Olive Oil Ice Cream is a creamy, luxurious dessert that beautifully highlights the rich, fruity flavors of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This unique ice cream offers a subtle yet distinct flavor profile, with the olive oil adding a velvety texture and a slightly savory note to balance the sweetness of the custard base. Perfect for adventurous eaters and food enthusiasts, this dessert is both sophisticated and simple to make, offering a refreshing twist on traditional ice cream. Pair it with a sprinkle of sea salt or fresh fruit for an elevated treat that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Heat the milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
- Whisk the eggs and sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and slightly thickened.
- Temper the eggs: Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling the eggs. Once combined, return the mixture to the saucepan.
- Cook the custard: Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Add olive oil and vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the olive oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix well until smooth.
- Chill the mixture: Pour the custard into a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until completely chilled.
- Churn the ice cream: Once chilled, pour the custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 20-25 minutes, until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze and serve: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up. Serve with a drizzle of extra olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt, or pair with fresh berries.
This Olive Oil Ice Cream is a rich and creamy dessert that offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory, perfect for those looking to try something unique and sophisticated!
