Are you looking for a delightful ice cream ball recipe that will impress your friends and family? Look no further! Today, we are excited to share with you a classic and delicious vanilla ice cream ball recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees a mouthwatering outcome.
Vanilla ice cream is a timeless treat that never goes out of style. It’s creamy, smooth, and has a rich, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings. Ice cream balls are a fun and festive way to serve this classic dessert, and they are incredibly easy to make. By following our step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create stunning ice cream balls that are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 5 large egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
- Ice cream maker
- Ice cream balls molds
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)
Now, let’s dive into the recipe:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla bean pod. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to simmer. Once simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit for 10 minutes to steep.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and salt together until well combined. Gradually pour a small amount of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Once the eggs are tempered, pour the entire mixture back into the saucepan.
3. Return the saucepan to the stove over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Be careful not to let it boil, as this will scramble the eggs.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Cover the surface of the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to chill completely.
5. Once the mixture is chilled, churn it in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
6. When you’re ready to assemble the ice cream balls, scoop the vanilla ice cream into the molds, leaving a small space at the top for the toppings. Place the molds in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
7. Once the ice cream balls are firm, remove them from the molds and dip them into a bowl of melted chocolate, if desired. You can also sprinkle them with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for an extra touch of elegance.
8. Top the ice cream balls with a generous dollop of whipped cream and serve immediately. These ice cream balls are perfect for any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a fancy dinner party.
Enjoy your homemade ice cream balls, and remember that this recipe can be easily adapted to include your favorite flavors and toppings. Happy scooping!
