There’s something truly special about the first spoonful of ice cream on a warm summer evening. As you dig into this decadent “Old Goat” Ice Cream, the luscious creaminess mingles with the tangy notes of goat cheese and the sweet depth of honey. This innovative dessert is a delightful fusion of flavors you might never have expected to find in ice cream!
I discovered this unique recipe while exploring the local farmers’ market, dazzled by the fresh produce and artisanal goods. The idea to use goat cheese as a base sparked my culinary curiosity. With rich textures and vibrant mix-ins like raspberry jam and zesty lemon curd, this frozen treat can impress guests or serve as a self-pampering indulgence after a long day.
What I adore most is how easily this gourmet ice cream fits into any occasion, turning simple gatherings into something memorable. Trust me, once you serve this at your next get-together, it will become a go-to recipe that you’ll want to make all year round!
Why is Old Goat Ice Cream so special?
Unique flavors: Combining goat cheese, honey, and vibrant mix-ins, this ice cream redefines indulgence. Effortless preparation: Perfect for home chefs, it requires minimal ingredients and equipment. Versatility shines: Pair with fresh berries or serve with cookies for a stunning dessert spread. Crowd-pleaser: Impress your guests with a gourmet delight that stands out. Affordable luxury: Enjoy an upscale treat without breaking the bank. Dive into the delightful world of gourmet desserts with this hidden gem!
Old Goat Ice Cream Ingredients
• Get ready to create a unique dessert!
For the Ice Cream Base
- Heavy Cream – Essential for a rich and creamy texture; for a lighter option, you can use whole milk.
- Milk – Adds smoothness to the ice cream; try almond milk for a dairy-free twist.
- Honey – Sweetens the mixture while enhancing the tang of goat cheese; maple syrup can serve as a vegan alternative.
- Goat Cheese – The star of this indulgent recipe, providing a creamy base with a distinct flavor; substitute with cream cheese if needed.
For the Mix-Ins
- Raspberry or Blackberry Jam – Offers delightful swirls of flavor; feel free to use any berry jam or preserves you prefer.
- Lemon Curd – Adds a fresh, tangy taste to the dessert; lime curd can be a zesty alternative.
- Toasted Almonds – Provides a crunch and nutty flavor; swap for pecans or walnuts for a different texture.
- Rosemary – Infuses an aromatic, herbal note; thyme can be a lovely substitute for variety.
With these ingredients, preparing your Old Goat Ice Cream will be a joyous and sensational experience!
How to Make Old Goat Ice Cream
-
Combine Ingredients:
In a small saucepan, mix heavy cream, milk, and honey over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Whisk in the goat cheese until completely smooth and melted. -
Freeze the Base:
Pour the creamy mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container and freeze for at least 24 hours. This step is crucial for getting that perfect ice cream texture! -
Process the Ice Cream:
After the freezing time, let the container sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes for easy scooping. Secure it into the Ninja Creami, select the “Ice Cream” setting, and process until you achieve a wonderfully smooth consistency. -
Add the Mix-Ins:
Create a 1-inch wide hole in the center of the ice cream using a spoon. Add generous dollops of raspberry jam and lemon curd, along with a sprinkle of toasted almonds and rosemary for that gourmet touch. -
Re-spin for Perfection:
Return the mixture to the Ninja Creami and choose the “Re-spin” setting to mix all the wonderful flavors. If you prefer firmer ice cream, place it back in the freezer for 1-2 hours before serving.
Optional: Serve with extra toasted almonds and a drizzle of honey for an indulgent finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Old Goat Ice Cream flavors are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time and enjoy indulgent desserts! You can prepare the ice cream base up to 48 hours in advance by whisking together the heavy cream, milk, and honey, then mixing in the goat cheese until smooth. Store the mixture in your Ninja Creami pint container and freeze it. For the mix-ins, you can pre-measure the raspberry jam, lemon curd, toasted almonds, and rosemary to streamline your serving process. When you’re ready to serve, simply process the frozen base and add the mix-ins, giving it a quick “Re-spin.” This way, you can impress your guests with minimal effort while enjoying the same luxurious taste!
What to Serve with Old Goat Ice Cream?
This delightful dessert deserves the perfect companions to create a memorable meal.
-
Shortbread Cookies: Their buttery crunch balances the creamy tang of the ice cream, making every bite a blissful experience. Dunk them in your bowl for an indulgent twist!
-
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy raspberries or blackberries enhance the flavors while adding a refreshing burst that complements the sweetness of the ice cream.
-
Caramel Sauce: A rich drizzle brings a sweet contrast to the tart notes of goat cheese and honey, creating a luxurious treat that feels like dessert magic.
-
Chocolate Shavings: Dark chocolate will elevate the flavor profile with its bittersweet touch, bringing sophistication and a hint of decadence to your ice cream experience.
-
Crushed Nuts: Toasted almonds or pecans add an irresistible crunch and enhance the nutty notes of the ice cream, making it a textural delight.
