Are you ready to experience a dessert that's not just an ice cream, but a magical fusion of sweet, spicy, and creamy sensations? This Date Ginger Vanilla Ice Cream is about to revolutionize your dessert game, combining the rich sweetness of dates, the warm kick of ginger, and the classic comfort of vanilla in one incredible frozen treat. Perfect for those who crave something beyond ordinary, this recipe promises to transport your palate to a world of unexpected and luxurious flavors that will leave you craving more with every single spoonful!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Dessert
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine chopped dates, whole milk, sugar, ground ginger, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves and dates soften, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat and use an immersion blender or transfer to a standard blender to puree the date mixture until smooth and creamy. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, about 15 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and vanilla extract to the cooled date mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients completely.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, typically 20-25 minutes, until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the ice cream to firm up and develop full flavor complexity.
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Tips
- Use Medjool dates for the richest, most caramel-like sweetness
- Ensure your dates are thoroughly pureed for a smooth texture
- Chill all ingredients before mixing to help the ice cream freeze faster
- If you don't have an ice cream maker, try the no-churn method by whipping heavy cream before folding in the date mixture
- For extra texture, consider adding chopped candied ginger or toasted nuts when transferring to the freezer container
- Use a digital thermometer when heating the date mixture to prevent scorching
- For best flavor development, let the ice cream rest in the freezer overnight before serving
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 65mg