Lemon Basil Ice Cream

Short Description

Lemon Basil Ice Cream is a sophisticated and refreshing dessert that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the aromatic sweetness of fresh basil. This unique flavor pairing creates a creamy treat that is both invigorating and indulgent, perfect for warm weather or as a palate-cleansing finale to a meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of citrusy lemon and herbal basil offers a delightful twist on traditional ice cream flavors.
Creamy Texture: Utilizing a custard base ensures a rich and smooth consistency.
Seasonal Ingredients: Makes excellent use of fresh basil, especially abundant during summer months.
Versatile Dessert: Ideal for serving alone or alongside fruit-based desserts for added complexity.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Whole milk
Heavy cream
Fresh basil leaves
Fresh lemon zest
Salt
Egg yolks
Sugar

Directions

Prepare the Ice Cream Base: In a saucepan, combine the milk, cream, lemon zest, and basil leaves. Heat the mixture until it begins to boil gently, then remove from heat and let it infuse until warm.
Blend the Mixture: Transfer the infused mixture to a blender and puree until the basil is finely blended.
Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is pale yellow.
Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour a portion of the warm basil mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
Cook the Custard: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Chill the Base: Allow the custard to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to ensure it’s thoroughly chilled.
Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Freeze Until Firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for several hours until firm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 6 servings
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Additional Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Lemon Basil Cookie Crunch Ice Cream: Incorporate chunks of lemon sandwich cookies during the final minutes of churning for added texture and flavor.
Lemon Basil Sorbet: For a dairy-free alternative, create a sorbet by combining lemon juice, basil-infused simple syrup, and water, then freeze until set.
Herb Substitutions: Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or thyme to create different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To prevent ice crystals, place a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper directly on the surface before sealing.
Serving: For best texture, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

FAQs

What type of basil is best for this recipe?

Sweet basil is commonly used due to its mild and aromatic flavor, which complements the lemon without overpowering it.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor and aroma. Dried basil may not provide the same intensity and can alter the texture.

Is it necessary to use an ice cream maker?

While an ice cream maker yields the best texture, you can make this recipe without one by freezing the mixture and stirring it every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute the milk and cream with full-fat coconut milk to create a dairy-free version with a slight coconut undertone.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Yes, you can modify the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences. Keep in mind that sugar also affects the texture and freezing point of the ice cream.

What can I serve with lemon basil ice cream?

This ice cream pairs well with fresh berries, shortbread cookies, or as a complement to fruit tarts.

How long should I infuse the basil in the cream?

Infusing the basil for about 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to meld without becoming overpowering.

Can I add lemon juice to enhance the flavor?

Adding a small amount of lemon juice can intensify the citrus flavor, but be cautious as too much acid can affect the creaminess of the ice cream.

Is it possible to make this ice cream ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ice cream base a day in advance and churn it when ready. The finished ice cream can also be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent ice crystals from forming?

Ensure the ice cream base is thoroughly chilled before churning, and store the finished ice cream in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap or parchment paper on the surface.

Conclusion

Lemon Basil Ice Cream offers a delightful fusion of citrus and herbal notes, resulting in a refreshing and sophisticated dessert. Its creamy texture and unique flavor profile make it a standout choice for summer gatherings or as an elegant finish to any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with complementary desserts, this ice cream is sure to impress and satisfy.