-
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint not only adds beautiful color but also a refreshing fragrance that enhances the overall flavor, creating a sophisticated palate.
-
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly pairs wonderfully with the rich creaminess, adding a festive touch to this indulgent dessert!
By thoughtfully selecting these pairings, you transform your Old Goat Ice Cream into an extraordinary culinary celebration. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Old Goat Ice Cream
-
Whisk Well: Make sure to whisk the goat cheese thoroughly until it completely melts. This ensures a silky texture in your Old Goat Ice Cream.
-
Chill Time Matters: Allow the cream mix to freeze for a full 24 hours for the best consistency. Rushing this step can yield a grainy texture.
-
Mix-In Technique: When adding mix-ins, create a hole in the center for even distribution. This keeps the flavors balanced throughout your Old Goat Ice Cream.
-
Glycerin Magic: Consider adding a teaspoon of food-grade glycerin. This trick helps maintain the scoopability of leftover ice cream.
-
Storage Solutions: Store in an airtight container and always let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping if frozen solid.
How to Store and Freeze Old Goat Ice Cream
-
Fridge: Keep your ice cream in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if you plan to enjoy it quickly. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
-
Freezer: Store your Old Goat Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. Always seal it well to prevent ice crystals and maintain that delightful creamy texture.
-
Scoopability: If your ice cream becomes too hard after storage, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping. This will make serving much easier!
-
Refreezing: If you’ve mixed in extras or enjoyed a bowl, remember to refreeze any leftovers promptly for the best flavor and texture.
Old Goat Ice Cream Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this ice cream to suit your taste buds!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk for a luscious dairy-free delight. The coconut adds an exotic twist that compliments the flavors beautifully.
-
Vegan Sweetener: Swap honey for agave syrup or maple syrup to ensure every scoop remains vegan-friendly. The maple syrup infuses a lovely caramel essence throughout the ice cream.
-
Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with ricotta for a milder flavor or a cream cheese blend if goat cheese isn’t available. This swap keeps the creaminess while altering the taste.
-
Flavor Infusion: Add a splash of vanilla extract or bourbon to enhance the sweetness. The rich and warming notes take your ice cream to the next level of indulgence.
-
Berry Bonanza: Instead of raspberry jam, opt for a mix of blackberry and blueberry jams. The varied berry flavors create a delightful symphony of tastes in every delicious scoop.
-
Nutty Crunch: Replace toasted almonds with crushed pistachios or roasted hazelnuts for a unique crunch. Each nut brings a different texture and flavor profile to your indulgent treat.
-
Citrus Zing: Substitute lemon curd with a dollop of orange or grapefruit curd for a zesty refresh. The bright citrus notes will dance on your palate and elevate the overall dessert experience.
-
Heat Element: Add a hint of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the mix for an unexpected kick. This fiery addition pairs surprisingly well with the sweet and tangy base, leaving your taste buds tingling!
Old Goat Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of goat cheese should I use?
Absolutely! The best goat cheese for your Old Goat Ice Cream is a soft, creamy variety, as it blends effortlessly into the ice cream base. Look for fresh, high-quality goat cheese often found at farmers’ markets or specialty cheese shops. If you can’t find goat cheese, cream cheese or mascarpone can work as delightful substitutes, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
How should I store Old Goat Ice Cream after making it?
After you’ve made your Old Goat Ice Cream, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep fresh for up to one week. To enjoy it at its best, cover the surface of the ice cream with plastic wrap before sealing the container. If it becomes too hard, let it sit out at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping.
Can I freeze Old Goat Ice Cream for longer?
Yes, you can! While I recommend consuming your luscious Old Goat Ice Cream within a week for the best quality, it can last in the freezer for up to one month if stored properly in an airtight container. Just make sure to give it some time to soften at room temperature before serving.
What if my ice cream turns out too soft?
If your Old Goat Ice Cream is too soft after processing, don’t worry! Simply transfer it back to the freezer and let it firm up for 1-2 hours. For future batches, ensure that the goat cheese is thoroughly melted into the cream mixture during cooking, and also check that the ice cream base was adequately frozen for 24 hours before processing.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Definitely! If you’re serving this delightful dessert to friends or family with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that goat cheese contains dairy. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with your favorite non-dairy alternatives such as coconut cream and almond milk. Additionally, opt for maple syrup instead of honey to make it vegan-friendly. Always check label ingredients to avoid allergens for your guests!
Old Goat Ice Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, mix heavy cream, milk, and honey over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Whisk in the goat cheese until completely smooth and melted.
- Pour the creamy mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container and freeze for at least 24 hours.
- After freezing, let the container sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes for easy scooping. Process in the Ninja Creami until smooth.
- Create a 1-inch hole in the center of the ice cream, adding dollops of raspberry jam and lemon curd, and sprinkle with toasted almonds and rosemary.
- Return to the Ninja Creami and choose the 'Re-spin' setting. For firmer ice cream, freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.