Honey Lavender Ice Cream: A Soothing and Sweet Treat

Gardening tips aren’t the only thing that benefit from a touch of nature. Dive into the calming flavors of Our Honey Lavender Ice Cream, a treat that’s both indulgent and health-conscious. Perfect for those who cherish floral notes combined with smooth creaminess. With ingredients packed with natural nutrients, this recipe offers a delightful take on homemade ice cream without artificial sweeteners.

Why This Recipe Works

• Uses honey instead of refined sugar for natural sweetness.
• Lavender offers calming properties along with a unique flavor twist.
• I feel confident knowing each ingredient is wholesome and nutritious.
• The base of organic cream ensures a rich yet health-conscious dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon culinary-grade dried lavender
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Fine-mesh sieve
• Ice cream maker
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

Infuse the Cream

In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and dried lavender. Set the heat to medium, stirring occasionally to ensure the mixture doesn’t scald. Once it reaches a gentle simmer, reduce the heat and let it steep for 15 minutes. This step ensures the lavender infuses its soothing, floral essence without overpowering the cream. Remember patience is key to achieving a balanced flavor profile.

Strain and Sweeten the Mixture

After steeping, strain the cream mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a mixing bowl to remove the lavender flowers. Return the strained liquid to the saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the honey, stirring until fully dissolved. The honey not only sweetens but also adds a depth that complements the lavender beautifully.

Prepare the Custard Base

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks until they’re light and slightly thickened. Gradually pour in the warm lavender-infused mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook on low, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Avoid overheating to maintain a smooth texture.

Enhance with Vanilla

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla enhances the overall flavor, offering a subtle sweetness that pairs remarkably well with honey and lavender. Pour the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, eliminating any unintended egg bits or lavender remnants.

Chill and Churn

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until completely cold. Once ready, churn the custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This churned delight is creamy and packed with soothing nuances, making it worth the wait.

Tips and Tricks

• Ensure proper steeping time for ideal lavender flavor—15 minutes is usually perfect.
• Using a candy thermometer can help maintain the mixture’s temperature, preventing curdling.
• A little bit of optional lemon zest can enhance the freshness of the ice cream.

Recipe Variations

• Add a touch of lemon juice or zest for a citrusy twist.
• Substitute half of the honey with agave for a lighter flavor.
• For a richer version, use all cream and omit the milk.
• Add a handful of crushed blueberries during the final minutes of churning.
• Incorporate a swirl of dark chocolate ganache for a decadent touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried? Yes, you can use fresh lavender, but be mindful that the flavor will be more intense. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.

What type of honey is best? Clover honey or wildflower honey are the best choices due to their mild flavors, which allow the lavender to shine. Avoid using strongly flavored honey, like buckwheat.

How long will the ice cream last in the freezer? When stored properly in an airtight container, the ice cream should retain its quality for up to two weeks, though it can technically last longer.

Is this recipe suitable for egg allergies? Unfortunately, this recipe isn’t suitable for those with egg allergies. However, you could experiment with a custard-free base.

Summary

Delight in the calming taste of homemade honey lavender ice cream, melding sweet and floral notes in a creamy base. A soothing treat to enjoy any time of year.