There’s a certain magic that happens when strawberries are roasted; it’s as if the sun itself has turned them into gems of sweetness. With summer knocking on our doors, I can’t think of a better way to embrace the season than with my Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream. This delightful creation merges the rich, caramelized notes of roasted strawberries with the bright zing of lime and the unexpected twist of fragrant basil. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser perfect for summer gatherings, but it’s also a quick, homemade indulgence that can bring a smile on a cozy night in. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive in and discover how to make this refreshing treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Why is This Ice Cream So Irresistible?
Refreshing, Unique Flavor: This Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream delivers a perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and herbal notes, making each spoonful a delightful experience.
Simplicity: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can master this homemade dessert in no time!
Eye-Catching Presentation: Its vibrant pink hue and fresh basil garnish create an impressive dish that’s sure to wow your guests.
Versatile: Feel free to mix it up! Swap lime for lemon or try fresh mint instead of basil for a creative twist.
Perfect for Summer: Ideal for those warm days, this ice cream is a refreshing treat to complement backyard gatherings or a cozy movie night at home. Pair it with a warm shortcake or buttery biscuits for an unforgettable dessert experience. Enjoy a scoop of homemade goodness that easily outshines store-bought options!
Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to making this indulgent homemade ice cream treat!
For the Roasted Strawberries
• Strawberries – Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor and best texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Sprinkle this to enhance the natural sweetness and caramelization during roasting.
• Lime Zest – Adds a bright, zesty flavor to lift the strawberries’ sweetness; fresh zest is recommended.
For the Ice Cream Base
• Heavy Cream – This ingredient creates a rich and creamy texture; substitute coconut cream for a lighter option.
• Milk – Combines with the cream for a smooth base; whole milk is best, while almond milk changes the texture slightly.
• Egg Yolks – Essential for a custard-like consistency; be sure to temper slowly to prevent curdling.
• Lime Juice – Boosts the freshness and adds needed acidity to balance the sweetness; fresh juice is ideal.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the ice cream’s depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the most authentic taste.
• Basil Leaves – Infuses a delightful herbal note to the ice cream; mint can be used as an alternative for a different twist.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will create a perfect surface for roasting the strawberries, which will caramelize beautifully, enhancing their sweetness for the Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash and hull your fresh strawberries, arranging them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle a generous amount of granulated sugar and lime zest over them, which will accentuate their natural flavors. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the strawberries are soft and juicy, with a slight caramelization forming.
Step 3: Puree the Strawberries
Once your strawberries have cooled slightly after roasting, transfer them to a mixing bowl. Use a fork or a blender to puree or mash them to your desired consistency—smooth or chunkier, depending on your preference for the Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream. Set aside the luscious strawberry puree to cool completely.
Step 4: Heat the Cream and Milk
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and half of the granulated sugar. Place over medium heat and gently stir, warming the mixture until it begins to steam but does not boil. Keep an eye on it as you prepare the egg yolks, ensuring the cream stays just shy of boiling to preserve its rich texture.
Step 5: Whisk the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining sugar until the mixture lightens in color and becomes slightly frothy. This process helps to create a custard-like base for your ice cream. Gradually incorporate a small amount of the warm cream mixture into the yolks—this ‘tempering’ step helps prevent curdling.
Step 6: Cook the Custard Base
Return the tempered egg yolk mixture back to the saucepan with the remaining warm cream. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, as it can curdle the eggs and ruin your ice cream base.
Step 7: Infuse with Basil
Once thickened, remove the custard from the heat and add in the fresh basil leaves. Let the mixture steep for 15 minutes to infuse its delightful herby flavor into your custard, enhancing the overall profile of the Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream. After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the basil leaves.
Step 8: Combine Flavors
To the strained custard, blend in the prepared strawberry puree, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the combination is uniform, ensuring that every bite of ice cream will bring together the sweet roasted strawberries and zesty lime basil.
Step 9: Chill the Mixture
Transfer the combined mixture to a refrigerator-safe bowl and allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if time allows. This chilling step is crucial for achieving the creamy texture of your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream once it’s churned.
Step 10: Churn the Ice Cream
After chilling, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll notice it will start to thicken and take on a creamy consistency. It should have a soft-serve texture when the churning is complete.
Step 11: Freeze the Ice Cream
Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the surface directly with parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals, then freeze for at least 4 hours—this final freeze will ensure that your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream reaches the perfect scoopable texture.
Storage Tips for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream
Fridge: Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container for up to 2 days for optimal flavor. Freeze nobilities might occur if left too long!
Freezer: Keep the Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Cover the surface with parchment paper or plastic wrap to maintain texture and prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: If the ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping. This will help restore its creamy consistency.
Serving: For the best presentation, serve the ice cream with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of strawberry syrup. Enjoy every scoop while it’s at its freshest!
Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Variations
Invite your creativity to shine as you explore scrumptious twists for this delightful ice cream!
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Lemon Zest: Swap lime for lemon for a refreshing citrus kick. This change brings a bright, zesty flavor that’s just as vibrant. The subtle shift complements roasted strawberries beautifully, creating a new favorite!
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Mint Twist: Use fresh mint instead of basil for a cooling herbal note. Mint elevates the ice cream with its refreshing aroma, giving it a delightful garden-fresh taste.
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Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream. This swap introduces a tropical flair while maintaining the creaminess that’s essential for ice cream.
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate toasted almond slivers or crushed pistachios to add a delightful crunch. The contrast between the smooth ice cream and textured nuts will keep your taste buds excited.
