Making homemade ice cream is one of my favorite summer activities, especially when I can create unique flavors like coffee ice cream. There’s just something so satisfying about the creamy texture and rich taste of coffee mixed with a sweet and cool ice cream base. If you have an ice cream maker, you’re in luck because I’m going to share a simple and delicious recipe for making coffee ice cream in this article.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to make coffee ice cream. These are readily available in most grocery stores, and you may even have them in your pantry already:
1. Whole Milk (1 cup)
Using whole milk will make your ice cream creamier and richer in flavor. It’s an essential ingredient in any homemade ice cream recipe.
2. Heavy Cream (2 cups)
Heavy cream adds extra creaminess and richness to the ice cream. Look for a high-fat content cream to get the best results.
3. Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup)
Sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps to prevent ice crystals from forming, resulting in a smoother texture.
4. Instant Coffee Powder (2 tablespoons)
The star ingredient of this recipe! Instant coffee powder gives your ice cream that intense coffee flavor. You can adjust the amount depending on how strong you want your coffee ice cream to be.
5. Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
Salt enhances the flavors, and in this case, it helps to bring out the coffee flavor even more.
6. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
Adding a small amount of vanilla extract enhances the overall taste of the ice cream and complements the coffee flavor.
The Ice Cream Maker Process
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the process of making coffee ice cream with your ice cream maker.
Step 1: Preparation
Place the mixing bowl of your ice cream maker in the freezer at least 24 hours before you plan on making the ice cream. This ensures that the bowl is chilled enough to properly freeze the mixture.
Step 2: Make the Coffee Base
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, instant coffee powder, salt, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the sugar and coffee are completely dissolved.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until the mixture is completely chilled. Chilling the mixture beforehand helps it freeze faster and results in a smoother ice cream texture.
Step 4: Pour the Mixture into the Ice Cream Maker
Once the mixture is properly chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and give it a quick stir to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. Then, pour the mixture into the frozen mixing bowl of your ice cream maker.
Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream
Attach the mixing paddle and lid to your ice cream maker, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Turn the machine on and let it churn for about 20-25 minutes, or until the ice cream reaches a soft, creamy consistency.
Step 6: Freezing the Ice Cream
Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and place it in the freezer for an additional 3-4 hours, or until it hardens to the desired consistency. This step allows the ice cream to firm up and develop its full flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your homemade coffee ice cream is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! Here are a few serving suggestions to take your dessert to the next level:
1. Waffle Cones or Bowls
Serve your coffee ice cream in crispy waffle cones or bowls for a classic and convenient way to enjoy this treat. You can find pre-made cones at the grocery store or even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
2. Toppings Galore
Get creative with your toppings! Sprinkle some crushed chocolate-covered coffee beans, drizzle caramel sauce, or add a dollop of whipped cream on top of your coffee ice cream for some extra indulgence.
3. Affogato
For a more sophisticated dessert, try an affogato. Simply pour a shot of hot espresso over a scoop of coffee ice cream, and you’ll have a delightful combination of warm and cold, bitter and sweet flavors.
4. Coffee Float
Take your coffee ice cream to a whole new level by turning it into a coffee float. Add a generous scoop of ice cream to a glass, and pour some chilled coffee or even a coffee-based soda over it. The result is a refreshing and caffeinated beverage.
With this simple and delicious coffee ice cream recipe, you can now create a delightful frozen treat in the comfort of your own home. So grab your ice cream maker, gather the ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of homemade coffee ice cream. Discover the joy of making your own frozen creations and let your imagination run wild with different flavors and mix-ins. Happy ice cream making!