Cocoa ice cream with raisins and rum

Cocoa ice cream with raisins and rum: A perfect treat for hot days

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Who doesn’t love creamy ice cream on sweltering summer days? Cocoa ice cream with raisins and rum is not only a delicious dessert but also a perfect way to cool off and enjoy special moments. This recipe combines the richness of cocoa with the sweetness of raisins and the distinct aroma of rum, offering a sophisticated and comforting flavor.

The story behind the recipe

Ice cream is a delicacy found in various forms and flavors around the world. Over time, it has evolved from a simple mixture of water and ice to the creamy and refined desserts we know today. This cocoa ice cream recipe is a modern reinterpretation of a classic dessert, bringing a touch of childhood nostalgia in every spoonful.

Necessary ingredients

- 500 ml liquid cream
- 5 tablespoons quality cocoa (ideally, pure cocoa)
- Raisins (as desired, but about 150 g is ideal)
- 1 cup (250 ml) milk
- 3 large eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon rum essence (or more, to taste)

Useful tips for ingredients

1. Quality cocoa: Choose a good quality cocoa to achieve an intense and pleasant flavor. Pure cocoa will provide a richer taste compared to sugar blends.

2. Raisins: If you want an even more intense flavor, soak the raisins in rum for at least an hour before adding them to the mixture. This trick will allow the raisins to absorb the rum flavor and become juicier.

3. Cream: Make sure the cream is very cold before whipping it to achieve an airy and creamy texture.

Step by step: Making cocoa ice cream

1. Preparing the cocoa cream: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously. This step is essential to avoid lumps.

2. Place in a double boiler: Transfer the mixture to a pot and place it over a double boiler (a larger pot with hot water). Stir constantly until the cream thickens (about 10-15 minutes). If you lack patience, you can cook it directly over low heat, stirring continuously.

3. Adding cocoa: Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and add the cocoa. Use a whisk to mix well, ensuring the cocoa is evenly incorporated and does not form lumps.

4. Cooling the mixture: Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature. This step is crucial because if you add the cream too early, it will melt.

5. Incorporating the cream: Once the mixture is cool, whip the cream until it becomes firm, then gently fold it into the cocoa cream using a spatula or a large spoon. Do this with slow movements to keep the air in the cream.

6. Adding raisins and rum: Add the raisins (if you soaked them in rum, drain them slightly) and the rum essence. Gently stir to distribute them evenly in the mixture.

7. Freezing the ice cream: Pour the mixture into an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Let the ice cream freeze for 4 hours or until firm.

Serving the ice cream

Cocoa ice cream with raisins and rum can be served plain to fully appreciate the intense flavors, but you can also add delicious toppings. Here are some suggestions:

- Chocolate topping: Melt dark or milk chocolate and pour it over the ice cream for a delicious contrast.
- Fresh fruits: Serve with slices of banana, strawberries, or raspberries for an extra touch of freshness.
- Crunchy nuts: Add crushed or roasted nuts for an interesting texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of alcohol instead of rum? Yes, you can experiment with brandy or whiskey, but make sure the flavor matches that of the cocoa.

2. How can I keep the ice cream longer? Ensure that the ice cream is well covered in the container to prevent ice crystals from forming.

3. Are eggs necessary? Eggs help create a creamy texture, but you can omit them and use a milk and cream base for the ice cream.

Nutritional benefits

This cocoa ice cream is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants from the cocoa. Raisins add fiber and vitamins, while the cream provides a source of calcium. Of course, it is a dessert, so enjoy it in moderation!

Possible variations

- Vegan ice cream: Replace the cream with a coconut alternative and use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Fruit ice cream: Experiment with other dried fruits instead of raisins, such as cranberries or dried apricots.

With this simple and quick recipe, you can bring a touch of joy to hot summer days. Don’t forget to share this delicacy with loved ones, turning every spoonful into an unforgettable memory!