Caramel Macchiato Ice Cream is a delectable frozen treat that combines the irresistible flavors of caramel and coffee. This creamy dessert features a smooth and velvety ice cream base infused with a rich caramel swirl and a hint of robust espresso. The caramel provides a luscious sweetness that perfectly complements the bold coffee undertones, creating a harmonious flavor profile. With each spoonful, you'll experience a delightful balance of creamy, sweet caramel and the invigorating kick of coffee. Caramel Macchiato Ice Cream is a true indulgence that satisfies both coffee and dessert lovers alike, making it a delightful choice for a refreshing and decadent treat.
Here's a step-by-step recipe for making Caramel Macchiato Ice Cream:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee or espresso powder
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and egg yolks until well combined.
- Slowly pour the hot cream and milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously. This helps temper the eggs and prevents them from curdling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and place it over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the instant coffee or espresso powder, caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps or cooked egg bits.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface of the mixture to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container, drizzling additional caramel sauce over each layer as you go. Swirl the caramel gently with a knife or spatula to create a marbled effect.
- Place the container in the freezer and let the ice cream firm up for at least 4 hours or until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve the Caramel Macchiato Ice Cream in bowls or cones and enjoy its creamy, coffee-infused deliciousness!
Note: If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, remove the dish from the freezer and vigorously stir the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals. Repeat this process for about 3-4 hours until the ice cream reaches the desired texture.