Licorice Ice Cream is a traditional Scandinavian frozen dessert made with black licorice or licorice powder, often combined with a hint of salt to enhance its bold flavour. This ice cream is a favourite among licorice lovers and those who enjoy complex and unconventional sweet treats.
Licorice Ice Cream is a distinctive and flavourful dessert that captures the essence of Scandinavian cuisine. Popular in countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, this ice cream blends the rich, slightly salty, and sweet taste of licorice with a creamy frozen base. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make Licorice Ice Cream (Scandinavia) at home, using authentic ingredients to create a one-of-a-kind frozen delight.
Ingredients Needed
To make homemade Licorice Ice Cream, you’ll need:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 2 tbsp licorice powder or crushed black licorice
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (optional, for a salty licorice version)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate or licorice pieces (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Licorice Ice Cream
1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
2. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and creamy.
3. Temper the Egg Yolks
Slowly add a ladle of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously. Gradually add the rest of the milk mixture, whisking constantly.
4. Cook the Custard
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
5. Add Licorice and Vanilla
Remove from heat and stir in the licorice powder (or crushed licorice), vanilla extract, and sea salt (if using). Mix until well combined and allow the mixture to cool completely.
6. 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.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once frozen, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. Garnish with chopped dark chocolate or licorice pieces for added texture and flavour.
Tips for Best Results
- Use high-quality licorice powder: This ensures a deep, rich flavour.
- Balance sweetness and saltiness: Scandinavian licorice often has a salty note, so adjust salt levels to taste.
- Let the custard cool completely before churning: This helps achieve a smoother ice cream texture.
Now that you know how to make Licorice Ice Cream (Scandinavia) at home, why not give this bold and unique frozen treat a try? Experience the rich, creamy flavours of licorice in every spoonful!