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Chocolatey Indulgence: Add dark chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent touch. The rich chocolate contrasts the sweet strawberries, creating a luxurious balance between flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Infuse a hint of crushed red pepper flakes into the strawberry mixture for a unique twist. Just a pinch can add surprising warmth, elevating your ice cream to a whole new level!
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle homemade caramel or store-bought sauce throughout the ice cream before freezing. Each scoop will bring delightful pockets of sweetness that perfectly harmonize with the roasted strawberries.
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Berry Medley: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a colorful twist. This variability enhances the flavor profile while adding a beautiful visual appeal reminiscent of a summery garden.
Don’t forget to check out the pairing possibilities with warm shortcakes or buttery biscuits for a truly indulgent dessert experience! Your homemade Roasted Poblano Soup adds comfort on a cozy evening, while the savory notes of the Crispy Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu will delight everyone at the table. Enjoy the endless possibilities with your ice cream adventure!
Expert Tips for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your strawberries and basil are fresh to maximize flavor. Overripe strawberries can lead to a mushy texture in the ice cream.
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Strain Well: After steeping the basil in the custard, strain carefully to avoid any chunks. A smooth mixture is key for a luxurious Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream.
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Chill Thoroughly: Don’t rush the chilling time! Give your mixture at least 4 hours in the fridge for the best texture after churning.
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Control the Heat: When cooking the custard, keep the heat low and stir constantly. This prevents the egg yolks from curdling, which is crucial for a smooth finish.
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Cover to Freeze: To avoid icy textures, lay plastic wrap or parchment paper directly on the ice cream’s surface before covering. This keeps ice crystals at bay while freezing.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream creations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the strawberries up to 24 hours in advance; simply let them cool, then store the puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ice cream base can also be prepared a day ahead by chilling the mixture overnight. To maintain quality, ensure you cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals during freezing. When ready to enjoy, simply churn the prepared mixture in your ice cream maker and freeze it for another 4 hours to achieve that creamy texture we all love. This way, you’ll be serving homemade ice cream with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream
There’s nothing quite like a homemade dessert that captures the essence of summer and invites joyful gatherings around the table.
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Warm Shortcakes: The buttery, flaky texture of shortcakes pairs beautifully with the creamy ice cream, creating a delightful mix of warm and cold. Each bite becomes an indulgent treat that balances sweetness with a touch of tartness from the strawberries.
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Buttery Biscuits: Light and airy biscuits provide a perfect vessel for scooping up the ice cream. Their subtle richness complements the bright flavors of the lime basil ice cream, making for a comforting dessert experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits will enhance the natural sweetness of the roasted strawberries in the ice cream. The vibrant colors and textures not only look stunning but also add a healthful element to your dessert.
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Chocolate Drizzle: An opt-in for decadence! A warm chocolate drizzle over the ice cream can transform your treat into a delightful indulgence. The luscious chocolate enhances the flavors beautifully, striking a balance between sweet and herbaceous.
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Mint Spritzer: For a refreshing non-alcoholic drink option, whip up a mint spritzer with sparkling water and a hint of lime. Its effervescence cleanses the palate and complements the freshness of the ice cream beautifully.
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Lemonade: A classic homemade lemonade offers the right amount of tartness to match the zesty flavors of the lime basil ice cream. Its refreshing qualities are perfect for hot summer days, making it an ideal pairing.
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Ginger Cookies: The spicy kick of ginger cookies brings an unexpected twist to the rich ice cream. Their crunchy texture and warming flavor create a lovely contrast to the cold, lush indulgence of the dessert.
Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the ideal flavor and texture in your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. They should be fragrant, firm, and free from dark spots. Overripe or mushy strawberries can result in a less desirable texture in your final ice cream.
How should I store leftovers, and how long will it last?
I recommend storing your leftover Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream in an airtight container. It will maintain its best flavor for up to 2 weeks in the freezer. To prevent ice crystals from forming, cover the surface of the ice cream with parchment paper or plastic wrap directly before sealing the container. This simple step will help keep your creamy treat smooth and delicious.
Can I freeze the ice cream for longer durations?
Sure thing! While I suggest consuming your ice cream within 2 weeks for optimal freshness, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. If you do decide to keep it longer, make sure it’s well-wrapped in an airtight container and that the surface is covered to minimize exposure to air.
What should I do if my ice cream seems too icy or hard after freezing?
No worries! If your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream becomes too hard, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping. This will allow it to soften and return to that creamy texture that makes it so delightful. Always check the freezer temperature; if it’s too low, the ice cream can harden excessively.
Is this ice cream safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! This recipe contains dairy and eggs, but there are several easy adjustments for different dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk respectively. Make sure to use egg substitutes like flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer if you’re avoiding eggs as well. Always check for allergies and consult an ingredient list if sharing!
Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Of course! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Every 30-45 minutes, stir vigorously with a fork to break up any ice crystals as it freezes. Repeat this process until the desired creamy texture is achieved, usually taking around 4-5 hours. It’s not strictly traditional, but it works wonders!
Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and hull the strawberries, place them on the baking sheet, then sprinkle with sugar and lime zest.
- Roast the strawberries for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through until soft and juicy.
- Let the roasted strawberries cool slightly, then puree or mash them to desired consistency.
- Combine heavy cream, whole milk, and half of the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming.
- Whisk together egg yolks and remaining sugar until frothy, then temper with a small amount of warm cream.
- Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat, add basil leaves, and steep for 15 minutes before straining.
- Blend in the strawberry puree, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until uniform.
- Chill the mixture in a refrigerator-safe bowl for at least 4 hours.
- Churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker for 20-25 minutes.
- Transfer to an airtight container, cover, and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
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