Plum ice cream

Plum Ice Cream – a sweet and refined delicacy

Total Time: 4 hours (including cooling and freezing time)
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 0 minutes
Number of Servings: 6

Who would have thought that a simple plum could transform an ordinary day into an unforgettable experience? Plum ice cream is a recipe that combines the natural sweetness of these fruits with a creamy and velvety texture, perfect for warm days or as an elegant dessert after a special dinner. Most of us associate ice cream with summer days, but this recipe brings a touch of autumn in every spoonful, evoking the flavors and colors of these wonderful fruits.

The ingredients needed to prepare this delicious ice cream are simple yet fresh. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the perfect taste and texture:

- 450 g ripe plums (pitted and quartered)
- 125 g granulated sugar (to enhance the natural sweetness of the plums)
- 4 egg yolks (for a creamy base)
- 125 g powdered sugar (to sweeten the mixture and provide a fine texture)
- 280 ml heavy cream (for a light consistency)

The steps to achieve perfect plum ice cream are simple but require a bit of patience and attention to detail. Here’s how to proceed:

Step 1: Prepare the plum puree
In a saucepan, add the quartered plums and granulated sugar, along with 300 ml of water. Allow the mixture to reach the boiling point, covering the saucepan to retain steam. Once the plums start to boil, reduce the heat and let them simmer gently for 10 minutes. The goal is for the fruit to become soft and juicy. When ready, remove from heat and blend into a smooth puree using a blender or whisk. Let the puree cool for 20 minutes before combining it with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the egg yolk cream
In a heatproof bowl, add the egg yolks and powdered sugar. Place the bowl over a double boiler, ensuring that the bottom does not touch the water. Use a whisk to beat the mixture constantly until it becomes warm. Then, remove the bowl from heat and use a mixer to beat the mixture until it triples in volume. This process will add air and make the cream fluffier. Allow the mixture to cool.

Step 3: Combine the ingredients
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it becomes firm, adding the remaining powdered sugar. It is important not to overbeat it to avoid turning it into butter. Add the plum puree and egg yolk cream to the whipped cream and gently fold together with a spatula until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Freeze
Pour the mixture into a plastic container, ensuring it is well covered. Here comes an important technique: to achieve creamy ice cream, stir the mixture every 2 hours during the first 6 hours of freezing. This will prevent ice crystals from forming and ensure a smooth texture. After about 4-6 hours, the ice cream should be firm and ready to serve.

Serving and Variations
Plum ice cream is best served in bowls, sprinkled with toasted nuts or drizzled with chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast. You can also add a few fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch.

Another idea is to pair this ice cream with a glass of sweet wine or a fruit cocktail for a perfect evening. Additionally, plum ice cream can be used as a filling for pancakes or as a topping for cakes.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen plums?
Yes, frozen plums can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before turning them into puree.

2. How can I make the ice cream less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of granulated sugar or opt for a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup.

3. Can I replace the egg yolks?
For a vegan option, you can use a plant-based egg substitute, but the textures will vary.

Nutritional Benefits
Plums are extremely beneficial for health, being rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. This plum ice cream not only offers a wonderful taste but also contributes to a balanced diet.

The final puzzle of the plum ice cream recipe will turn your warm days into a sweet and refreshing experience. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy every spoonful! Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to unleash your creativity and enjoy this delicacy. Enjoy!