π¨ Hazelnut Ice Cream Recipe π¨
Overview:
Hazelnut Ice Cream is a decadent treat that elevates the humble nut to new heights. This recipe, adapted from a beloved ice cream book, promises a creamy, nutty delight that will have your taste buds singing. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, surpassing the ordinary with its rich flavors and delightful texture.
Ingredients:
Amount | Ingredient |
---|---|
1/2 cup | Hazelnuts |
2 cups | Half-and-Half |
2/3 cup | Sugar |
6 | Egg Yolks |
1 cup | Heavy Whipping Cream |
1 teaspoon | Vanilla Extract |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 2686.1
- Fat: 209.1g
- Saturated Fat: 101.2g
- Cholesterol: 1638mg
- Sodium: 332.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 175.4g
- Fiber: 6.5g
- Sugar: 137.8g
- Protein: 43.9g
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 45 minutes
Total Time:
- 55 minutes
Yield:
- 1 quart
Instructions:
-
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
-
Toast the Hazelnuts:
- Place the hazelnuts on a baking pan and bake for about 10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
-
Remove Skins:
- Transfer the toasted hazelnuts to a cloth towel.
- Wrap the nuts up and rub them together until their papery skins come off.
-
Cool Nuts:
- Allow the nuts to cool completely.
-
Grind the Nuts:
- Using a blender or food processor, grind the hazelnuts until they are finely ground.
- The nuts should start to release their oils but still have some texture.
-
Prepare the Base:
- In a double boiler, combine the half-and-half with the ground hazelnuts.
- Cook over simmering water for 15 minutes, infusing the creamy base with nutty goodness.
-
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg yolks until well combined.
-
Temper the Eggs:
- Gradually whisk some of the hot half-and-half mixture into the egg yolks.
- This process tempers the eggs, preventing them from scrambling when added to the hot mixture.
-
Combine and Cook:
- Return the egg yolk mixture to the pan with the remaining half-and-half.
- Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- This custard base is the heart of your ice cream, rich and velvety.
-
Cool the Custard:
- Once the custard is done, place the pan in a larger pan filled with very cold water.
- Stir the custard until it cools down.
- This step ensures a smooth and creamy texture for your ice cream.
-
Add the Cream:
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract.
- For an extra kick, you can also add a splash of Frangelico liqueur, enhancing the hazelnut flavor.
-
Chill Overnight:
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate it overnight, or until thoroughly chilled.
- This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a more complex ice cream.
-
Churn the Ice Cream:
- Transfer the chilled mixture to your ice cream maker.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning.
- The ice cream should be churned until thick and creamy, with a soft serve consistency.
-
Freeze:
- Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- This step allows the ice cream to set and develop its full, luscious texture.
-
Serve and Enjoy! π
- Scoop the hazelnut ice cream into bowls or cones.
- Garnish with chopped hazelnuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce, if desired.
- Indulge in the creamy, nutty goodness of homemade hazelnut ice cream, a treat that’s sure to impress!
π° Tips & Variations:
- Toasted Hazelnuts: Toasting the hazelnuts enhances their flavor. Keep an eye on them in the oven to prevent burning.
- Nut Variations: Feel free to experiment with other nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for a different flavor profile.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. You can also use alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Liqueur Options: Replace the vanilla extract with other liqueurs for a unique twist. Amaretto or hazelnut liqueur complement the nutty flavor beautifully.
- Texture: For a chunkier ice cream, fold in chopped hazelnuts or chocolate chunks before freezing.
- Storage: Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for easier serving.
π¨ Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy a scoop of hazelnut ice cream on its own for a delightful dessert.
- Create an indulgent sundae with caramel sauce, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.
- Pair with a warm brownie or freshly baked cookies for the ultimate ice cream sandwich.
- Use as a decadent filling for homemade ice cream cakes or pies.
π Conclusion:
With its rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture, this Hazelnut Ice Cream is a showstopper dessert that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether enjoyed on a sunny day or as a comforting treat by the fire, it’s a homemade delight that beats store-bought any day. Treat yourself to a scoop (or two!) of this heavenly ice cream, and savor the flavors of homemade goodness. Your taste buds will thank you! π¦β¨