Indulge in a Creamy Delight: Tiramisu Ice Cream Recipe
Transform your love for classic Italian tiramisu into a luscious, coffee-flavored frozen treat. Perfect for dessert enthusiasts, this tiramisu ice cream recipe brings together the richness of mascarpone cheese, a hint of coffee liqueur, and the creaminess of a custard base. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a topping for brownies, cookies, or crepes, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
The Story Behind Tiramisu Ice Cream
Tiramisu, meaning “pick me up” in Italian, is an iconic dessert cherished worldwide for its blend of creamy, coffee-infused layers. This recipe takes the essence of tiramisu and transforms it into a frozen dessert that offers the same indulgent experience with a refreshing twist. By combining classic tiramisu ingredients like mascarpone, espresso, and coffee liqueur, this ice cream brings the authentic flavors of Italy to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Authentic Flavors: The combination of mascarpone cheese, espresso, and coffee liqueur mimics the traditional tiramisu profile.
Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it solo or pair it with baked goods like brownies or cookies.
Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create a gourmet dessert at home.
Customizable: Adjust the coffee intensity or add your favorite liqueur for a personalized touch.
The Key Ingredients and Their Roles
Whole Milk: Provides the base for a creamy custard.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smooth texture.
Egg Yolks: Create a velvety custard base.
Sugar: Balances the flavors and sweetens the dessert.
Mascarpone Cheese: Delivers the signature tiramisu flavor and creamy consistency.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
Instant Espresso Powder: Intensifies the coffee taste.
Fresh Espresso Coffee: Adds depth and authenticity.
Coffee Liqueur: Infuses a subtle boozy note, reminiscent of classic tiramisu.
Pro Tips for the Best Tiramisu Ice Cream
Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality mascarpone, fresh espresso, and real vanilla extract make a noticeable difference.
Don’t Overheat the Custard: Stir constantly and avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Chill Properly: Ensure the custard mixture is thoroughly cooled before churning to achieve the best texture.
Experiment: Add a dusting of cocoa powder or grated chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
Easy-to-Follow Recipe for Tiramisu Ice Cream
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling and freezing time)
Ingredients
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 egg yolks
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
1/4 cup freshly brewed espresso coffee (about one shot)
1/2 teaspoon coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Custard Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium-low until the mixture starts to simmer. Do not let it boil.
Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is pale and frothy. Stir in the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Use a spatula or wooden spoon instead of an electric mixer to avoid overworking the cheese.
Temper the Eggs:
Gradually add 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolk and mascarpone blend, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk. Stir continuously over medium heat for 5-8 minutes until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Cool the Custard:
Transfer the custard to a clean bowl and let it cool completely. To speed up the process, place the bowl over an ice bath or refrigerate it overnight.
Add Flavorings:
Once cooled, stir in the vanilla extract, instant espresso powder, freshly brewed espresso, and coffee liqueur.
Churn the Ice Cream:
Pour the custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Freeze Until Firm:
Transfer the churned ice cream to a parchment-lined 9”x13” pan. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for a few hours until firm.
Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop the tiramisu ice cream into bowls or onto your favorite desserts. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an authentic touch.
Notes:
This recipe yields slightly less than 1 quart of ice cream.
Texture may change slightly after freezing due to the mascarpone cheese.
Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
