Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Ice Cream Recipe
You’ll love this Salted Caramel Ice Cream recipe for its perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
When I first tried it, the creamy texture paired with that rich caramel blew me away. Each bite offers a delightful mix of indulgence and sophistication.
It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the aroma of caramel bubbling on the stove is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser at gatherings; everyone asks for seconds!
I can’t help but smile when I see friends savoring it. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
You won’t regret it!
Ingredients of Salted Caramel Ice Cream
Making your own Salted Caramel Ice Cream isn’t just a cooking project; it’s an adventure in flavor that can brighten up any day. The combination of sweet caramel and a hint of salt creates a taste sensation that can make you weak in the knees.
And guess what? It’s surprisingly simple to whip up at home. You’ll be amazed at how a few staple ingredients can come together to create something that feels oh-so-fancy. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready for some fun in the kitchen!
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Ice Cream:
- 1 cup sugar (for the caramel)
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream (for the caramel)
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for the caramel)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the caramel)
- 1 1/2 cups whipping cream (for the ice cream base)
- 1 1/2 cups milk (for the ice cream base)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for the ice cream base)
- 2/3 cup sugar (for the ice cream base)
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a second. First off, using high-quality heavy cream can make a big difference in the creaminess of your ice cream. You want that rich, velvety texture that practically melts in your mouth.
And when it comes to vanilla extract, splurging on pure vanilla rather than imitation can elevate the flavor profile in a way that’s hard to describe.
Oh, and the flaky sea salt? It’s not just for show; it adds that perfect finishing touch that balances the sweetness. Don’t be shy with it. Trust me, a little extra sprinkle never hurt anyone.
How to Make Salted Caramel Ice Cream
Let’s explore the delightful world of homemade Salted Caramel Ice Cream. If you’ve ever thought about making ice cream from scratch, you’ll be surprised at how simple it can actually be, especially with this recipe.
First up, we’re going to create that luscious caramel sauce that will make your taste buds sing. So grab 1 cup of sugar and heat it in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. You’ll want to stir it gently to help it melt evenly.
Now, here’s where it gets a bit suspenseful—watch as the sugar transforms into a dark amber color. Don’t walk away; this is a vital moment in your caramel journey. Once it reaches that perfect shade, carefully add 1 1/4 cups of heavy cream (and yes, it will splatter, so step back a little). Stir until all the caramel dissolves, then add in 1/2 teaspoon of flaky sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Set that beautiful caramel aside to cool to room temperature—you’ll want it to be perfectly blended into the ice cream later.
Now that we’ve our caramel, let’s whip up the ice cream base. In a blender or food processor, combine 1 1/2 cups whipping cream, 1 1/2 cups milk, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and 2/3 cup of sugar. Blend it all together until the sugar dissolves, and don’t be alarmed if it looks like a milkshake; that’s exactly what we’re going for here.
Once it’s all mixed, keep it cold until you’re ready to pour it into your ice cream maker. Now for the fun part—combine the cooled caramel with your ice cream mix. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and follow its instructions.
If you’re using a Cuisinart ICE-50BC like I do, set it for about 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s creamy and soft, though I often put it in the freezer for a few hours for that perfect scoopable texture.
And there you have it—your very own homemade Salted Caramel Ice Cream. Just try not to eat it all in one sitting (no promises).
Salted Caramel Ice Cream Substitutions & Variations
With a few simple substitutions, you can easily customize your Salted Caramel Ice Cream to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk. For a richer flavor, swap in brown sugar for white sugar.
If you’re dairy-free, use coconut cream and a dairy-free caramel sauce. You can also experiment with flavors by adding espresso powder or crushed cookies.
Want a nutty twist? Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts. The possibilities are endless—get creative and make it your own!
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Ice Cream
What enhances the delightful experience of enjoying Salted Caramel Ice Cream? Pairing it with warm desserts is a game changer.
I love serving it atop a slice of freshly baked apple pie or alongside a fudgy brownie. The contrast of temperatures and flavors is simply divine.
Drizzling extra caramel sauce, or even chocolate sauce, elevates the indulgence. For a lighter option, fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas can add a revitalizing touch.
And don’t forget a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top; it really brings out the caramel’s richness.
Trust me, these pairings make every scoop unforgettable!
Additional Tips & Notes
While making salted caramel ice cream can be a delightful adventure, a few additional tips can enhance your experience.
First, use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent burning the sugar. When adding cream to the caramel, do it slowly to avoid splattering.
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar in your ice cream base. If you want a firmer texture, freeze the ice cream for several hours after churning.
Finally, don’t skip the flaky sea salt; it’s essential for balancing the sweetness.
Enjoy experimenting with mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for added fun!