Decadent Vanilla Bean Frozen Custard Delight
Indulge in the creamy, rich, and luxurious flavors of this Decadent Vanilla Bean Frozen Custard Delight. Crafted with real vanilla beans and a perfect blend of half-and-half and heavy cream, this simple yet sophisticated dessert is sure to impress your family and friends. Impressively smooth and velvety, each spoonful carries the warm essence of vanilla that melts in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion, from backyard barbecues to elegant dinner parties, this frozen custard can be served on its own or paired with fresh fruits, chocolate sauce, or crushed nuts for an extra special treat. Make it in advance and steal the show with a dessert that’s not only homemade but also rich in flavor!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
half-and-half
1 1/2 cups (used as the base for the custard)
granulated sugar
1 cup (sweetener for the custard)
vanilla bean
1 whole (split and scraped, adds natural vanilla flavor)
egg yolks
5 large (base for custard richness)
heavy whipping cream
1 1/2 cups (adds creaminess)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the half-and-half, granulated sugar, and both split and scraped vanilla bean along with the pod. Heat over low heat while whisking continuously to prevent a skin from forming. Remove from heat just before the mixture reaches simmering, ensuring it coats the back of a metal spoon.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until slightly thickened. Gradually drizzle in approximately half of the warm half-and-half mixture into the egg yolks, whisking continuously to temper them. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and maintains a smooth custard.
3
Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan with the remaining half-and-half mixture. Heat on low to medium-low, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and resembles custard. Once it simmers, remove from heat.
4
Pour the warm custard over heavy whipping cream in a mixing bowl. Stir gently until fully combined. To prevent a skin from forming as it cools, place a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the custard. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight, until thoroughly chilled.
5
Using an ice cream maker, freeze the custard according to the manufacturer’s instructions until reaching a soft-serve consistency, usually about 20-30 minutes. Transfer the custard to an airtight container and freeze for at least 8 hours until it firms up.
6
Once ready to serve, scoop out the custard, and if desired, top it with your choice of fruits, nuts, or sauces. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Vanilla Bean Frozen Custard Delight?
It is a rich, creamy, and luxurious frozen dessert made with real vanilla beans, egg yolks, half-and-half, and heavy cream.
What are the primary ingredients needed for this recipe?
The ingredients include half-and-half, granulated sugar, one whole vanilla bean, large egg yolks, and heavy whipping cream.
How many egg yolks are required?
This recipe requires 5 large egg yolks to achieve its signature custard richness.
How do I prepare the vanilla bean?
The vanilla bean should be split and scraped, and both the seeds and the pod are used during the heating process.
What is the first step in making the custard base?
In a medium saucepan, combine the half-and-half, granulated sugar, and vanilla bean, then heat over low heat while whisking continuously.
How do I prevent a skin from forming on the milk mixture?
Whisk the mixture continuously while heating and place plastic wrap directly on the surface while cooling.
What does 'tempering' the egg yolks mean?
Tempering involves gradually drizzling about half of the warm half-and-half mixture into the egg yolks while whisking to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
What should the consistency of the cooked custard look like?
The mixture should thicken until it resembles custard and coats the back of a metal spoon.
When do I add the heavy whipping cream?
Pour the warm cooked custard over the heavy whipping cream in a mixing bowl after it has thickened on the stove.
How long must the custard chill before churning?
The custard should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, though overnight is preferred for the best results.
Do I need an ice cream maker for this recipe?
Yes, an ice cream maker is used to freeze the custard to a soft-serve consistency.
How long does the custard take to churn?
It typically takes about 20-30 minutes in an ice cream maker to reach the proper consistency.
What consistency should the custard reach in the ice cream maker?
It should reach a soft-serve consistency before being transferred to the freezer.
How long should the custard freeze after churning?
It should be stored in an airtight container and frozen for at least 8 hours until it firms up.
How much granulated sugar is used?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of granulated sugar.
What is the role of half-and-half in this recipe?
Half-and-half serves as the primary liquid base for the custard.
Is this recipe suitable for elegant dinner parties?
Yes, its sophisticated flavor and velvety texture make it perfect for formal occasions.
Can I add toppings to this frozen custard?
Yes, it pairs well with fresh fruits, chocolate sauce, or crushed nuts.
What makes this a 'custard' rather than just ice cream?
The inclusion of 5 large egg yolks defines it as a custard, providing a richer and smoother texture.
Should I remove the vanilla bean pod?
The instructions involve heating the pod with the mixture, but it should be removed before the final freezing process.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 5 main ingredients in this recipe.
What heat setting should I use for the saucepan?
Use low to medium-low heat to ensure the mixture doesn't burn or scramble the eggs.
How should I store the finished product?
Store the frozen custard in an airtight container in the freezer.
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to make it in advance as it requires several hours of chilling and freezing.
What is the flavor profile of this dessert?
It features a deep, warm essence of natural vanilla with a rich, creamy finish.
Is the texture of this custard smooth?
Yes, the recipe emphasizes a velvety and impressively smooth texture.
What happens if I don't whisk continuously?
A skin may form on the surface of the milk, or the egg yolks might cook unevenly.
Is this a good treat for summer?
Absolutely, it is tagged as a 'summer treat' and is ideal for backyard barbecues.
What amount of half-and-half is needed?
You will need 1 1/2 cups of half-and-half.
What amount of heavy whipping cream is needed?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream.