Cocoa ice cream with raisins

Cocoa Ice Cream with Raisins – A Refreshing Delight for Hot Days

On hot summer days, there’s nothing more enjoyable than a scoop of cold, creamy, and delicious ice cream. A simple and easy recipe is cocoa ice cream with raisins, which combines the intense flavor of cocoa with the sweetness of raisins. This recipe is not only a great way to cool down but also an opportunity to enjoy a dessert that can bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Let’s discover together the steps to create this delight!

Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooling Time: 4 hours (or more, depending on preferences)
- Total Time: approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes
- Number of Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients
- 4 fresh eggs (preferably from free-range hens)
- 9 tablespoons of granulated sugar (you can adjust the amount depending on how sweet you want the ice cream)
- 2 tablespoons of high-quality cocoa (choose unsweetened cocoa for a rich taste)
- 800 ml of liquid cream (make sure it has a fat content of at least 30% for a perfect texture)
- 3-4 tablespoons of raisins (you can use golden or black raisins, depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons of cognac (or you can also try rum for a different flavor)

Nutritional Benefits
This cocoa ice cream is not only a delicious dessert but also a source of nutrients. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants and can help improve mood. Eggs provide quality protein, while cream adds calcium. Raisins, on the other hand, are a natural source of sugars and fiber.

Preparation Technique
1. Preparing the Cocoa Cream
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the eggs, sugar, and cocoa. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly to avoid sticking to the bottom. It’s important not to leave the mixture unattended, as it can easily burn.
Continue stirring until the cream begins to thicken (when you run a spoon through it, it should leave a clear line). Once you achieve the desired consistency, remove from heat and let the cream cool completely.

2. Preparing the Raisins
While the cream cools, place the raisins in a small bowl and pour the cognac over them. Let them soak for about 30 minutes, allowing them to absorb the alcohol flavor and become juicier.

3. Whipping the Cream
Use a mixer to whip the liquid cream. Make sure it is well whipped but not to the point of turning into butter. Well-whipped cream is essential for achieving a creamy ice cream without ice crystals.

4. Combining the Ingredients
Once the cocoa cream has completely cooled, gradually add it to the whipped cream, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Also, add the soaked raisins and mix gently to avoid losing the air in the cream.

5. Freezing the Mixture
Pour the resulting mixture into a mold or bowl suitable for freezing. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the freezer.

6. Mixing the Ice Cream
Every hour, take the mold out of the freezer and mix the mixture well with a fork or hand mixer to prevent ice crystals from forming. Repeat this process for 4 hours or until the ice cream reaches the desired consistency.

7. Serving
Once the ice cream is ready, serve it in a bowl or on a cone. You can garnish it with grated chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra touch of flavor.

Variations and Suggestions
- Fruit Variation: Instead of raisins, you can use pieces of banana or strawberries for a fresher option.
- Cocoa Ice Cream with Nuts: Add chopped nuts or roasted hazelnuts for a delicious crunch.
- Additional Flavorings: You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the cocoa cream to enhance the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it important to whip the cream well?
Well-whipped cream helps achieve a creamy and airy ice cream, preventing ice crystal formation.

2. Can I use an alternative to cognac?
Yes, you can use orange juice or water for a non-alcoholic option.

3. How can I keep the ice cream longer?
Make sure the ice cream is well covered and stored in the freezer to avoid absorbing odors from other foods.

Conclusion
This cocoa ice cream with raisins recipe is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile. Whether you enjoy it alone or serve it at a party, it is sure to bring joy and refreshment on hot days. Experiment with various flavors and ingredients to create your favorite version. Enjoy!