Raspberry ice cream

Raspberry Ice Cream: A Fruity and Healthy Indulgence

Who doesn’t love a refreshing ice cream, especially on a hot summer day? The comfort and sweetness of raspberry ice cream will not only delight your taste buds, but it is also a healthy option, perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious dessert without compromising their diet. This raspberry ice cream recipe is simple, quick, and can be customized according to everyone’s preferences.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 4 hours
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients you need:
- 300 g fresh or frozen raspberries
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 100 g fructose (or powdered sugar for the classic version)
- 200 ml liquid heavy cream (preferably 15% fat)

A little story about raspberries:
Raspberries are more than just a delicious fruit; they are a symbol of summer and joy. This little red gem is rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fiber, making it an ideal ingredient for healthy desserts. Raspberries have been used for centuries in various dishes, and today we continue this tradition with a simple ice cream recipe that combines the sweet-tart flavor of raspberries with the creaminess of heavy cream.

Step by Step for Perfect Ice Cream:

1. Preparing the raspberries: If using fresh raspberries, wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities. If you have frozen raspberries, let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature.

2. Crushing the raspberries: Place the raspberries in a bowl and use a masher to crush them until you get a smooth puree. If you prefer a finer texture, you can use a blender to puree the raspberries.

3. Straining the puree: It is important to strain the raspberry puree through a fine sieve to remove the seeds, resulting in a velvety consistency. This step may seem optional, but it will make a difference in the final texture of the ice cream.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the raspberry puree with the orange juice and fructose. The orange juice will add a note of acidity and enhance the raspberry flavor. Mix well until the fructose is completely dissolved.

5. Whipping the cream: In another bowl, whip the liquid heavy cream with a whisk or mixer, being careful not to turn it into whipped cream. The goal is to achieve a fluffy texture that will give the ice cream wonderful creaminess.

6. Combining: Add the raspberry puree mixture to the whipped cream and gently fold with a spatula, using circular motions from top to bottom. This will help maintain the air in the mixture, making the ice cream fluffy.

7. Storing: Transfer the mixture to a plastic container, cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer.

8. Mixing during freezing: After about an hour, take the ice cream out of the freezer and mix well with a fork or spatula. This step is essential to prevent ice crystals from forming. Repeat this process 4-5 times at hourly intervals until the ice cream is firm and well homogenized.

9. Serving: After the ice cream has been in the freezer for at least 4 hours, it is ready to serve. Use an ice cream scoop to portion it out and serve it in a bowl or a cone. You can add fresh raspberries or grated chocolate as a topping for an extra touch of elegance.

Serving Suggestions:
Raspberry ice cream pairs wonderfully with chocolate sauce or a slice of vanilla cake. You can also serve it alongside a glass of fresh lemonade or a fruit cocktail for a perfect culinary experience.

Variations and Helpful Tips:
- If you want to try a more exotic version, add a few fresh mint leaves to the raspberry puree for a refreshing taste.
- You can replace the cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier version, but the final texture will be different.
- If you don't have fructose, powdered sugar is an excellent alternative, although fructose has a lower glycemic index and is more suitable for those following a Montignac diet.

Nutritional Benefits:
Raspberry ice cream is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Raspberries are rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body, and contain fiber, important for healthy digestion. The cream adds a source of calcium and fat-soluble vitamins, providing a balanced dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can raspberry ice cream be stored for more than a few days?
Yes, if stored in a well-sealed container, it can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer.

- Can I use other fruits to make ice cream?
Absolutely! You can replace raspberries with strawberries, blueberries, or mango, adapting the recipe to your preferences.

- What other types of ice cream can I try?
Explore recipes for banana ice cream, vanilla ice cream, or chocolate ice cream, each having its own charm.

The raspberry ice cream you just made is not just a simple delicacy but a symbol of summer and the joy of cooking. So, enjoy every spoonful and let yourself be carried away by fruity flavors!