Strawberry Basil Ice Cream Recipe

Strawberry basil ice cream is a refreshing and creative twist on the classic strawberry flavor. The sweetness of ripe strawberries pairs beautifully with the fresh, aromatic notes of basil, creating a uniquely delightful dessert that’s perfect for warm weather. This recipe is simple to follow and results in a creamy, fruity ice cream that you can enjoy as a treat or serve at gatherings to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup of granulated sugar, divided
2 cups of heavy cream
1 cup of whole milk
1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

Macerate the Strawberries
Place the sliced strawberries in a bowl and add 1/2 cup of sugar. Stir well and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This process, known as maceration, draws out the juices from the strawberries, intensifying their flavor and sweetness.
Blend the Strawberries
After the strawberries have released their juices, blend the mixture using a blender or food processor until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the blender a few times to leave small pieces of strawberry in the mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Base

Heat the Cream and Milk
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
Add the Basil
Once the cream mixture is hot, add the chopped basil leaves. Allow the basil to steep in the cream for about 10 minutes, infusing its aromatic flavor into the base. Stir occasionally to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Strain the Basil
After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the basil leaves. This step helps maintain a smooth texture while retaining the basil’s fresh flavor.
Combine with the Strawberry Puree
Stir the strained cream mixture into the strawberry puree, adding the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined. The salt enhances the flavors, and the vanilla adds a layer of warmth to the ice cream.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Cool the Base
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is thoroughly chilled. Chilling the base before churning helps create a smoother, creamier texture in the final product.

Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

Prepare the Ice Cream Maker
Follow the instructions of your ice cream maker to prepare it for churning. Pour the chilled strawberry and basil mixture into the ice cream maker.
Churn the Ice Cream
Churn the mixture according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20–25 minutes, or until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. The churning process incorporates air into the ice cream, making it light and creamy.

Step 5: Freeze and Serve

Transfer to a Container
Once the ice cream reaches the desired consistency, transfer it to a lidded container. Cover the surface with parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming, then seal with the lid.
Freeze Until Firm
Place the container in the freezer for at least 2–4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm enough to scoop.
Serve
Scoop the strawberry basil ice cream into bowls or cones, and garnish with fresh basil leaves or a few strawberry slices for a decorative touch. Enjoy the creamy texture and the refreshing blend of flavors!

Tips for the Best Strawberry Basil Ice Cream

Choose Ripe Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries provide the best flavor and sweetness. If fresh strawberries are not available, you can use frozen ones, but be sure to thaw them completely before blending.
Infuse the Basil: The longer you steep the basil leaves in the hot cream, the stronger the flavor will be. If you prefer a more subtle basil taste, reduce the steeping time to 5 minutes.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you like a sweeter ice cream, you can add an additional tablespoon of sugar to the mixture. For a more natural sweetener, try substituting honey or agave syrup for some of the sugar.

Variations on Strawberry Basil Ice Cream

Lemon Zest Twist
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the strawberry mixture for a zesty twist. The citrus pairs beautifully with both strawberries and basil, enhancing the freshness of the ice cream.
Coconut Milk Version
Replace the whole milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free and vegan-friendly option. The subtle coconut flavor complements the strawberries and basil, adding an exotic touch.
Chocolate Drizzle
Serve the ice cream with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an extra layer of flavor. The richness of the chocolate pairs well with the fruitiness of the strawberries and the freshness of the basil.
Mint Variation
Swap the basil for fresh mint leaves if you prefer a classic strawberry mint combination. Mint provides a cooling effect and a familiar, refreshing flavor that’s perfect for hot summer days.

Nutritional Benefits of Strawberry Basil Ice Cream

This strawberry basil ice cream is not only delicious but also contains some beneficial ingredients:

Vitamin C from Strawberries: Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune health and skin vitality. Including fresh strawberries in this recipe allows you to enjoy a tasty dessert while reaping these benefits.
Basil’s Antioxidants: Fresh basil leaves contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that promote overall health. Adding basil to ice cream not only enhances the flavor but also incorporates these beneficial properties into your dessert.
Dairy’s Protein and Calcium: Using whole milk and heavy cream provides a source of protein and calcium, which are essential for strong bones and muscle health.

Storing Strawberry Basil Ice Cream

In the Freezer: Store the ice cream in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the freezer. Place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing with the lid to minimize ice crystal formation.
Use Within 2 Weeks: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy the ice cream within two weeks. After that time, ice crystals may begin to form, affecting the creaminess.

Serving Ideas for Strawberry Basil Ice Cream

Ice Cream Sandwiches
Scoop the ice cream between two homemade cookies (sugar or oatmeal work great) for a delicious and refreshing ice cream sandwich.
Smoothie Addition
Add a scoop of strawberry basil ice cream to your morning smoothie for a creamy texture and a burst of flavor. It pairs well with banana, almond milk, and a handful of spinach for a nutrient-packed drink.
Affogato Twist
For an elegant dessert, serve a scoop of strawberry basil ice cream with a shot of chilled espresso poured over it. The combination of coffee, strawberries, and basil creates a sophisticated flavor profile.

Conclusion

Strawberry basil ice cream is a delightful and refreshing treat that offers a twist on traditional strawberry flavors. With the natural sweetness of strawberries and the aromatic freshness of basil, this ice cream is a summer essential. Easy to make and full of vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for serving at gatherings, enjoying as a snack, or indulging in a scoop after a meal. Try this recipe and experiment with variations to create your own signature version of this delicious dessert!

Strawberry Basil Ice Cream Recipe