Vanilla Ice Cream with Cherries: A Step-by-Step Recipe for a Perfect Dessert

Vanilla Ice Cream with Cherries: A Step-by-Step Recipe for a Perfect Dessert

Introduction

Vanilla ice cream with cherries is a timeless dessert that combines the creamy richness of vanilla with the juicy sweetness of cherries. This versatile treat can be enjoyed on its own, as part of a sundae, or as a topping for cakes and pies. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply indulging in a moment of sweetness, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Ice Cream:

• 2 cups (500 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (250 ml) whole milk
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 5 large egg yolks

For the Cherry Topping:

• 2 cups (300 g) fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional, for sauce consistency)

Ingredient Breakdown and Benefits

1. Vanilla Extract: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor to the ice cream.
2. Fresh Cherries: Juicy and sweet, cherries provide a vibrant and refreshing contrast to the creamy ice cream.
3. Egg Yolks: Help achieve a rich, custard-like texture in the ice cream.
4. Cornstarch: Optional for creating a thicker cherry sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and half the sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and thick.
3. Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

2. Chill and Freeze the Ice Cream

1. Pour the custard into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Once chilled, churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.

3. Make the Cherry Topping

1. In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices and soften, about 5-7 minutes.
2. For a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the cherry mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before serving.

4. Assemble and Serve

1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into bowls or cones.
2. Spoon the cherry topping generously over the ice cream.
3. Garnish with a whole cherry or a sprig of mint for presentation.

Tips for Perfect Vanilla Ice Cream with Cherries

1. Use Fresh Vanilla Beans:

   • For a more intense vanilla flavor, scrape the seeds from a vanilla bean and steep them in the cream mixture.

2. Chill the Custard Thoroughly:

   • Ensure the custard is well-chilled before churning to achieve the smoothest texture.

3. Adjust the Sweetness:

   • Modify the sugar in the cherry topping based on the natural sweetness of the cherries.

4. Freeze the Bowl:

   • For the best results, freeze the ice cream maker bowl for at least 24 hours before churning.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream:

   • Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate into the ice cream during the last minutes of churning.

2. Cherry Swirl Ice Cream:

   • Fold the cherry sauce into the churned ice cream for a marbled effect.

3. Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream:

   • Substitute coconut milk for the cream and use cornstarch as a thickener instead of egg yolks.

4. Almond Vanilla Ice Cream:

   • Add a few drops of almond extract to the ice cream base for a nutty twist.

Serving Suggestions

1. In Sundae Form:

   • Top the ice cream with whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry for a classic sundae.

2. Paired with Cake:

   • Serve alongside a slice of chocolate or almond cake for a decadent dessert.

3. In an Ice Cream Sandwich:

   • Scoop the ice cream between two cookies and add a layer of cherry sauce for a handheld treat.

4. In a Milkshake:

   • Blend the ice cream with milk and cherry sauce for a refreshing milkshake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen cherries?

   • Yes, frozen cherries work well. Thaw them before cooking to reduce excess water.

2. How long does the ice cream last?

   • Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.

3. Do I need an ice cream maker?

   • No, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow dish, stirring every 30 minutes until frozen.

4. Can I use dairy-free alternatives?

   • Yes, substitute the cream and milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

5. How do I prevent the ice cream from becoming icy?

   • Ensure the custard is fully chilled before churning and avoid adding excess water to the cherry sauce.

Conclusion

Vanilla ice cream with cherries is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Its creamy texture and vibrant fruit topping make it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether served in a cone, bowl, or sundae, this dessert promises to delight your taste buds with its refreshing simplicity. Try this recipe today and savor the timeless combination of vanilla and cherries!