As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of lavender and gold, I found myself wandering through a quaint little farmers’ market. The air was infused with the sweet fragrance of blooming lavender and the rich aroma of honey. It was in that moment, surrounded by vibrant flowers and cheerful vendors, that the inspiration for this unique ice cream struck me. I envisioned a creamy, dreamy concoction that would capture the essence of that enchanting evening.
This Lavender Honey Ice Cream is a delightful blend of floral notes and natural sweetness, perfect for warm summer nights or any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance. Let’s dive into this whimsical treat that will surely transport you to a peaceful meadow with every scoop!
Ingredients
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
4 large egg yolks
Instructions
Begin by steeping the lavender; in a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and dried lavender. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it starts to bubble, remove it from the heat and cover the saucepan. Allow the lavender to steep for about 30 minutes, letting the flavors infuse beautifully.
After the lavender has steeped, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lavender buds, pressing gently to extract all the creamy goodness. Return the infused cream mixture to the saucepan and stir in the honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Heat the mixture over low heat until the honey is fully dissolved.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become light and frothy. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Then, return this custard mixture back to the saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Once thickened, remove the custard from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Then, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely cold.
When the mixture is chilled, churn it in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once it reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze it for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Serve your whimsical Lavender Honey Ice Cream in elegant bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of dried lavender or a drizzle of honey for that extra touch of sophistication. Each bite is a reminder of that magical evening at the market, a blend of flavors that are both unique and delightful.