Coffee Caramel Crunch Ice Cream
This Coffee Caramel Crunch Ice Cream combines the bold flavor of coffee, the sweetness of caramel, and a satisfying crunch from caramelized sugar or crushed nuts. Made with simple ingredients like coffee, cream, and milk, this homemade ice cream is creamy, indulgent, and perfect for any coffee lover. The ice cream is easy to make, with options to customize the crunch element to your liking. It’s the ultimate dessert for special occasions or just to enjoy as a refreshing treat on a warm day.Nutrition Facts (per serving):Calories: 400 kcal, Fat: 24g, Saturated Fat: 14g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Sugars: 41g, Protein: 2g, Cholesterol: 85mg, Sodium: 150mg, Fiber: 1g, Calcium: 75mg, Caffeine: 40mg (from brewed coffee)Estimated based on one serving (assuming 8 servings per batch)
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker (1 unit)
- Saucepan (2 units)
- Mixing Bowl (1 unit)
- Measuring cups and spoons (1 set)
- Spatula (1 unit)
- Airtight Container (1 unit)
Ingredients
- 1 cup brewed coffee strong
- 3/4 cup sugar granulated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought caramel
- 1/2 cup crushed caramelized sugar or chopped nuts such as pecans, almonds, or walnuts
Instructions
Brew the Coffee Base:
- Brew 1 cup of strong coffee or espresso. Let it cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Caramel:
- In a saucepan, melt 3/4 cup of sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden-brown. Once the sugar has melted into caramel, carefully stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let the caramel cool before using it in the ice cream.
Make the Ice Cream Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled brewed coffee, 1 cup of whole milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp salt. Whisk in the cooled caramel and sugar mixture. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the ice cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
Add the Crunch:
- During the last few minutes of churning, add 1/2 cup of crushed caramelized sugar or chopped nuts to the ice cream. Allow it to incorporate evenly throughout the base.
Freeze and Set:
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for 3-4 hours or until firm.
Serve:
- Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones, and enjoy the rich, creamy, and crunchy treat!
Notes
Recipe Notes:
- Coffee Selection: Use strong brewed coffee or espresso to ensure the flavor is pronounced in the final ice cream. Decaffeinated coffee can be used for a caffeine-free version.
- Caramel: Homemade caramel adds a rich, authentic flavor, but store-bought caramel can be a convenient option for those short on time. Be sure to cool the caramel completely before mixing it into the ice cream base.
- Texture: If you prefer a firmer ice cream, allow it to freeze longer. For a creamier texture, ensure the base is well-chilled before churning, and avoid over-churning.
- Crunch Variations: Experiment with different crunchy elements like toffee bits, crushed cookies, or chocolate-covered espresso beans for a fun twist on the classic flavor.