She Strengthens

Lavender Mint Ice Cream: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Flavor

When it comes to unique ice cream flavors, few combinations are as intriguing as lavender and mint. This refreshing twist on a classic flavor is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

The Inspiration Behind the Recipe

This recipe draws inspiration from two popular fresh mint ice cream recipes, with the added twist of lavender. The result is a flavor profile that’s reminiscent of a hot drink enjoyed at a popular coffee chain, where lavender mint green tea was combined with French Deluxe Vanilla powder.

A Simple yet Impressive Recipe

With a yield of 1 quart and a difficulty level of easy, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to try their hand at making ice cream at home. The total preparation time is approximately 1 hour, with 30 minutes of active time required.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons fresh lavender (or 1 tablespoon dried lavender)
• 1 ½ cups milk (such as 1% Simply Smart)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 2/3 cup sugar, divided
• 5 egg yolks
• ½ teaspoon coarse salt
• ½ teaspoon Penzey’s Double-Strength Vanilla

Steeping the Magic

To begin, heat the cream, milk, mint, lavender, vanilla, and 1/3 cup of sugar in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat and let steep for 25-30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together and the mixture to infuse with the essence of lavender and mint.

Tempering the Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, salt, and 1/3 cup of sugar. Using a fine-mesh sieve, strain the milk mixture into a separate bowl, then temper the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks gradually, whisking vigorously to prevent curdling.

Cooking and Chilling

Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until it begins to thicken. Use a thermometer to confirm the temperature has reached 170°F. Strain the mixture into a clean bowl and cool over an ice water bath. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight before processing according to your ice cream machine’s instructions.

The Final Result

The end result is a creamy, dreamy ice cream that’s sure to impress your friends and family. With its unique flavor profile and refreshing twist on a classic, this lavender mint ice cream is the perfect treat for warm weather or any time you need a pick-me-up. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the magic of this unforgettable flavor combination!