Maple Bacon Bliss Ice Cream
Inspired by the unique flavor pairings showcased on culinary competition shows, this Maple Bacon Bliss Ice Cream elevates classic bacon to a whole new level. Combining the savory goodness of candied maple bacon with rich, creamy ice cream, this dessert is a delightful fusion of sweet and salty. The quality of the maple syrup plays a crucial role in the final flavor, so choose a high-grade syrup for the best results. This unexpected treat is sure to impress your friends and family, turning an unusual concept into an instant favorite that you'll wish was stocked in store freezers everywhere. Perfect for a hot day or as a sensational ending to any meal, indulge in the creamy, crunchy, and utterly decadent experience of Maple Bacon Bliss Ice Cream!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
maple bacon
8 slices (candied)
brown sugar
1/4 cup (for bacon candy)
maple syrup
1 tablespoon (for bacon candy)
half-and-half cream
2 cups (for ice cream base)
heavy cream
1 cup (for ice cream base)
brown sugar
1/3 cup (for ice cream base)
vanilla sugar
1/3 cup (for ice cream base)
maple syrup
1/3 cup (for ice cream base)
kosher salt
1 pinch (for ice cream base)
maple flavoring
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and 1/4 cup of brown sugar until a thick paste forms.
3
Lay the bacon slices out on a cooling rack positioned over a lined baking sheet to catch drips and make cleanup easier.
4
Spread half of the brown sugar-maple paste evenly over the top side of the bacon slices.
5
Bake the bacon in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it and flip each slice over.
6
Spread the remaining paste over the newly exposed side of the bacon, then return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
7
Check the bacon again: flip it one last time and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes until it's beautifully glazed and crispy.
8
Once done, allow the candied bacon to cool completely before chopping it into small pieces.
9
For the Ice Cream, combine the half-and-half, heavy cream, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup vanilla sugar, 1/3 cup maple syrup, a pinch of kosher salt, and, if desired, 1/4 teaspoon of maple flavoring in a medium saucepan.
10
Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches 170°F (77°C), stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugars.
11
Once heated, remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool completely; this can be expedited by placing it in the refrigerator.
12
After the mixture has cooled, pour it into your ice cream maker (ensure it has been frozen for at least 24 hours).
13
Churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. When it reaches a soft-serve consistency, gently fold in the chopped candied bacon.
14
Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for a few hours to firm up before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maple Bacon Bliss Ice Cream?
It is a decadent frozen dessert that combines the savory goodness of candied maple bacon with a rich, creamy ice cream base for a sweet and salty fusion.
What inspired the creation of this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by the unique flavor pairings often showcased on culinary competition shows.
How many slices of bacon are needed?
The recipe requires 8 slices of maple bacon.
What temperature should the oven be for candying the bacon?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
How do I make the glaze for the candied bacon?
Mix together 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and 1/4 cup of brown sugar until a thick paste forms.
Why is a cooling rack used during the bacon baking process?
Positioning a cooling rack over a lined baking sheet helps catch drips and makes cleanup easier while ensuring the bacon gets crispy.
How long does the bacon bake on the first side?
The bacon should bake for an initial 10 minutes before being flipped.
How many times should the bacon be flipped?
The bacon is flipped at the 10-minute mark, and then once more before the final 5-10 minutes of baking.
When should the candied bacon be chopped?
Allow the candied bacon to cool completely before chopping it into small pieces.
What are the primary dairy ingredients in the ice cream base?
The base uses 2 cups of half-and-half cream and 1 cup of heavy cream.
What types of sugar are used for the ice cream base?
The ice cream base calls for 1/3 cup of brown sugar and 1/3 cup of vanilla sugar.
How much maple syrup goes into the ice cream mixture?
You should add 1/3 cup of maple syrup to the ice cream mixture.
What temperature must the ice cream base reach on the stove?
Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches 170°F (77°C).
Is it necessary to stir the ice cream mixture while heating?
Yes, you should stir occasionally to ensure the sugars dissolve properly.
What should I do once the mixture reaches 170°F?
Remove it from the heat and allow it to cool completely before churning.
How can I speed up the cooling process for the base?
The cooling process can be expedited by placing the mixture in the refrigerator.
How long should the ice cream maker bowl be frozen beforehand?
Ensure the ice cream maker bowl has been frozen for at least 24 hours.
When is the chopped bacon added to the ice cream?
Gently fold in the chopped candied bacon once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency during churning.
How should the ice cream be stored after churning?
Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for a few hours to allow it to firm up.
Is the maple flavoring required?
No, the 1/4 teaspoon of maple flavoring is optional.
What type of salt is used in this recipe?
The recipe recommends a pinch of kosher salt.
Why is the quality of maple syrup important?
A high-grade syrup is crucial for achieving the best final flavor in the ice cream.
What tags are associated with this dessert?
Tags include ice cream, dessert, bacon, maple, savory-sweet, frozen treat, homemade, and gourmet.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe contains 10 ingredients.
Is this ice cream suitable for special occasions?
Yes, it is described as a sensational ending to any meal and a treat sure to impress friends and family.
What does the description say about the final texture?
It is described as a creamy, crunchy, and utterly decadent experience.
Can I use regular sugar instead of vanilla sugar?
The recipe specifically calls for vanilla sugar for the ice cream base to enhance the flavor profile.
Does the recipe suggest a specific brand of ice cream maker?
No, it suggests following the manufacturer's instructions for whatever ice cream maker you are using.
What makes this an 'unexpected treat'?
The use of candied bacon in a sweet frozen dessert turns an unusual concept into an instant favorite.
Is this a good recipe for a hot summer day?
Absolutely, it is noted as being perfect for a hot day.