Pear and Gorgonzola Ice Cream is a luxurious frozen dessert that merges the sweet juiciness of pears with the sharp and creamy notes of Gorgonzola cheese. The contrast of flavours creates a balanced, rich, and creamy treat that is perfect for cheese lovers and those who enjoy unique, artisanal desserts.
Pear and Gorgonzola Ice Cream is a sophisticated and uniquely flavourful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the bold, tangy creaminess of Gorgonzola cheese. This decadent frozen treat is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of France and Italy, where cheese and fruit pairings are highly regarded. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make Pear and Gorgonzola Ice Cream (France/Italy) at home, blending gourmet flavours for an indulgent experience.
Ingredients Needed
To make homemade Pear and Gorgonzola Ice Cream, you’ll need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar or honey
- 2 ripe pears (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (for topping, optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pear and Gorgonzola Ice Cream
1. Prepare the Pears
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced pears, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 10 minutes until the pears soften and release their juices. Blend until smooth and let cool.
2. Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In another saucepan, combine heavy cream and whole milk. Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
3. Temper the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add the warm cream mixture while whisking continuously. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until it thickens into a custard-like consistency.
4. Incorporate the Gorgonzola and Pear Puree
Stir in the Gorgonzola cheese until melted, followed by the pear puree and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and allow the mixture to cool completely.
5. Freeze the Ice Cream
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a container, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once frozen, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. Garnish with toasted walnuts or pecans for added texture and crunch.
Tips for Best Results
- Use ripe pears: Their natural sweetness balances the bold Gorgonzola flavor.
- Let the mixture cool before churning: This enhances the smoothness and texture.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding honey, candied walnuts, or balsamic reduction for extra depth.
Now that you know how to make Pear and Gorgonzola Ice Cream (France/Italy) at home, why not give this elegant and flavourful dessert a try? Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savoury in a creamy, gourmet frozen delight!
