vs. Extract: Vanilla beans have a richer, more complex flavor, but if you don’t have one, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract in the ice cream base.
- Add-ins: For some extra texture and flavor, you can fold in chopped strawberries, crushed graham crackers, or even a bit of chocolate when the ice cream is done churning.
This Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a classic combination that’s creamy, fruity, and packed with natural flavors. Perfect for a hot day or just as a sweet treat to satisfy your dessert cravings! Enjoy!