Description

Nothing beats the creamy, refreshing taste of homemade ice cream, especially when it’s packed with the sweet and vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries and the rich essence of vanilla bean. This Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a delightful fusion of two classic flavors, creating a luxurious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of smooth vanilla custard and sweet, slightly tangy strawberries makes this ice cream a standout treat that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or as a special dessert after dinner, this ice cream is pure indulgence in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 6 large egg yolks

Preparation Method

1. Combine hulled and sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and vanilla bean seeds in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until strawberries soften and sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

2. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and whole milk. Heat over medium until it simmers, then remove from heat.

3. Whisk egg yolks in a medium bowl until smooth. Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the yolks while whisking to temper them.

4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly for 8-10 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

5. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

6. Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to instructions. Add the cooled strawberry mixture during the last few minutes.

7. Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours until firm enough to scoop.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For an extra burst of flavor, you can roast the strawberries in the oven before cooking them with the sugar and vanilla. Roasting the strawberries enhances their natural sweetness and adds a subtle caramelized note to the ice cream.

Conclusion:
This Strawberry Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is a true delight for the senses, combining the rich, creamy texture of homemade ice cream with the bright, fruity flavor of fresh strawberries. The addition of real vanilla bean elevates this dessert to a whole new level of indulgence, making it a perfect treat for special occasions or a luxurious everyday dessert. With its smooth texture and vibrant flavor, this ice cream is sure to become a favorite in your household. So grab your ice cream maker and treat yourself to this homemade masterpiece—you won’t regret it!