There’s nothing quite like a cool and creamy scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day. If you’re a fan of the rich and nutty flavor of hazelnuts, why not try making your own hazelnut ice cream at home? It’s surprisingly easy and will leave you wanting more. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this decadent dessert!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of heavy cream
– 1 cup of whole milk
– 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of hazelnut extract
– 3/4 cup of toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to steam. Be careful not to let it boil.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and egg yolks until well combined. Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
3. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and return it to the stove over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and hazelnut extract. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before refrigerating it for at least 2 hours, or overnight if preferred.
5. Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
6. Towards the end of the churning process, add the chopped hazelnuts to the ice cream maker and continue churning for an additional 5 minutes, or until the hazelnuts are evenly distributed.
7. Transfer the freshly churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm. This will allow the ice cream to reach the desired consistency.
8. When you’re ready to serve the ice cream, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften, making it easier to scoop. Garnish with additional toasted hazelnuts, if desired.
And there you have it – homemade hazelnut ice cream ready to be enjoyed! The combination of the creamy base, the subtle sweetness from the sugar, and the nutty flavor of the hazelnuts is absolutely divine. Whether you choose to enjoy it in a cone, a dish, or as a complement to your favorite dessert, this ice cream is sure to satisfy your cravings.
If you have any leftovers, be sure to store them tightly sealed in the freezer. However, it’s highly unlikely you’ll have much left, as this delightful treat tends to disappear rather quickly.
Now that you know how to make your own hazelnut ice cream, feel free to experiment with different variations. You can add chocolate chips or even swirl in some Nutella for an extra decadent twist. The possibilities are endless!
So, next time you’re in the mood for ice cream, head to the kitchen instead of the store. Making your own hazelnut ice cream will not only impress your friends and family but also provide you with a refreshing and delicious dessert that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Enjoy!