Name: Indulge in Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 275 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Fresh Strawberries (Ensure they are ripe for optimal flavor and sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (This helps caramelize the strawberries; reduce if they are particularly sweet.); 1 teaspoon Lime Zest (Adds brightness; can substitute with lemon zest if preferred.); 2 cups Heavy Cream (Provides creaminess; consider substituting half with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Milk (Lightens the texture; use any milk, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.); 4 large Egg Yolks (Essential for structure and creaminess; cannot be substituted without affecting texture.); 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (Infuses herbal notes; omit if desired for a simpler flavor.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor depth; using vanilla bean offers a more intense taste.); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Adds tanginess and brightens the overall flavor; fresh juice is preferred for the best taste.)

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There’s nothing quite like the intoxicating smell of strawberries roasting in the oven; it’s a scent that transports me into a world where summer never ends. When I first stumbled upon the idea of pairing these sweet gems with refreshing lime and fragrant basil, I knew I had found a dessert that could elevate any occasion. Imagine, on a warm afternoon, treating yourself and loved ones to a scoop of creamy Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream, each bite bursting with flavor and warmth.

This isn’t just any ice cream; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transforming into a luxurious delight. The caramelized strawberries meld beautifully with the bright notes of lime and aromatic basil—a combination that dances on your palate. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home, this ice cream exudes elegance while being remarkably easy to make. So, let’s dive into the details and create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also unforgettable!

Why is Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream so special?

Uniquely delicious: This ice cream surprises with the unexpected pairing of sweet roasted strawberries and zesty lime basil. Luxurious taste: The roasting process enhances the strawberries’ natural sweetness, creating a rich, caramelized flavor. Easy to make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can master this gourmet treat effortlessly. Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a quiet picnic, this dessert brings a touch of elegance. Crowd favorite: Everyone will be asking for seconds once they taste the refreshing combination that redefines traditional ice cream!

Ingredients for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream

For the Roasted Strawberries

Fresh Strawberries – Ensure they are ripe for optimal flavor and sweetness.
Granulated Sugar – This helps caramelize the strawberries; reduce if they are particularly sweet.
Lime Zest – Adds brightness; can substitute with lemon zest if preferred.

For the Ice Cream Base

Heavy Cream – Provides creaminess; consider substituting half with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Milk – Lightens the texture; use any milk, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Egg Yolks – Essential for structure and creaminess; cannot be substituted without affecting texture.
Fresh Basil Leaves – Infuses herbal notes; omit if desired for a simpler flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; using vanilla bean offers a more intense taste.
Lime Juice – Adds tanginess and brightens the overall flavor; fresh juice is preferred for the best taste.

With these ingredients, you’ll create a delightful Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream that will surprise and delight everyone at your next gathering!

How to Make Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial to get those strawberries perfectly roasted.
Prepare the strawberries: Spread washed and hulled strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle them with sugar and lime zest to enhance their natural sweetness, creating a magical flavor.
Roast the strawberries: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway, until the strawberries are caramelized and their juices are bubbling.
Cool and mash: Once roasted, let the strawberries cool slightly. Mash or puree them based on your desired texture—this will be the fabulous fruit element of your ice cream!
Combine dairy ingredients: In a saucepan, gently combine the heavy cream, milk, and half of the granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, being careful not to boil the mixture.
Whisk egg yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining sugar until the mixture turns pale. This will help create a rich, creamy custard base for your ice cream.
Temper the yolks: Slowly add a ladle of the warm cream mixture to the yolks while whisking vigorously. This process is important to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Cook the custard: Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream. Heat over low, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—usually around 5 minutes.
Infuse with basil: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the fresh basil leaves. Let it steep for about 15 minutes, allowing the herbal aroma to permeate the creamy base. Strain out the basil leaves to maintain a smooth texture.
Combine flavors: Mix in your roasted strawberry puree, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 4 hours to develop the flavors fully.
Churn the ice cream: Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions—usually for about 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft and creamy consistency.
Freeze the ice cream: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container. Freeze for at least 4 hours until it’s firm and scoopable.
Serve and enjoy: Scoop into bowls or cones, garnishing with fresh basil or your favorite toppings for an extra special touch.

Optional: Top with a drizzle of honey for an added touch of sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream

Feel free to explore these fun ideas to personalize your ice cream masterpiece!

Lemon Zest: Swap lime for zingy lemon zest for a colorful citrus twist; it brightens the flavor profile beautifully.
Mint Leaves: Replace basil with fresh mint for a refreshing, cooling sensation that perfectly complements the strawberries.
Coconut Cream: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free delight with tropical undertones; the creaminess remains intact!
Cardamom Spice: Add a pinch of ground cardamom to bring warm, aromatic notes; this spice elevates the dessert with its exotic flair.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips during the last minutes of churning for an unexpected, indulgent twist that pairs perfectly with the fruitiness.
Nuts: Toasted almonds or pistachios can be blended in for delightful crunch and nutty flavor; this provides an exciting texture contrast!
Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle a touch of chili flakes into the ice cream base for a fun kick that surprises the taste buds.
Wild Berries: Mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added depth and colorful swirls; they harmonize wonderfully with the strawberries’ sweetness.

