Honey Ice Cream
Description
Honey ice cream is a naturally sweet, creamy dessert that highlights the rich floral flavor of pure honey. Unlike regular sugar-based ice cream, this version has a unique smoothness and depth of flavor. It’s simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be prepared with or without an ice cream maker. Perfect for hot days or as a gourmet twist on classic ice cream.
Ingredients For Honey Ice Cream
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2 cups heavy cream
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1 cup whole milk
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½ cup pure honey (use high-quality, raw honey for best flavor)
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4 large egg yolks
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
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Warm the milk & honey:
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In a saucepan, combine milk and honey. Heat gently until warm (don’t boil), stirring until honey dissolves.
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Temper the egg yolks:
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In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with a pinch of salt. Slowly add a little warm milk mixture into the yolks while whisking to prevent curdling.
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Cook the custard:
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Return the tempered yolk mixture to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (170–175°F / 77–80°C).
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Add cream & vanilla:
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Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
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Chill:
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Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate 3–4 hours or overnight until fully chilled.
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Churn:
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Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
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If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour mixture into a freezer-safe container, stir every 30 minutes until firm and creamy.
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Freeze & serve:
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Transfer to an airtight container. Freeze 4–6 hours before serving.
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️ Servings
Makes about 6 servings (1 pint / 3 cups).
Notes
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Use light, floral honey (like clover or wildflower) for a delicate flavor, or darker honey (like buckwheat) for a richer taste.
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For extra flavor, swirl in crushed nuts, cinnamon, or caramelized fruit before freezing.
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If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with milk.
Tips
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Always chill the custard base fully before churning for best texture.
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If the custard curdles slightly, blend with an immersion blender to smooth it out.
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Drizzle extra honey on top before serving for presentation.
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Serve with warm pies, grilled peaches, or baklava for a perfect pairing.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 280
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Protein: 4 g
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Fat: 18 g
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Carbohydrates: 25 g
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Sugar: 23 g
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Fiber: 0 g
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Calcium: 120 mg
Benefits
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Natural sweetness: Uses honey instead of refined sugar.
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Antioxidants: Honey provides polyphenols that help fight free radicals.
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Digestive aid: Honey may soothe the gut and support digestion.
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Rich in calcium & protein (from milk and cream) for bone and muscle health.
❓ Q/A
Q1: Can I make it without eggs?
Yes, replace the custard base with just milk, cream, honey, and cornstarch (as a thickener).
Q2: Can I use flavored honey?
Yes! Lavender, orange blossom, or rosemary honey gives a gourmet twist.
Q3: How long does it last in the freezer?
Up to 2 weeks in an airtight container (texture may harden after that).
Q4: Can I make it vegan?
Yes, substitute with coconut cream + almond milk, and use maple syrup or vegan honey alternative.
Q5: Why is my ice cream too icy?
Either the custard wasn’t chilled enough before freezing, or it wasn’t churned frequently when using the no-machine method.