As the warmth of summer beckons, there’s something irresistibly enchanting about crafting your own frozen treats. I discovered this delightful no-churn Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream one weekend while searching for a refreshing dessert to cool off with. The vibrant purple hues and the sweet, tangy burst of blackberries paired with delicate lavender notes captured my interest instantly.
Not only does this creamy concoction satisfy your sweet tooth, but it also offers a touch of luxury that’s perfect for warm gatherings or simply indulging after a long day. With no special equipment required, this easy-to-make treat is ideal for anyone a little bored with fast food desserts or just looking to elevate their home cooking game.
Join me on this journey to freeze summer in a scoop, where floral sweetness meets berry bliss!
Why is Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream a must-try?
Unique Flavors: The blend of tart blackberries and fragrant lavender creates a delicate harmony, making each scoop truly special.
No-Churn Magic: Forget about ice cream machines—this recipe is effortlessly created with simple ingredients, perfect for anyone!
Refreshing Dessert: Ideal for hot summer days, this indulgent treat cools you down while offering a gourmet experience.
Versatile Options: Experiment with different berries or herbs to craft your own signature version; endless possibilities await!
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends alike with this elegant dessert that’s sure to be the star of your next gathering!
Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base
- Heavy Cream – Provides the creamy base; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds sweetness and richness; you can use condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Fresh Blackberries (or Frozen) – Contributes tartness and vibrant color; frozen blackberries work well for convenience.
- Dried Lavender Flowers (Culinary Grade) – Infuses a lovely floral flavor; always use culinary-grade lavender to ensure it’s safe for consumption.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and depth of flavor; can be omitted for a purer berry and lavender taste.
- Honey or Maple Syrup (optional) – Adds additional sweetness, adjustable based on your taste preference.
- Pinch of Salt – Balances the flavors, with sea salt providing an extra touch of flavor.
By capturing the essence of Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream, you’re not only indulging in a delicious dessert but also embracing a culinary adventure perfect for warm weather!
How to Make Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream
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Heat Cream: Start by heating ½ cup of heavy cream in a saucepan with the dried lavender flowers. Allow it to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until fragrant, then strain the mixture and let it cool completely.
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Puree Blackberries: While the cream cools, puree your fresh or frozen blackberries in a blender or food processor. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the puree to remove the seeds.
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Combine Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk together with honey (if desired), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and well combined.
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Mix Cream and Puree: Gently stir the lavender-infused cream and blackberry puree into the sweetened condensed milk mixture until everything is evenly combined and the color is a lovely purple hue.
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Whip Remaining Cream: In another bowl, whip the remaining heavy cream to stiff peaks. This will create a light and airy texture in your ice cream. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the blackberry mixture until no streaks remain.
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Freeze: Transfer your ice cream base to a suitable container. Cover it securely and place it in the freezer for 4-6 hours, or until it’s firm and scoopable.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the ice cream is firm, scoop it out into bowls or cones and enjoy this delightful homemade treat.
Optional: Serve with fresh blackberries on top for extra flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These no-churn Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the blackberry puree and lavender-infused cream up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cool the infused cream and refrigerate it, along with the blackberry puree, in separate airtight containers. This will preserve their fresh flavors and vibrant colors. When you’re ready to finish your ice cream, mix the prepared blackberry puree into the sweetened condensed milk mixture and fold in the whipped cream as per the recipe instructions. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to scoop and enjoy with minimal fuss on busy days!
What to Serve with Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream?
Experience the bliss of summer with delightful pairings that complement each scoop of creamy goodness.
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Fresh Berries: Top with additional blackberries for a burst of juicy flavor and a beautiful contrast in color. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the ice cream perfectly.
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Shortbread Cookies: A buttery shortbread provides a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture. They make for a nostalgic pairing reminiscent of afternoon teas.
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Lemon Tart: The zesty flavor of lemon tart brightens the floral notes of lavender, creating a refreshing combination that tantalizes the palate with each bite.
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Minted Watermelon Salad: This light, refreshing salad adds a burst of color and flavor that complements the creamy sweetness of the ice cream. It’s an invigorating option for hot days.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of fizzy lemonade enhances the experience, refreshing your palate between scoops and mirroring the ice cream’s delicate flavors.
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Dark Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm dark chocolate sauce over the ice cream adds a rich and decadent element that tantalizes the senses, making it feel extra indulgent.
