Smoky Mesquite BBQ Ice Cream

Smoky Mesquite BBQ Ice Cream

Indulge in a groundbreaking frozen dessert that challenges expectations with this Smoky Mesquite BBQ Ice Cream. This unique creation marries the savory depth of slow-smoked barbecue with a luxuriously creamy, sweet ice cream base, delivering an unforgettable experience ideal for the adventurous palate. The foundation is a rich custard, subtly infused with the distinct smokiness of mesquite, setting a bold stage for the vibrant additions. Swirls of tangy barbecue sauce, carefully balanced with the mellow sweetness of brown sugar and a whisper of spice, weave through the ice cream, creating a complex and harmonious profile. Each spoonful is an exciting interplay of sweet, smoky, savory, and tangy notes, evoking the nostalgic warmth of summer cookouts. This ice cream transforms the traditional frozen dessert into a culinary conversation starter, proving that imaginative flavor combinations can redefine dessert. It fits perfectly within the 'Ice Cream & Frozen Desserts' category as it offers a novel yet undeniably frozen treat experience, pushing boundaries while maintaining the beloved creamy texture.

Preparation time
30 min
Cooking time
20 min
Total time
5 hrs 50 min
Servings
6

Instructions

Custard Preparation

  1. 1Combine heavy cream and whole milk in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat until just simmering, watching carefully to prevent boiling. Remove from heat.
  2. 2In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, smoked paprika, and salt until light and creamy.
  3. 3Slowly temper the egg mixture by gradually whisking about half of the hot cream mixture into the egg mixture. This prevents the eggs from scrambling.
  4. 4Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Return to low heat.
  5. 5Cook, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spatula (about 175°F/80°C). Do not boil.
  6. 6Remove from heat and stir in the liquid smoke (mesquite). Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any solids or scrambled egg bits.

Chilling and Churning

  1. 1Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until thoroughly cold.
  2. 2Once cold, pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
  3. 3During the last 5 minutes of churning, slowly drizzle in the thick barbecue sauce. Allow it to swirl and incorporate partially, creating ribbons of flavor.
  4. 4Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container. Freeze for another 2-4 hours to allow it to firm up to a scoopable consistency before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories
350 kcal
Protein
5 g
Fat
22 g
Carbs
30 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories350 kcal
Protein5 g
Fat22 g
Carbs30 g

Tips

  • Choose a barbecue sauce that is thick and rich, not too watery, to ensure it incorporates well without making the ice cream icy.
  • When tempering the egg yolks, add the hot cream slowly and whisk continuously to avoid curdling. Constant stirring when cooking the custard is key.
  • Serve this unique ice cream alongside cornbread or as a surprising dessert after grilled meats for an adventurous culinary experience.

By Chef Michael Ilin