Vanilla Fig Ice Cream
A luscious, semi-homemade ice cream blending creamy vanilla and naturally sweet fig preserves. Ready in minutes, it’s a fiber-rich, protein-friendly dessert perfect for a hot day or anytime you crave a satisfying treat. Optional cognac adds a gourmet touch for adult-friendly indulgence.
Equipment
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 rubber spatula or spoon
- 1 freezer-safe container (1–2 quart capacity)
- 1 refrigerator for chilling
Ingredients
- ½ cup chilled fig preserves
- 1 pint premium vanilla ice cream softened
- 1 tablespoon cognac optional
Instructions
- Soften the Ice Cream: Remove the pint of premium vanilla ice cream from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator for about 45–60 minutes. This step allows the ice cream to soften slightly, making it easier to fold in the fig preserves and optional cognac. Softened ice cream ensures a smooth, creamy texture without breaking down completely into a liquid.
- Prepare Your Workspace: While the ice cream is softening, gather all your ingredients and equipment. Place a medium mixing bowl on the countertop, along with a rubber spatula or large spoon. Have the chilled fig preserves ready, and if you’re using cognac, measure out 1 tablespoon. Ensuring everything is prepped beforehand will make the mixing process seamless.
- Combine Fig Preserves and Cognac: In the medium mixing bowl, add ½ cup of chilled fig preserves. If you are including the optional cognac, pour in 1 tablespoon. Using a spatula, gently stir the preserves and cognac together until they form a smooth, slightly runny mixture. The cognac not only enhances the flavor but also helps the fig blend evenly into the ice cream.
- Incorporate Ice Cream into Mixture: Remove the softened ice cream from the refrigerator. Using your spatula, transfer the ice cream into the mixing bowl with the fig-cognac mixture. Slowly fold the ice cream into the preserves using gentle, sweeping motions. Take care not to overmix, as you want to maintain a creamy texture while evenly distributing the fig pieces throughout.
- Flatten and Smooth the Ice Cream: Once the fig preserves are fully incorporated, transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container (1–2 quart capacity works best). Use the spatula to flatten the top and smooth out the surface. This ensures that the ice cream freezes evenly and is easy to scoop later.
- Freeze Until Firm: Cover the container with an airtight lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the freezer and allow it to set for at least 2–4 hours, or until it reaches a firm, scoopable consistency. For best results, avoid opening the freezer frequently during this time to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Serve and Enjoy: When ready to enjoy, remove the ice cream from the freezer about 5–10 minutes before serving to let it soften slightly for easier scooping. Serve in bowls or cones, and garnish optionally with fresh figs, a drizzle of honey, or a few chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Savor each creamy, naturally sweet bite!
Notes
- Use high-quality, premium vanilla ice cream for the creamiest results.
- Chilled fig preserves work best, as they blend smoothly without melting the ice cream.
- Cognac is optional, but it adds a subtle depth of flavor and sophistication.
- Gently fold ingredients to maintain a creamy texture; overmixing can make the ice cream icy.
- Let the ice cream soften slightly before scooping for the best serving experience.
- Freezer-safe containers with airtight lids prevent ice crystals and maintain flavor.
