Strawberry yogurt ice cream

Strawberry Yogurt Ice Cream – A Delicious Treat for Hot Days

If you're looking for a simple and delicious way to indulge on hot summer days, this strawberry yogurt ice cream recipe is definitely the answer. Combining the natural sweetness of strawberries with the creaminess of yogurt and whipped cream, this dessert is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutritional benefits. Plus, it can be customized with your favorite fruits, making it a versatile choice that caters to everyone's tastes.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients needed:

- 250 g fresh strawberries (or any other preferred fruit)
- 3-6 tablespoons of sugar (depending on how sweet the strawberries are)
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 400 g full-fat yogurt (choose a natural yogurt without additives)
- 150 ml liquid cream (for a fluffy texture)

A bit of history:

Ice cream has a fascinating history, having been consumed in various forms over the centuries. From simple mixtures of ice and fruit to today's creamy delights, the dessert has continuously evolved, becoming an essential part of summer for many. This strawberry yogurt ice cream recipe pays homage to simplicity and freshness, making it ideal for enjoying under the sun.

Step by step – The perfect guide for strawberry ice cream:

1. Preparing the strawberries: Start by washing the strawberries well under cold running water. Then, remove the stems. These fruits will become the delicious base of the ice cream.

2. Making the syrup: Place the cleaned strawberries in a saucepan and add sugar over them. Let them sit for 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their natural juice, forming a delicious syrup.

3. Boiling: Place the saucepan over medium heat and let the mixture come to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, remove from heat and let it cool completely.

4. Mixing the ingredients: Once the strawberry syrup has cooled, add the yogurt and lemon juice to the saucepan. Mix well until the mixture becomes smooth. The lemon juice will add a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.

5. Preparing the whipped cream: In a separate bowl, whip the liquid cream until soft peaks form. This will add an airy texture to the ice cream.

6. Combining: Add the whipped cream to the yogurt and strawberry mixture, gently folding with a spatula until well incorporated. Don’t forget to keep some whole strawberry pieces for a rustic look and to feel their texture in the ice cream.

7. Freezing: Pour the mixture into an airtight container and place it in the freezer. It’s important to stir the ice cream every hour for 4 hours to avoid ice crystals forming and to achieve a smooth texture.

8. Serving: Once the ice cream is well frozen, take it out of the freezer. Let it soften a bit at room temperature for easy serving. Use beautiful cups or bowls and, if desired, add a few fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch.

Serving suggestions: This strawberry yogurt ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm chocolate sauce or a few crunchy cookies on the side. You can also combine it with a glass of fresh lemonade or iced tea for a perfect summer experience.

Possible variations: Feel free to experiment! You can replace strawberries with other fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches. You can also add a bit of vanilla or almond extract for an extra flavor boost. If you want a healthier option, use natural sweeteners instead of sugar or Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost.

Nutritional information: This ice cream is an excellent choice for those who want to cool off without compromising on health. Yogurt brings digestive benefits, while strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Each serving has approximately 180 calories, but this may vary depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen fruits? Yes, frozen fruits are an excellent choice, but make sure to let them thaw a bit before using them.

2. How can I avoid ice crystals? Regularly stirring the mixture during freezing is key to achieving a creamy texture.

3. What can I do with leftover ice cream? Leftover ice cream can be used in smoothies or as a filling for cakes.

Now that you know how to make this delicious strawberry yogurt ice cream, all that's left is to gather your friends and family and enjoy refreshing summer days! Enjoy!