Let your creativity shine through with these deliciously diverse variations!

Storage Tips for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream

Room Temperature: Enjoy your ice cream freshly scooped for the best texture; however, it should not be left out for more than 10-15 minutes before it starts to melt.

Fridge: If you anticipate not finishing the ice cream right away, store it in the fridge for up to 2 days to soften slightly before serving.

Freezer: For long-term storage, keep your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream in an airtight container and allow it to freeze for up to one month to maintain optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating: If the ice cream becomes too hard, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping for the perfect scoop every time!

Expert Tips for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream

Select Ripe Strawberries: Use berries that are fully ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor; underripe strawberries can taste sour and affect your ice cream.
Monitor the Cream Mixture: Avoid boiling the cream when heating it, as this can curdle your egg yolks and ruin the custard consistency.
Strain Thoroughly: To achieve a perfectly smooth ice cream base, strain the mixture carefully, ensuring no lumps or basil leaves remain.
Chill Before Churning: Be patient and chill your mixture for at least 4 hours before churning; this step helps flavors meld beautifully and enhances the texture of your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream.
Know Your Ice Cream Maker: Understand the churning time based on your model; over-churning can lead to icy textures instead of that velvety smoothness you’re aiming for.

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can roast the strawberries and prepare the ice cream base up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the base after mixing in the strawberry puree. This not only saves precious time but also enhances the flavors as they meld overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just churn the ice cream as directed and freeze until firm (about 4 hours). Make sure to store in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain that rich, creamy texture. Enjoy the convenience of having a gourmet dessert ready to impress your guests!

What to Serve with Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the creamy, fruity combination.

Buttery Biscuit: Perfectly complements the ice cream’s richness, adding a satisfying crunch to every creamy scoop.
Minty Fruit Salad: A refreshing blend of seasonal fruits with a hint of mint enhances the vibrant strawberry flavors. This combo is light and bursting with freshness.
Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of silky chocolate adds a luxurious touch, balancing the tangy lime beautifully. Chocolate and strawberries are a classic pairing that never fails to impress.
Toasted Almonds: The nutty crunch of toasted almonds contrasts beautifully with the creaminess, offering a delightful textural element in each bite.
Sparkling Lemonade: A cold glass of sparkling lemonade brightens the indulgence, providing a cheerful and bubbly contrast to the luscious ice cream.
Shortbread Cookies: These buttery, crumbly cookies make a lovely accompaniment, perfect for scooping up the smooth ice cream while adding a hint of sweetness.
Gourmet Waffle Cones: Serve your ice cream in homemade cones for a fun twist! They bring an added layer of flavor and texture that enhances the overall experience.
Fresh Basil Garnish: A sprig of fresh basil on top not only looks elegant but also enhances the basil notes already present in the ice cream, creating a harmonious finish.

These delightful accompaniments will create a full culinary experience, marrying flavors and textures that highlight your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream beautifully.

Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best strawberries for roasting?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are deep red, firm, and without any dark spots. Ripe strawberries will be sweet and juicy, enhancing the flavor of your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream. Avoid those that are dull or have green patches, as they may not ripen well once picked.

How long can I store Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream?
You can keep your ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. To prevent freezer burn, consider placing a piece of wax paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. If you want to enjoy it fresh, it’s best consumed within 2-3 weeks for optimal taste and texture!

Can I freeze the strawberry puree separately? How?
Yes, you can freeze the roasted strawberry puree! Allow it to cool completely, then pour it into ice cube trays or silicone molds. Freeze until solid, usually about 3 hours, then transfer the cubes to an airtight freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer, and you can use them in smoothies, sauces, or even as a quick addition to your ice cream!

What if my ice cream is too hard after freezing?
Not to worry! If your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream is too hard, simply take it out of the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping. This will bring it to the perfect serving consistency. If you find it consistently hard, consider churning it for a few extra minutes next time to incorporate more air, which will make it creamier.

Is this recipe safe for those with egg allergies?
It’s important to note that this ice cream contains egg yolks, which are essential for the custard-like texture. If you or your loved ones have an egg allergy, you may want to explore egg-free alternative ice cream recipes. However, you can experiment with a custard-free ice cream method by replacing the egg yolks with more cream and incorporating a cornstarch mixture for thickening. Just remember that the texture and richness may vary from the original recipe!

Can I adjust the sweetness of the ice cream?
Very easily! If your strawberries are particularly sweet, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in both the roasted strawberries and the ice cream base. Start by adding half and tasting along the way, as the lime juice will also add a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness—adjust it until it suits your palate.