Indulge in the sweet delight of homemade caramelized peach ice cream! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of peaches with a hint of caramel, creating an unforgettable flavor that's perfect for summer or any time you crave something creamy and delicious.
#### Ingredients
- 4 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
#### Equipment Needed
- Non-stick pan
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ice cream maker (optional but recommended)
- Freezer-safe container for storage
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Peaches**
- Peel and slice 4 ripe peaches into thin rounds.
- Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. **Caramelize the Peaches**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the sliced peaches for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool completely. You can also gently caramelize them on the stovetop by cooking them in a non-stick pan with a little bit of sugar until golden brown.
3. **Prepare the Custard Base**
- In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of whole milk just until warm but not boiling.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks and 1/4 cup sugar until pale and thickened (about 30 seconds).
- Slowly pour the warmed milk and cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while continuously stirring to avoid curdling.
4. **Combine Ingredients**
- Return the mixture to the saucepan over low heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, until it thickens slightly (about 2-3 minutes). Avoid letting it boil.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
5. **Cool Down**
- Let the mixture cool completely to room temperature. You can place it in the refrigerator for about an hour or until it's fully cooled.
6. **Blend and Freeze**
- Once cooled, gently fold in the caramelized peaches.
- If you have an ice cream maker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn the mixture. For a no-churn option, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and let it freeze for about 4 hours or overnight.
7. **Final Touches**
- After churning or freezing, the ice cream should be smooth and creamy.
- Serve immediately for the best texture or store in an airtight container in your freezer until ready to eat.
#### Tips for Perfect Results
- Use ripe but firm peaches for the best flavor.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to help with the blending process.
- For a richer ice cream, add a bit more heavy cream and reduce the milk accordingly.
By following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to create a rich, smooth caramelized peach ice cream that’s sure to impress both yourself and your guests. Enjoy your homemade treat!