Name: Cinnamon Ice Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk (Provides a creamy base.); 3/4 cup sugar (Adds sweetness to balance the spice.); Pinch salt (Enhances the overall flavor.); 10 cinnamon sticks (broken up, for that signature cinnamon flavor.); 2 cups heavy cream (Ensures a rich and creamy texture.); 5 large egg yolks (Acts as a natural thickener and adds richness.); Ground cinnamon optional (For added flavor and garnish.)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a scoop of Cinnamon Ice Cream, with its warm, nostalgic flavor that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. The combination of sugar, rich cream, and aromatic cinnamon creates a dessert that’s not just a treat, but an experience. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or during a winter holiday gathering, this ice cream is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.

Cinnamon Ice Cream is a delightful twist on traditional vanilla and provides a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a variety of desserts. Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why It’s My Go-To

Cinnamon Ice Cream has earned its spot as my go-to dessert for many reasons. Firstly, the flavor is deeply satisfying; it’s sweet yet spicy, making each bite intriguing. Secondly, it’s versatile. It can complement an array of treats from pies to cakes or stand alone as a delightful dessert. Finally, making it at home allows me to control the ingredients, ensuring a rich and creamy texture that store-bought varieties can’t compete with.

What You’ll Gather

To create your very own Cinnamon Ice Cream, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup (250ml) whole milk – Provides a creamy base.
3/4 cup (150g) sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the spice.
Pinch of salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
10 cinnamon sticks, broken up – For that signature cinnamon flavor.
2 cups (500ml) heavy cream – Ensures a rich and creamy texture.
5 large egg yolks – Acts as a natural thickener and adds richness.
Ground cinnamon (optional) – For added flavor and garnish.

Essential Tools for Success

Before we start, ensure you have the following tools on hand:

Medium saucepan – For heating the milk and cream mixture.
Whisk – Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly.
Mixing bowls – For combining the egg yolks and sugar.
Ice cream maker – Necessary for churning the mixture into ice cream.
Fine mesh strainer – To strain the cinnamon sticks and any lumps.
Container for freezing – To store the finished ice cream.

Build Cinnamon Ice Cream Step by Step

Step 1: Infuse the Milk and Cream

In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, sugar, salt, and the broken cinnamon sticks. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it steep for about 30 minutes. This allows the cinnamon to fully infuse its flavor into the cream.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Yolks

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. This step is crucial as it will help create a rich custard base for your ice cream.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks

Once the milk and cream mixture has steeped, slowly pour it into the bowl with the egg yolks, whisking constantly. This process, known as tempering, prevents the yolks from scrambling.

Step 4: Cook the Mixture

Return the combined mixture to the saucepan over medium heat. Cook gently while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil.

Step 5: Strain and Chill

Remove the saucepan from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove the cinnamon sticks and any lumps. Stir in the remaining cup of heavy cream. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until thoroughly chilled.

Step 6: Churn the Ice Cream

Once chilled, churn the mixture in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes. The ice cream will have a soft-serve consistency when done.

Step 7: Freeze and Enjoy

Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up. When ready to serve, you can sprinkle some ground cinnamon on top for an extra flavor kick if desired.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

While the classic Cinnamon Ice Cream is delightful on its own, here are some seasonal flavor boosts to consider:

Vanilla Bean: Add the seeds from 1 vanilla bean for a richer flavor.
Pumpkin Spice: Incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice for a fall twist.
Maple Syrup: Substitute some sugar with maple syrup for a unique depth of flavor.
Nutmeg: Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor.

Learn from These Mistakes

Making ice cream at home can be a little tricky, so here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Not Straining: Always strain your mixture to ensure a smooth texture.
Skipping Chilling: Don’t skip chilling the mixture! This step is crucial for the ice cream to churn properly.
Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the custard, as it can turn grainy.
Not Timing the Churning: Pay attention to the time when churning; over-churning can lead to a butter-like consistency.

Storage & Reheat Guide

To enjoy your Cinnamon Ice Cream at its best, follow these storage tips:

Freezing: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It should last for about 2-3 weeks.
Softening: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly.
Avoid Freezer Burn: Make sure to press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container to prevent freezer burn.

Questions People Ask

Can I use ground cinnamon instead of cinnamon sticks?

While using ground cinnamon is possible, cinnamon sticks provide a more subtle and complex flavor as they infuse. If you do use ground cinnamon, start with about 1-2 teaspoons during the cooking process, and adjust to taste.

What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?

If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir every 30 minutes for the first few hours to help achieve a creamier texture.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! For a fun twist, add mix-ins during the last few minutes of churning, or fold them in just before transferring to the storage container.

How can I make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative. Make sure to use a suitable egg substitute as well, such as flax eggs or a store-bought egg replacer.

Hungry for More?

If you’re craving more delicious homemade ice cream recipes, consider trying out flavors like Vanilla Bean, Chocolate Mint, or even a refreshing Strawberry Sorbet. Each recipe offers a unique take on frozen treats that are sure to impress your friends and family.

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating your own desserts, and Cinnamon Ice Cream is a perfect way to start. The rich, creamy texture combined with the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon is a classic that never goes out of style.

So, grab your ingredients and tools, and treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of this delightful ice cream. You’ll be glad you did!