Strawberry and vanilla ice cream

Strawberry and Vanilla Ice Cream - The Perfect Indulgence for Warm Days

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Number of servings: 6-8

A brief introduction to the world of ice cream

Ice cream is a beloved dessert throughout time, bringing a dose of indulgence and joy to any warm day. Its origins are lost in the mists of time when people began freezing natural juices and milk mixtures with ice. Today, ice cream has evolved in countless ways, but nothing compares to a simple and delicious combination of fresh strawberries and creamy vanilla. This strawberry and vanilla ice cream recipe is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will delight your senses.

Necessary ingredients

To make delicious ice cream, you will need the following ingredients:

*Strawberry Ice Cream:*
- 350 g strawberries, cleaned and cut into 3-4 pieces
- 85 g sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 280 ml heavy cream
- Lemon juice, to taste

*Vanilla Ice Cream:*
- 250 ml milk
- 250 g heavy cream
- Vanilla extract (preferably natural)
- 5 egg yolks
- 125 g sugar

Step by Step - Your Guide to Making Ice Cream

1. Preparing the strawberry puree
Start by placing the strawberries in a blender. Add 30 g of sugar (reserving the rest for the cream mixture) and blend until you achieve a smooth puree. You can add a little lemon juice for a pleasant contrast of flavors. Set aside.

2. Strawberry base
In a bowl, beat the two egg yolks with the remaining sugar (55 g) until they become a light and fluffy cream. In a saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a boil. When it starts boiling, remove it from the heat and gradually add the yolk mixture, stirring continuously to avoid cooking the eggs. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook on low heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon). Do not let it boil!

3. Straining and cooling
Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, add the strawberry puree and mix well.

4. Preparing the vanilla ice cream
In a saucepan, bring the milk and heavy cream to a boil. Once they start boiling, add the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until they become a cream. Gradually pour the hot milk over the yolk mixture, stirring continuously to avoid cooking the eggs. Then, pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook on low heat for 4-5 minutes, just like the strawberry ice cream.

5. Straining and cooling
Strain the vanilla mixture through a fine sieve and let it cool to room temperature.

6. Freezing
Pour both mixtures into separate containers and place them in the freezer for about 4 hours. I advise you to stir each mixture every hour to prevent ice crystals from forming, ensuring that the ice cream remains smooth and creamy.

7. Serving
Take a larger plastic container and alternately add a spoonful of each type of ice cream. Use a knife to gently swirl them together, but don’t overdo it; you want to keep those wonderful layers of color! Cover the container and leave it in the freezer until the ice cream is completely solid, about 2 hours.

Serving suggestions

Strawberry and vanilla ice cream can be served plain or with delicious toppings such as chocolate sauce, toasted nuts, or fresh fruit. Give it a festive touch with a few fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s the perfect dessert for warm summer days or for parties with friends.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before turning them into puree.

- How can I improve the texture of the ice cream?
Stirring the ice cream every hour during freezing will help prevent ice crystals, resulting in a smoother texture.

- Is it possible to use plant-based milk for the vanilla ice cream?
Yes, you can use almond or coconut milk, but it will slightly change the taste and consistency.

- How many calories are in a serving of strawberry and vanilla ice cream?
A serving contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the exact amounts of sugar and cream used.

Nutritional benefits

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to skin health and a strong immune system. Additionally, vanilla ice cream contains essential calcium, important for bone health.

Possible variations

- Mixed fruit ice cream: Replace strawberries with a mix of berries or bananas.
- Caramel-flavored ice cream: Add a few tablespoons of caramel sauce to the vanilla mixture for a decadent taste.
- Vegan ice cream: Replace the egg yolks with a mixture of banana and coconut milk for a vegan and healthy option.

Strawberry and vanilla ice cream is a dessert that will make you feel like a true culinary master. Whether you enjoy it alone or with loved ones, every spoonful will bring a smile to your face. So, put on your apron and let’s bring this delicious recipe to life!