Honey Sweetened Mixed Berry Raw Milk Ice Cream
This recipe combines the bright flavors of mixed berries with the rich creaminess of raw milk, naturally sweetened with honey. It's a delightful homemade ice cream that's both refreshing and satisfying.
Servings 8
Calories 367kcal
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker optional
Ingredients
- 2 Cups of Mixed berries (fresh or frozen, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
- 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Honey
- 2 Cups Heavy Cream Raw or Pasteurized
- 1 1/2 Cups Whole Milk (preferably raw milk for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits, but pasteurized can be used)
Instructions
- Prepare the Berry Swirl: In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, lemon juice, granulated sugar, and honey.
- Cook the Berry Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently and cook until the sugar is completely dissolved and the berries begin to soften and release their juices. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Thicken the Berry Swirl (Optional): Continue to cook the berry mixture for another 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly to a syrupy consistency. Remove from the heat.
- Smooth the Berry Swirl (Optional): If you prefer a smoother swirl in your ice cream, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the warm berry mixture until your desired consistency is reached. Be cautious when blending hot liquids. Alternatively, you can press the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds.
- Chill the Berry Swirl: Pour the cooked berry mixture into a shallow bowl or container and let it cool completely in the refrigerator. This will take at least 2 hours. Make sure it's thoroughly chilled before adding it to the ice cream base.
- Combine the Ice Cream Base: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and whole milk until well combined.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the cream and milk mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes around 20-30 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened to a soft-serve consistency.
- Add the Berry Swirl: Once the ice cream has finished churning, gently swirl in the chilled berry mixture. You can add it all at once or in layers for a more ribboned effect. Avoid overmixing, as this can cause the swirl to disappear into the ice cream base.
- Freeze to Solidify: Transfer the ice cream into airtight containers. Place the containers in the freezer and freeze for at least 3 hours, or until the ice cream is firm enough to scoop.
Notes
- Raw Milk: Using high-quality raw milk will contribute to a richer and more flavorful ice cream. If you don't have access to raw milk, pasteurized whole milk will also work.
- Time crunch? You can add the berry mixture with the cream base right at the get-go. You won't have the swirl effect, but it will still be delicious.
- Berry Variations: Feel free to adjust the type and ratio of berries according to your preference.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Taste the berry mixture before chilling and adjust the amount of sugar or honey to your liking, keeping in mind that freezing can slightly reduce the perceived sweetness.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this honey-sweetened mixed berry ice cream on its own, with fresh fruit, or as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite desserts.