Imagine a dessert that captures the essence of a sun-drenched Italian garden in every single bite - a creamy, refreshing ice cream that dances between tangy and herbal, surprising your taste buds with an unexpected flavor symphony. This Homemade Lemon Basil Ice Cream isn't just a dessert; it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary sensory experience that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean coastline.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar completely dissolves and mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and add fresh lemon zest. Let the mixture steep for 15 minutes to infuse the lemon flavor, allowing the zest to release its essential oils.
- Finely chop fresh basil leaves and add them to the cream mixture. Allow the basil to steep for an additional 10 minutes, releasing its aromatic oils.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, removing the lemon zest and basil leaves. Press gently to extract maximum flavor.
- Whisk in fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, creating a smooth and fragrant base.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill completely and enhance flavor development.
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, typically 20-25 minutes until soft-serve consistency is achieved.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent ice crystals.
- Freeze for 4-6 hours until firm. Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon zest if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips
- Use the freshest ingredients possible - farm-fresh basil and organic lemons will dramatically elevate your ice cream's flavor profile.
- When steeping lemon zest and basil, be patient and gentle. Lower heat helps extract maximum flavor without bitterness.
- Ensure your mixture is completely chilled before churning to achieve the smoothest, creamiest texture.
- For an extra luxurious touch, use a high-quality vanilla extract or even scrape a vanilla bean.
- If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe by using the "no-churn" method of freezing and stirring every hour to break up ice crystals.
- For a more intense basil flavor, briefly blanch the basil leaves before adding them to the cream mixture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 120mg
