Salted Caramel Ice Cream

Indulge in the luxurious blend of sweet and salty with this Salted Caramel Ice Cream. This homemade treat combines the rich, buttery flavor of caramel with a hint of sea salt, creating a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet caramel and sea salt offers a complex and satisfying taste.
• Creamy Texture: Using heavy cream and whole milk ensures a smooth and velvety consistency.
• Homemade Goodness: Making it from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize to your preference.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it on its own, with toppings, or alongside other desserts for an enhanced experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Stir continuously until the butter has melted and the mixture becomes thick and bubbly, approximately 4 minutes.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the whole milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the caramel mixture. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate until it is thoroughly chilled.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. For a soft-serve consistency, serve immediately. For a firmer texture, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for several hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes (excluding chilling and freezing time)

Variations

• Add-Ins: Incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or swirls of caramel sauce for added texture and flavor.
• Alternative Sweeteners: Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and a plant-based butter alternative to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
• Serving: Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to achieve the desired consistency.

FAQs

What type of salt is best for this recipe?

Fine sea salt is recommended as it dissolves easily and provides a balanced salty flavor without overpowering the caramel.

Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes, you can pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, freeze for about 45 minutes, then stir vigorously to break up ice crystals. Repeat this process every 30 minutes for about 3 hours.

How can I prevent ice crystals from forming?

Ensure the mixture is thoroughly chilled before churning, and store the finished ice cream in an airtight container to minimize air exposure.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

While homemade caramel provides the best flavor, you can use high-quality store-bought caramel sauce as a convenient alternative.

Is it possible to make this recipe sugar-free?

You can experiment with sugar substitutes like erythritol or stevia, but be aware that it may alter the texture and flavor of the ice cream.

How long should I churn the ice cream?

Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker’s instructions, typically around 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

Can I add mix-ins to this ice cream?

Absolutely. Add ingredients like crushed cookies, nuts, or chocolate chips during the last few minutes of churning.

What’s the best way to serve this ice cream?

Serve it in bowls or cones, and consider topping with additional caramel sauce, sea salt flakes, or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

How do I make the ice cream firmer?

After churning, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for several hours to achieve a firmer consistency.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients, but ensure your ice cream maker has the capacity to handle the increased volume.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Ice Cream offers a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors, making it a favorite among dessert enthusiasts. By following this recipe, you can create a creamy, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or as an accompaniment to other desserts, this ice cream is sure to impress.

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