Cherry Ice Cream

Cherry Ice Cream – The Sweet Indulgence of Summer

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1-2 hours
Total time: 1-2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a creamy ice cream on hot summer days? This cherry ice cream recipe will not only refresh your senses but also bring a touch of joy and nostalgia. Cherry ice cream has deep roots in culinary traditions, being a simple yet refined dessert that brings together the best flavors of summer. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients

- 1 fresh egg
- 100 ml whole milk
- 100 ml liquid cream
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 50 g sugar
- 100 g fresh cherries (or sour cherries), pitted
- Vanilla essence, to taste

Necessary utensils

- A mixer or whisk
- A heavy-bottomed saucepan
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- A large bowl for cooling
- A container for freezing

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the base mixture
Start by cracking the egg into a bowl. Add the sugar and mix well using the mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color. This step is essential, as the incorporated air will help the ice cream become fluffier.

2. Adding liquid ingredients
In the same bowl, add the milk and cornstarch. Mix gently so that the cornstarch dissolves completely. The cornstarch will give your ice cream consistency, providing a smooth texture.

3. Thickening the mixture
Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and place it over low heat. Here comes the important part: stir continuously with the spatula or wooden spoon for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Be careful not to let it boil, as this could turn the dessert into a sweet omelet!

4. Flavoring
Once the mixture has thickened, add the vanilla essence to taste. The vanilla will enhance the cherry flavor and add a touch of elegance to your dessert.

5. Cooling
Once the mixture has cooled, transfer it to a large bowl and let it cool completely at room temperature. Afterwards, you can place the bowl in the fridge to speed up the process.

6. Incorporating the cream
Once the mixture is cold, whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm. Gently fold it into the cooled mixture using the spatula. This step will make the ice cream light and airy.

7. Adding the cherries
Prepare the cherries by washing and pitting them. You can choose to mash them slightly with a fork or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Incorporate the cherries into the ice cream mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

8. Freezing
Transfer the mixture to the freezer container and cover it well. Let it freeze for 1-2 hours. If you prefer a quicker option, you can enjoy the ice cream in the form of "spaghetti" using a grater or a special tool to create delicious strands.

Chef's Tip

If you want to add a touch of originality, you can try mixing in a little lemon or orange juice to enhance the cherry flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cherries, such as sour or sweet ones, to achieve a unique ice cream flavor.

Serving

Cherry ice cream can be served plain, but I recommend presenting it with a chocolate sauce or a drizzle of honey for a delicious contrast. Add a touch of elegance with a few fresh mint leaves or toasted almond flakes on top.

Nutritional Information

This cherry ice cream is not only a treat but also an excellent source of antioxidants from cherries. One serving (approximately 150 g) contains about 180 calories, making it a relatively healthy choice for a dessert. Cherries are rich in vitamins A and C, while milk and cream provide calcium and protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other fruits?
Of course! This recipe works perfectly with other fruits such as peaches, raspberries, or strawberries.

- How can I avoid ice crystals?
To prevent ice crystals from forming, make sure to stir the ice cream every 30 minutes during the first 2 hours of freezing.

- How long can the ice cream be stored?
Cherry ice cream can be stored in the freezer for about 2-3 weeks. Make sure it is well covered to prevent absorbing odors from the freezer.

Delicious Combinations

Cherry ice cream pairs wonderfully with a glass of sweet wine or a warm fruit tea. You can create an unmatched dessert by serving it alongside a chocolate tart or a moist cake, and the combination will be truly memorable.

In conclusion, cherry ice cream is not just a dessert, but an experience that can transform an ordinary day into an unforgettable memory. Prepare it with love and enjoy every bite!