Raspberry Ice Cream Recipe

Raspberry Ice Cream Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Raspberry Ice Cream

This homemade raspberry ice cream is a perfect balance of creamy texture and fruity flavor. Easy to prepare and an absolute treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 cups raspberries
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (for raspberries)
  • 2 drops vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Directions

Step 1: Whisk the egg yolks briefly in a small bowl until they are well blended.

Step 2: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 3/4 cup of the cream and 1/2 cup sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the cream becomes hot.

Step 3: Gradually whisk a little of the hot cream into the egg yolks to temper them. This helps prevent the eggs from curdling.

Step 4: Slowly whisk the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the hot cream, and cook while stirring constantly. Continue until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, but do not allow it to boil.

Step 5: Remove the pot from heat and quickly strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl to remove any bits of cooked egg. Let it cool slightly.

Step 6: Whisk in the remaining 3/4 cup of cream. Cover the mixture and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 7: Meanwhile, puree the raspberries in a food processor. Pass the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds.

Step 8: Stir 2 tablespoons of sugar into the raspberry puree until it dissolves completely.

Step 9: Add the raspberry puree to the chilled cream mixture, then stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly.

Step 10: Chill the combined mixture in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes or until fully cooled.

Step 11: Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about 20 minutes.

Step 12: Transfer the ice cream to an airtight and freeze until firm, which typically takes around 4 hours.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 149
  • Total Fat: 8g (11% Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 5g (24% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 94mg (31% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 41mg (2% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 16g (6% Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% Daily Value)
  • Total Sugars: 14g
  • Protein: 3g (6% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin C: 7mg (7% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 29mg (2% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 1mg (3% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 78mg (2% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Raspberry ice cream is a beloved dessert that combines the tartness of fresh raspberries with the smooth richness of cream. This frozen treat offers a refreshing alternative to traditional flavors like vanilla or chocolate. Making raspberry ice cream at home is not only a fun and easy process, but it also allows you to use high-quality, fresh ingredients for a more authentic taste. Below, we will explore the history, regional characteristics, and some interesting facts about this delightful dessert.

History of Raspberry Ice Cream

The origins of ice cream date back to ancient China, where a mixture of ice and milk was combined to create an early form of frozen dessert. However, modern ice cream as we know it began to take shape in Europe during the 17th century, particularly in Italy and France. It wasn't until the 18th century that ice cream became more widely popular in the United States, and various flavors, including fruit-based ones like raspberry, began to emerge.

Raspberry, with its bright color and tart taste, quickly became a favored flavor in Europe and the Americas. The use of fresh fruit in ice cream was seen as a way to highlight the natural sweetness of the fruit while balancing the creamy base. Today, raspberry ice cream is often enjoyed as a summer treat, though it remains a year-round favorite.

Regional Characteristics of Raspberry Ice Cream

Raspberry ice cream is particularly popular in Europe and North America, where the raspberry fruit is widely cultivated. In countries like France, Italy, and the United Kingdom, raspberries are used in many traditional desserts, including ice creams and sorbets. The key to making the best raspberry ice cream is using fresh, ripe raspberries, which lend a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dessert.

In the United States, raspberry ice cream is a staple of many summer celebrations, including barbecues and picnics. It is often served alongside other berry-based desserts, such as strawberry shortcakes and blueberry pies, and is a perfect companion to a hot day.

How Raspberry Ice Cream Differs from Similar Desserts

Raspberry ice cream stands out from other fruit-flavored ice creams, such as strawberry or blueberry, due to its unique tartness and the intensity of its flavor. While strawberry ice cream tends to have a sweeter profile, raspberry ice cream offers a more balanced taste, with a hint of sharpness that pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of the base.

Additionally, raspberry ice cream is often made with the actual fruit pure, which provides a more authentic and vibrant flavor compared to some other fruit-flavored ice creams that may use artificial flavorings. The smoothness of the ice cream is enhanced by straining out the seeds, which allows for a velvety texture without any unpleasant grittiness.

Where is Raspberry Ice Cream Typically Served?

Raspberry ice cream is commonly served as a standalone dessert, often garnished with fresh berries or a sprig of mint. It can also be paired with other desserts, such as fruit tarts, chocolate cakes, or waffles. In many restaurants, especially those that specialize in homemade or artisanal ice creams, raspberry ice cream is offered as a refreshing option in their dessert menus.

Raspberry ice cream is a popular treat in countries with a strong tradition of berry cultivation, such as the United States, Canada, and much of Europe. It is frequently enjoyed during warm months, making it a popular choice at outdoor events like barbecues, picnics, and parties. In fact, it's one of the top choices for ice cream trucks in the summer season.

Interesting Facts about Raspberry Ice Cream

  • Raspberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making raspberry ice cream not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
  • Raspberry ice cream has a naturally vibrant pink color, which makes it a visually appealing choice for dessert tables and buffets.
  • In the 19th century, the process of making ice cream was an expensive and labor-intensive task, but with the advent of refrigeration and ice cream machines in the 20th century, it became more accessible to the general public.
  • Raspberry ice cream is often used as a base for creating frozen desserts like parfaits or ice cream cakes, where its tangy flavor complements rich fillings and toppings.
  • Some versions of raspberry ice cream include a swirl of raspberry sauce or a mix of chunks of fresh fruit for added texture and flavor.
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FAQ about Raspberry Ice Cream Recipe

Raspberry ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. For the best texture and flavor, it is recommended to consume it within this time frame.

Yes, you can make this ice cream without an ice cream maker. After chilling the mixture, pour it into a shallow dish and freeze. Stir every 30 minutes for the first 3-4 hours to break up any ice crystals and achieve a creamy texture.

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Just thaw them before pureeing to ensure the texture is smooth and consistent. Keep in mind that fresh raspberries will give a slightly brighter flavor.

If you're looking for a substitute for egg yolks, you can try using cornstarch or a non-dairy thickening agent like agar-agar or arrowroot. However, this will slightly alter the texture of the ice cream.

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet ice cream, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream mixture or the raspberry puree. Keep in mind that the sweetness of raspberries can vary depending on their ripeness.

To make this raspberry ice cream dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk and use a plant-based sweetener if desired. You can also substitute the egg yolks with a vegan egg replacer.

Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Simply puree the fruit and strain it as you would the raspberries to remove seeds and ensure smooth texture.

To prevent the ice cream from becoming too hard, ensure it is stored in an airtight container and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping. Additionally, adding a bit of alcohol (like vodka) can help reduce ice crystals and make the texture smoother.