Honey ice cream is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the natural sweetness of honey with the creamy texture of traditional ice cream. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the rich, golden flavor of honey and wants to enjoy a homemade treat that’s both natural and delicious. Did you know that honey has natural antibacterial properties and is rich in antioxidants? This makes honey ice cream not only tasty but also a healthier alternative to other sugary desserts.
Yields, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Calories per Serving
| Yields | 1 Quart |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 4 hours 35 minutes (including chilling time) |
| Calories per Serving | 250 kcal |
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
Step 2: While the milk and cream are heating, whisk together the egg yolks, honey, and salt in a separate bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the honey is fully incorporated.
Step 3: Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Once combined, return the mixture to the saucepan.
Step 4: Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture boil.
Step 5: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
Step 6: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until completely chilled.
Step 7: Once chilled, churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Transfer the churned ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 135 mg |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Sugars | 26 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Watch the video below for a lovely homemade honey-vanilla ice cream recipe:
Tips and Shortcuts
For a quicker version of this honey ice cream recipe, you can use store-bought vanilla ice cream. Simply let the ice cream soften slightly and then fold in the honey. Refreeze until firm.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of honey for unique flavors. Wildflower honey adds a floral note, while buckwheat honey gives a deeper, more robust taste. You can also add mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fresh berries for added texture and flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Ice cream maker
- Spatula
- Lidded container
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover honey ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 weeks, though it’s best enjoyed within the first week for optimal texture and flavor.
Food and Drink Pairings
This honey ice cream pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, especially berries and stone fruits like peaches and plums. It’s also delicious served alongside a slice of warm apple pie or drizzled with a bit of extra honey for an extra-sweet treat.
Whether you’re looking for a delightful dessert to impress guests or a sweet treat to enjoy on a hot day, this honey ice cream recipe is sure to become a favorite. Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and tips!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is honey good on ice cream?
A: Yes, honey is an excellent topping for ice cream. It adds natural sweetness and a rich flavor that complements the creamy texture of the ice cream.
Q: Is honey a good sweetener for ice cream?
A: Absolutely! Honey is a natural sweetener that not only adds sweetness but also enhances the flavor and provides health benefits such as antioxidants and antibacterial properties.
Q: What is honeycomb ice cream made of?
A: Honeycomb ice cream typically consists of vanilla ice cream mixed with crunchy honeycomb toffee pieces. The toffee pieces add a delightful crunch and a deep caramelized honey flavor.
Q: Can you put honey on top of ice cream?
A: Yes, drizzling honey on top of ice cream is a simple and delicious way to enhance its flavor. The honey adds a natural sweetness and a lovely contrast to the cold, creamy ice cream.
