As I stood in my kitchen one sunny afternoon, the scent of sweet plums wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a summer orchard. That’s when I decided to embark on a delicious adventure with this Roasted Plum Ice Cream. Not only does this recipe celebrate the sweet, caramelized flavors of roasted plums, but it also boasts an irresistible creaminess that makes it perfect for those hot summer days. Plus, with a clever twist of using gelatin as a stabilizer, you’ll find each scoop smooth and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re surprising friends at a backyard barbecue or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dessert is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Curious how to create this delightful frozen treat? Let’s dive in!
Why is Roasted Plum Ice Cream a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The rich sweetness of roasted plums mingles beautifully with creamy undertones, creating an unforgettable taste that scream summer.
Versatile Options: Want a dairy-free version? Simply substitute with almond milk or coconut cream for all the indulgence without the dairy!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, this ice cream is sure to win over family and friends, making every scoop a memory.
Quick and Easy: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip this up and enjoy a delicious homemade dessert in no time.
Unique Texture: The clever use of gelatin yields a smooth, creamy consistency that takes your homemade ice cream to the next level.
For even more summertime inspiration, check out our Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup or explore delightful variations like Pumpkin Cream Cheese.
Plum Ice Cream Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base
- Ripe Plums – The star of the show, choose sweet and ripe ones for the most vibrant flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth and enhances caramelization during roasting, bringing out the plummy goodness.
- Gelatin – A stabilizer that ensures a dreamy, smooth texture; substitute with carrageenan for a vegan adaptation.
- Whole Milk – Essential for creaminess; opt for full-fat for the best results.
- Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious richness, making each scoop feel indulgent.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mix; adjust based on your taste preferences.
- Salt – A pinch elevates the sweetness, balancing all flavors perfectly.
For Serving Suggestions
- Crumbled Cookies – Add texture and a delightful crunch by topping with your favorite cookies.
- Fresh Fruit Slices – Elevate the presentation and flavor with juicy fruit slices, like strawberries or additional plums!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Plum Ice Cream
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your delightful journey towards making Plum Ice Cream by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Setting the right temperature is crucial as it prepares the perfect environment for the plums to caramelize nicely. While the oven warms, gather your ingredients and grab a baking dish to set the stage for those luscious flavors.
Step 2: Roast the Plums
Slice your ripe plums in half, keeping the skins on, and generously coat them with brown sugar. Place them cut-side up in your baking dish, and roast in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until they’re soft and their juices have bubbled up. You’ll know they’re ready when the sweet aroma of caramelized fruit fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Prepare the Gelatin
As your plums are roasting, take a small bowl and mix your gelatin with 2 tablespoons of water, allowing it to soften while the flavors of the plums deepen. This step is essential for achieving that dreamily smooth texture in your Plum Ice Cream. Set the bowl aside and let the gelatin work its magic.
Step 4: Create the Ice Cream Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture gently over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves completely, but be careful not to bring it to a boil. This creamy base will be the heart of your Plum Ice Cream, so keep an eye on it!
Step 5: Blend the Roasted Plums
Once the plums are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Add the plums (along with their juices) to your milk mixture, then blend using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender. Blend on high until smooth, ensuring no chunks remain for that velvety ice cream texture.
Step 6: Incorporate the Gelatin
Slowly pour the softened gelatin into your blended plum mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure it dissolves completely. This stabilizer is key to achieving a creamy consistency in your Plum Ice Cream without any icy crystals. Give it another quick blend if necessary, then allow it to cool a bit more.
Step 7: Chill the Mixture
Transfer your plum-infused mixture to a container and place it in the refrigerator to chill, aiming for at least 40°F (4°C). This chilling step is vital as it enhances the flavors and prepares your mixture for churning in the ice cream maker, leading to a wonderfully smooth and rich Plum Ice Cream.
Step 8: Churn the Ice Cream
Once your mixture has chilled thoroughly, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually around 20–30 minutes. Keep an eye on the texture, as it should thicken and become creamy. The churning process is where the magic happens, turning your mixture into luscious Plum Ice Cream.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Roasted Plum Ice Cream treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can roast the plums and prepare the ice cream base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roast the plums as instructed, let them cool, and then blend them into the ice cream mixture. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator to ensure it’s at least 40°F (4°C) when you’re ready to churn. To maintain the best quality, keep the ice cream mixture airtight and refrigerated. When it’s time to churn, pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker, and enjoy a smooth dessert that’s just as delicious, all while cutting prep time during your busy week!
Plum Ice Cream Variations & Substitutions
Explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make your Plum Ice Cream experience uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or coconut cream for a rich, creamy dairy-free treat. Your taste buds won’t miss the cream!
- Vegan Gelatin: Use carrageenan instead of gelatin for a completely vegan adaptation without losing that luscious texture.
- Flavor Boost: Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavor complexity.
- Chunky Add-ins: Mix in chopped roasted nuts or chocolate chips at the end of churning for a delightful crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for a surprising spicy twist that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Fresh Herbs: Infuse your ice cream base with a few sprigs of fresh mint or basil while heating the milk for a refreshing herbal note.
