Fans of homemade ice cream are in for a treat! Why? Because today we’ll be looking at how to make ice cream at home using extra virgin olive oil. Yes, you’ve read that right. Extra virgin olive oil may not seem like the obvious choice in terms of ingredients, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the results. Its silky texture and fruity tasting notes work wonders in traditional ice cream recipes, adding depth and flavor. Simply put: to taste it is to believe it. So, without further ado, let’s get into this.
Why Olive Oil?
Choosing olive oil as a component in ice cream may initially seem unconventional, but it serves numerous purposes. Its unique profile offers distinct results when combined with creamy bases. This ingredient not only adds richness but also brings a sophisticated flavor, making it an appealing choice for gourmet ice creams.
Benefits of Using Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Ice Cream
Using quality olive oil in ice cream recipes elevates the flavor of these beloved desserts, bringing fruitiness and aroma to the table. What’s more, extra virgin olive oil boasts an array of health benefits to boot. Recent studies suggest that extra virgin olive oil is linked to improved cardiovascular health. Rich in fiber, monounsaturated fats, and antioxidants, extra virgin olive oil is a simple ingredient that boosts the nutritional profile of desserts like these, especially when used in place of other vegetable oils or butter. Now, let’s dive into some recipes!
Fresh and Fruity Ice Cream with a Citrus Burst
As the seasons change so too do our cravings. Enter La Española with the perfect ice cream recipe for the warm summer months: Olive Oil and Orange Ice Cream. Sweet and Zesty, this unique ice cream variety is the perfect way to add extra nutritional value to your summer treats. Made with La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil, fresh orange juice, and orange zest, this delightfully creamy dessert is bursting with citrus flavors. It may seem like a deceptively simple innovation to traditional ice cream, but the addition of extra virgin olive oil truly is worth it. Simply put, it’s ice cream as you’ve never tasted it before.
Dairy-Free Sorbet Recipe
For those among you who prefer ice cream to be both dairy-free and vegan-friendly, consider trying sorbet. Luckily, we’ve got a truly exquisite sorbet recipe with olive oil that you can try at home. This Blood Orange and Olive Oil Sorbet is made with La Española Gourmet Extra Virgin Olive Oil and is perfect for anyone who loves cold, zesty, refreshing desserts without using dairy or animal products. Once again, extra virgin olive oil adds a new dimension to the dessert, granting it a silky texture and refreshing fruitiness. Best of all, this recipe takes only 15 minutes to make. Gourmet desserts don’t come easier than that.
Pairing Ice Cream with Crowd-Pleasing Treats
Now that you’ve got two showstopping ice cream recipes to add to your repertoire, it’s time to look at the perfect pairing. Nothing says comforting quite like a creamy scoop of ice cream on top of some warm, freshly-baked waffles. If you’re looking for a healthy and wholesome way to prepare waffles without using butter, how about trying your hand at this Waffles and Vanilla Ice Cream recipe? Made with mild-tasting La Española Classic Olive Oil, feel free to get creative with your choice of ice cream flavor. Our aforementioned olive oil and orange ice cream add a citrus twist to homemade waffles.
Storage and Preservation Tips
Proper storage and preservation are essential to maintaining the quality and texture of olive oil ice cream. After preparing the ice cream, it should be transferred to an airtight container to minimize exposure to air and avoid freezer burn.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Layer a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. This helps prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Store in the coldest part of the freezer, typically towards the back, to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Consume within two weeks for the best flavor and texture, as the ice cream can gradually lose quality over time.
Following these guidelines allows the vibrant flavors of olive oil ice cream to be appreciated fully for as long as possible.
Desserts Made Wholesome
If you’re someone who loves getting creative in the kitchen, then we’ve got a host of delicious dessert ideas for you to try at home. In 5 Fresh Desserts with One Secret Ingredient, you’ll find a host of varied and delightful sweet treats made with olive oil. These recipes are perfect for anyone wishing to make nutritious desserts for friends and family.
For more recipe inspiration and cooking tips, check out our blog.