Description
This Dulce de Leche Ice Cream recipe creates a rich and creamy dessert with the irresistible caramel flavor of dulce de leche. Made with heavy cream, whole milk, and sweetened with smooth dulce de leche, this ice cream is perfect for those craving a decadent treat with a luscious caramel swirl. Churned in an ice cream maker and frozen to perfection, it makes for a delightful dessert that's easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 (13.4 oz) can dulce de leche (store bought or homemade)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For Swirling
- About ¼ cup extra dulce de leche (or to taste)
Instructions
- Heat Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, dulce de leche, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until the dulce de leche is fully melted and incorporated into the cream and milk, resulting in a smooth mixture. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Chill the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the warm ice cream base into a large bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least six hours, preferably overnight, to thoroughly chill and allow the flavors to meld.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Once properly chilled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for about 20-25 minutes, until the mixture reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Layer and Swirl: Transfer half of the churned ice cream into a loaf pan or ice cream container. Spoon a few dollops of extra dulce de leche over this layer and use a spatula or knife to gently swirl it throughout. Add the remaining ice cream on top and repeat the swirling with more dulce de leche. Cover the container.
- Freeze Until Firm: Place the ice cream in the freezer for at least four hours to firm up completely.
- Serve: Scoop the finished ice cream into serving cups or cones, and enjoy the creamy, caramel-infused dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the dulce de leche is fully melted and blended into the cream mixture for smooth texture.
- Chilling the base overnight improves texture and flavor development.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can place the mixture in a shallow container and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until firm to prevent ice crystals.
- Use homemade dulce de leche if preferred for a fresh, natural flavor.
- To soften the ice cream before scooping, leave it out at room temperature for a few minutes.