- Fruit Medley: Blend in other roasted fruits like peaches or cherries to create a mixed fruit ice cream that’s bursting with flavor.
- Reduced Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a healthier version.
Want more ideas? Try incorporating flavors from our Cookies Cream Peanut or indulge in a slice of our Lemon Cream Cheese for fresh inspiration!
How to Store and Freeze Plum Ice Cream
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Fridge: While it’s best enjoyed straight after churning, if you have leftovers, you can store your Plum Ice Cream in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container, although the texture may soften.
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Freezer: For longer preservation, keep your Plum Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer; it will maintain optimal quality for up to 2 weeks. Before serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
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Reheating: If your ice cream becomes too firm in the freezer, simply let it sit out for a few minutes before scooping or use a warm spoon to help create those perfect scoops.
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Portioning: For easy servings, consider using ice cream scoops or pre-portioning your Plum Ice Cream into smaller containers before freezing. This way, you’ll have sweet summer treats ready whenever the craving strikes!
What to Serve with Creamy Roasted Plum Ice Cream?
Indulging in this luscious treat opens up a world of delightful pairings that will complement its summery flavors.
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Crispy Almond Biscotti: Their crunch adds a delightful contrast to the creamy texture, perfect for dipping and enjoying with each scoop.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of these vibrant herbs brightens the dish, enhancing the fruity notes while offering a refreshing aromatic touch.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A rich, warm chocolate sauce elevates the creaminess and introduces a luxurious flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted plums’ sweetness.
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Graham Cracker Crumbs: This ingredient provides a satisfying crunch and nostalgic flavor that ties the whole dessert together, perfect for a textural surprise in each bite.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of fruity Sauvignon Blanc complements the dessert beautifully, accentuating the plum flavors and enhancing a tropical feel.
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Caramelized Coconut Flakes: These add a tropical twist and subtle sweetness, creating a contrast that makes each scoop even more addictive.
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Honeyed Yogurt: A dollop serves as a tangy contrast to the sweet ice cream, adding creaminess and a delightful complexity.
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Berries Medley: Fresh, juicy berries create a colorful and vibrant plate, bringing brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the ice cream.
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Peanut Butter Swirl: Adds an unexpected nutty flavor that pairs surprisingly well with plums, making each bite addictive and delicious.
Expert Tips for the Best Plum Ice Cream
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Choose Ripe Plums: Opt for plums that are sweet and fully ripe; this will enhance the overall flavor of your ice cream.
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Gelatin Dissolution: Ensure your gelatin is completely dissolved before adding it to the mixture to prevent any unwanted texture issues in the final Plum Ice Cream.
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Chill Thoroughly: Chill your mixture to at least 40°F (4°C) before churning for the creamiest texture; this enhances flavor and creaminess.
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Avoid Over-Churning: Keep an eye on the churning process; over-churning can lead to a grainy texture instead of the smooth consistency you’re aiming for.
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Custom Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavor add-ins like cinnamon or vanilla, or substitute with coconut cream for a vegan Plum Ice Cream that still delights!
Creamy Roasted Plum Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my plums are ripe enough for ice cream?
Absolutely! Choose plums that feel slightly soft when gently pressed and have a sweet aroma. Ripe plums will have a rich color and provide the best flavor once roasted, helping to create that incredible creamy roasted plum ice cream.
What is the best way to store roasted plum ice cream?
For optimal freshness, store your creamy roasted plum ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will maintain its best quality for up to 2 weeks. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften, making it easier to scoop!
Can I freeze roasted plum ice cream for later use?
Of course! To freeze your ice cream, simply transfer it into a freezer-safe airtight container once churned. I recommend placing a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface before sealing to minimize ice crystallization. It should stay fresh for up to 3 months; just be sure to let it soften slightly before enjoying!
What should I do if my ice cream is too hard to scoop?
Very! If your ice cream is rock-hard after being in the freezer, just let it sit out for about 10 minutes to soften up before scooping. You can also run your ice cream scoop under warm water for a few seconds to make the scooping process smoother and easier!
Is this roasted plum ice cream safe for pets or those with allergies?
Generally, it’s best to avoid giving your pets ice cream as dairy can upset their stomach. If allergies are a concern, you might want to adapt this creamy roasted plum ice cream by substituting the whole milk and heavy cream with a nut milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free treat. Always check with your guests about dietary restrictions before serving!
Creamy Roasted Plum Ice Cream That Screams Summer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Slice the ripe plums in half and coat with brown sugar. Place cut-side up in a baking dish and roast for 15-20 minutes.
- Mix the gelatin with 2 tablespoons of water and set aside to soften.
- In a saucepan, combine whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and salt. Heat until sugar dissolves without boiling.
- Once plums are roasted, blend them with their juices into the milk mixture until smooth.
- Pour the softened gelatin into the plum mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until it reaches 40°F (4°C).
- Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions for 20-30 minutes.
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