Lavender Ice Cream

Lavender ice cream is a unique treat that combines rich creaminess with the delicate floral notes of lavender. This delightful dessert is perfect for summer events or as an elegant addition to your dessert table. With a balance of honey and monk fruit sweetener, this recipe allows you to enjoy a light yet indulgent experience, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The floral essence of lavender paired with creamy textures creates a refreshing dessert.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: Perfect for summer barbecues, dinner parties, or a cozy night in.
• Healthy Alternatives: Use natural sweeteners and dairy-free options to suit your dietary preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it in cones or bowls for a visually appealing treat that impresses guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create Lavender Ice Cream, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and helps achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Whisk
• Freezer-safe container (Ninja CREAMi™ Pint recommended)
• Ice cream maker (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Essential for heating the dairy base evenly without boiling it.
• Fine-mesh strainer: Helps remove lavender buds while keeping the infused flavor intact.
• Whisk: Useful for ensuring that sweeteners dissolve fully into the mixture.
• Freezer-safe container: Keeps your ice cream safe while it freezes, preventing freezer burn.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Lavender Ice Cream, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For a rich and smooth texture.
• 2 tablespoons dried lavender: Use culinary-grade lavender to avoid bitterness.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Enhances the floral flavor with natural sweetness.
• 6 tablespoons monk fruit sweetener: A low-calorie sugar alternative.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the flavors.
• Replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Swap monk fruit sweetener with granulated sugar or stevia if preferred.
• Use coconut milk and cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Lavender Ice Cream

Step 1: Heat the Base

In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until you see gentle wisps of steam; do not let it boil.

Step 2: Infuse Lavender

Add dried lavender to the warm mixture and stir gently. Let it steep off the heat for 20 minutes to allow the floral aroma to infuse into the base.

Step 3: Strain and Sweeten

Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a medium bowl to remove lavender buds. Whisk in honey, monk fruit sweetener, and salt until fully dissolved.

Step 4: Chill and Freeze

Transfer the mixture to an empty Ninja CREAMi™ Pint (or any freezer-safe container). Place it in an ice bath to cool completely. Cover with a lid and freeze for at least 24 hours.

Step 5: Churn into Ice Cream

Remove the frozen pint from the freezer. Process in your Ninja CREAMi™ using the “ICE CREAM” setting (or churn in your ice cream maker according to its instructions).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Scoop into bowls or cones and serve immediately for a creamy, aromatic dessert. Enjoy your homemade Lavender Ice Cream!

How to Serve Lavender Ice Cream

Lavender ice cream is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

In a Cone

• A classic choice, serve your lavender ice cream in a waffle cone for a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture.

With Fresh Berries

• Top your lavender ice cream with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

Drizzled with Honey

• Add a drizzle of honey over the ice cream for an extra touch of sweetness that complements the floral notes.

As a Sundae

• Create an elegant sundae by layering lavender ice cream with chocolate sauce and crushed nuts for added texture.

In a Milkshake

• Blend lavender ice cream with milk and some extra vanilla for a refreshing lavender milkshake that’s perfect for warm days.

How to Perfect Lavender Ice Cream

To achieve the best lavender ice cream, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure a creamy texture and vibrant flavor throughout your dessert.

• Use Culinary-Grade Lavender: Always choose culinary-grade lavender to avoid any bitter taste, ensuring a pleasant floral flavor.
• Steep Longer: For a more intense lavender flavor, steep the dried lavender longer than 20 minutes, but be careful not to let it become too strong.
• Cool Completely Before Freezing: Make sure your mixture cools completely before freezing; this helps prevent large ice crystals from forming.
• Churn Carefully: Follow the instructions of your ice cream maker closely for optimal churning time; this helps create that smooth consistency.
• Store Properly: Store your lavender ice cream in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.

Best Side Dishes for Lavender Ice Cream

Pairing side dishes with lavender ice cream can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Lemon Shortbread Cookies: These buttery cookies add a zesty complement to the floral notes of lavender.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies: The classic chocolate chip cookie pairs well, balancing sweetness with rich chocolate flavors.
3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the ice cream.
4. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and nutty, almond biscotti can be dipped into the ice cream for an enjoyable texture combination.
5. Pistachio Cake: This moist cake enhances the floral aspect while adding nuttiness that harmonizes beautifully with lavender.
6. Caramelized Peaches: Sweet peaches caramelized in butter create an exquisite topping that highlights both flavors when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lavender Ice Cream, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect creamy treat.

• Using Non-Culinary Lavender: Always choose culinary-grade lavender. Non-culinary lavender can taste bitter and unpleasant.
• Overheating the Base: Heat the milk and cream just until steaming; boiling can affect texture and flavor.
• Skipping the Straining Step: Strain the mixture carefully to remove lavender buds. Leaving them in can make the ice cream gritty.
• Not Allowing Enough Chill Time: Ensure that your mixture is fully chilled before freezing. This step is crucial for a smooth consistency.
• Ignoring Sweetener Adjustments: Taste your mixture before freezing. Adjust sweetness based on your personal preference or dietary needs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lavender Ice Cream in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between the ice cream and the lid to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Freezing Lavender Ice Cream

• For long-term storage, freeze Lavender Ice Cream for up to 2 weeks.
• Use a freezer-safe container with a tight seal to maintain freshness.

Reheating Lavender Ice Cream

• Oven: Preheat to low heat, around 200°F, then place the ice cream in an oven-safe dish for a few minutes until slightly softened.
• Microwave: Use short bursts of 10-15 seconds on low power, checking frequently to avoid melting completely.
• Stovetop: Place the ice cream in a bowl over simmering water, stirring gently until softened.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Lavender Ice Cream that may help you in your preparation.

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh lavender, but you’ll need more since it has a milder flavor compared to dried lavender.

How do I make Lavender Ice Cream dairy-free?

You can replace whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk and coconut cream for a delicious dairy-free option.

What if I don’t have monk fruit sweetener?

You can substitute monk fruit sweetener with granulated sugar or stevia according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take for Lavender Ice Cream to set?

Lavender Ice Cream typically takes at least 24 hours in the freezer to set properly before serving.

Can I add other flavors to my Lavender Ice Cream?

Absolutely! You can blend in fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added sweetness and color.

Final Thoughts

Lavender Ice Cream is a unique dessert that combines floral notes with creamy goodness. Its versatility allows for many customizations, from sweeteners to dairy alternatives. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it on a quiet evening, this delightful treat is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try different flavors or toppings for your own twist!