Honey Ice Cream
This creamy Honey Ice Cream recipe is a simple, delicious treat that combines the natural sweetness of honey with rich cream. With just a few ingredients and a simple process, you can enjoy a luxurious homemade ice cream that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served on its own or with your favorite toppings, this ice cream is sure to be a hit!
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker (1)
- Mixing Bowls (2-3)
- Whisk (1)
- Saucepan (1)
- Strainer (1)
- Storage Container (1)
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup honey
- 5 large egg yolks optional, for custard base
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt optional, enhances sweetness
Instructions
Prepare the Custard (if using eggs):
- In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until warm. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and honey until smooth. Gradually pour a little bit of the warm milk and cream into the egg mixture to temper the eggs. Slowly add the tempered eggs back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and reaches 170°F. Remove from heat and strain the custard to remove any curdled bits.
Mix the Base:
- If you’re not using eggs, simply combine the cream, milk, and honey in a large bowl. Whisk together until the honey dissolves completely. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if desired.
Chill the Mixture:
- Refrigerate the custard or honey mixture for 2-4 hours or until fully chilled. This step ensures a smoother texture when churning.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually for 20-30 minutes, until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Freeze and Firm Up:
- Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container. Cover with parchment paper and seal with a lid. Freeze for at least 4-6 hours to firm up before serving.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones, and enjoy! Optionally, top with fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey.
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit in the last few minutes of churning.
- Honey Variations: Different types of honey (such as clover, buckwheat, or acacia) can alter the flavor of the ice cream. Choose a honey that suits your taste preference.
- No Ice Cream Maker? You can still make honey ice cream by placing the mixture in a shallow dish and freezing it. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes for the first 3 hours to break up any ice crystals and create a smoother texture.
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. If it becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.