Star Anise Ice Cream
Dive into the world of bold, aromatic flavors with this luxurious Star Anise Ice Cream, the perfect dessert for adventurous foodies and spice enthusiasts alike. Infused with the warm, licorice-like essence of whole star anise pods, this silky-smooth ice cream boasts a creamy custard base made from a harmonious blend of heavy cream, whole milk, and egg yolks. The star anise is steeped to perfection, allowing its distinctive flavor to shine, while a touch of vanilla extract and a hint of salt balance the sweetness. Crafted using classic tempering and churning techniques, this recipe delivers a dessert with a velvety texture and an exotic twist. Serve it on its own for an elegant treat or pair it with spiced cakes and tarts for an unforgettable dessert experience.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Heavy cream
- 1 cup Whole milk
- 0.75 cup Sugar
- 5 large Egg yolks
- 4 whole Star anise pods
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 0.125 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and star anise pods. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is just beginning to steam (do not let it boil). Remove from heat and allow the star anise to steep in the warm milk mixture for 20-30 minutes for a stronger flavor.
While the star anise is steeping, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and salt in a medium mixing bowl until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.
Once steeped, remove the star anise pods from the milk mixture and reheat until warm (not boiling). Slowly temper the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, adding a small amount at a time and whisking constantly to avoid cooking the eggs.
Pour the tempered mixture back into the saucepan and return to medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula, until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon (about 170-175°F). Do not let it boil.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any curdled bits and ensure a smooth texture.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Once the custard is fully chilled, churn it in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up before serving.
Scoop and serve your luscious Star Anise Ice Cream as is or pair it with a dessert of your choice!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2729 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 192.8 g | 247% | |
| Saturated Fat | 108.9 g | 544% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1432 mg | 477% | |
| Sodium | 592 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 182.3 g | 66% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.0 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 163.7 g | ||
| Protein | 25.5 g | 51% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.0 mcg | 25% | |
| Calcium | 481 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 4.8 mg | 27% | |
| Potassium | 738 mg | 16% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
