Description
Mexican ice cream is rich, creamy, and often infused with bold flavors like cinnamon, vanilla, and a hint of spice. This homemade version delivers a smooth texture with a balance of sweetness and warmth, perfect for a refreshing yet unique treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 4 egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Heat the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, sugar, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), and a pinch of salt. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves (do not boil).
- Temper the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the warm milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
- Cook the Custard: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes).
- Chill the Mixture: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for best results.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-25 minutes).
Notes
- For an extra Mexican touch, mix in crushed Mexican chocolate (like Abuelita) or top with a drizzle of dulce de leche.
- No ice cream maker? Pour the mixture into a shallow pan, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes until creamy.
- Want a boozy version? Add 1-2 tablespoons of Kahlúa or tequila for an adult twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Mexican ice cream, cinnamon ice cream, spicy ice cream, homemade ice cream, Mexican dessert