Indulge in these exquisite pairings, and elevate your dessert experience to new heights!
Storage Tips for Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream
- Freezer: Store your Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. This ensures it stays fresh and maintains its creamy texture.
- Wrapping: For best results, press a piece of plastic wrap directly against the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. This helps prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: If your ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving.
- Serving Freshness: To enjoy the best flavor, consume within a week, though it can last up to two weeks without significant loss of taste.
Tips for the Best Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream
- Culinary-Grade Lavender: Use only culinary-grade lavender to ensure safety and flavor. Regular lavender can be harmful and should be avoided.
- Prevent Curdling: Be cautious not to overheat the cream when infusing; a gentle simmer is key to a smooth base for your blackberry lavender ice cream.
- Taste as You Go: Infuse lavender for a shorter time initially. You can always steep longer for more flavor, but avoid bitterness by checking the taste.
- Stiff Peaks: Whip the cream to stiff peaks for the best texture. This step is crucial for creating that airy, creamy goodness in the final product.
- Storage Mindset: Store the ice cream in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and prevent freezer burn for up to two weeks.
- Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try different berries or herbs to add your twist to this no-churn blackberry lavender ice cream.
Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream Variations
Feel free to let your creative side shine with these delightful tweaks to the recipe!
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Berry Swap: Try using raspberries or blueberries instead of blackberries for a different fruity twist that still boasts beautiful color.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with rosemary or mint infused into the cream for a fresh, herbaceous note that elevates the flavor profile.
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Coconut Bliss: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a lush, dairy-free version that adds a tropical vibe to your dessert. It’s luscious and satisfying!
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Zesty Kick: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to the cream to give the ice cream a bright citrusy edge that complements the floral notes beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Incorporate melted dark chocolate swirls into the final mixture before freezing for a rich, decadent upgrade that pairs surprisingly well with berry flavors.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed almonds or hazelnuts before freezing for a delightful texture contrast, adding a crunchy surprise with each scoop.
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Sweetener Swap: Replace honey with agave syrup or a sugar alternative to suit your dietary preferences while maintaining sweetness and flavor balance.
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Chill with Spice: For a hint of warmth, add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture; this subtle spice enhances the overall experience of your ice cream.
Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe blackberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting blackberries, look for ones that are plump, shiny, and deep purple in color. Avoid berries that have dark spots or are overly soft, as these can indicate overripeness. Fresh blackberries should also have a sweet aroma—this is a good sign of flavor!
What is the best way to store Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream?
To keep your ice cream fresh, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. For extra protection against freezer burn, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the ice cream’s surface before sealing the container. This will help maintain that creamy texture!
Can I freeze Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream longer than 2 weeks?
While the ice cream can technically last for up to 2 months in the freezer, I recommend consuming it within 2 weeks for the best flavor and texture. If you do freeze it longer, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving, as it may harden significantly.
What should I do if my ice cream is too hard to scoop?
No worries! If your Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream is too hard, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes. This waiting time will soften it enough for easy scooping, allowing you to enjoy your delicious creation without any hassle!
Does this recipe contain any common allergens?
Yes, this recipe does contain dairy due to the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk. If you have a dairy allergy, you can substitute with coconut cream and condensed coconut milk. Always check labels for allergy information, especially with sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, as they may vary in allergen content.
Can I use different berries or herbs in this recipe?
Very! This recipe is quite versatile. You can easily substitute blackberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, adjusting the sweetness as needed. Additionally, feel free to experiment with herbs such as mint or basil to create your unique flavor combination. Enjoy the creative process!
Delicious No-Churn Blackberry Lavender Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating ½ cup of heavy cream in a saucepan with the dried lavender flowers. Allow it to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until fragrant, then strain the mixture and let it cool completely.
- While the cream cools, puree your fresh or frozen blackberries in a blender or food processor. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the puree to remove the seeds.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk together with honey (if desired), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Gently stir the lavender-infused cream and blackberry puree into the sweetened condensed milk mixture until everything is evenly combined.
- In another bowl, whip the remaining heavy cream to stiff peaks. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the blackberry mixture until no streaks remain.
- Transfer your ice cream base to a suitable container, cover it securely and place it in the freezer for 4-6 hours, or until it’s firm and scoopable.
- Once firm, scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy.