Guide to Coffee Flavored Ice Cream: Origins and Recipes
Coffee ice cream is one of the most popular ice cream flavors. Its strong coffee taste and smooth, custard-like consistency make it a treat that ice cream lovers everywhere crave.
This guide will give an overview of coffee ice cream and its history. It includes recipes for making traditional and more unique coffee ice cream varieties at home. There are also tips for proper storage and creative ways to serve this classic dessert.
The Origin of Coffee Flavored Ice Cream
The very first known coffee ice cream appeared way back in 1869. At that time, it was featured as the star ingredient in a fashionable frozen dessert called a coffee parfait.
In the early days of ice cream making the recipes and techniques used were quite different than modern methods done with electric machines. These antique coffee ice cream varieties would have been hand-cranked to produce a deliciously rich and creamy, custard-like texture and mouthfeel.
Later on, as commercial ice cream manufacturers emerged onto the scene in the early 20th century, coffee quickly became a standard flavor offering by many popular brands.
In 1960, one of the first nationwide ice cream sensations was Häagen-Dazs. When this now legendary brand was launched, coffee was one of only three varieties initially sold, which illustrates just how widely loved and in-demand the coffee flavor has been for well over a full century at this point!
Two of Häagen-Dazs founding flavors in 1960 were coffee ice cream and chocolate ice cream, plus the classic vanilla. This demonstrates how the coffee-flavored option has long been up there with other top staple ice cream tastes that Americans crave.
The Rise to Popularity
In current times, surveys and polls indicate that coffee ice cream continues to be among the most popular and favorite flavors chosen by ice cream enthusiasts across the United States.
A 2022 consumer study conducted by Instacart reviewing ice cream purchasing habits found coffee to be the number one most purchased ice cream variety in the states of Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Mexico and Rhode Island.
Coffee ice cream seems to be especially beloved and devoured with delight on the east coast region of the U.S. Some food historians believe this may be due to East Coast residents generally appreciating and savoring more intense, rich flavors overall.
The cold icy Northeast winter climate could also boost cravings for hot, steamy foods and drinks like coffee that bring warming sensations.
The ongoing widespread fondness for coffee-flavored frozen treats is additionally shown by coffee ice cream being granted its very own annual National Coffee Ice Cream Day which falls on September 6th every year.
On this special day, families, friends and communities all across America eagerly enjoy scoops of this tasty dessert in various creative ways and pay flavorful homage to one of ice cream's most classic creations.
Ingredients and Substitutes
Coffee ice cream is made from some basic core ingredients like cream, milk, sugar, coffee beans, eggs and vanilla extract. But what if you want to avoid certain ingredients due to dietary preferences or food sensitivities? Here are several simple substitute options:
For the dairy components of milk and cream, non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk, almond milk, oat milk or soy milk can be swapped in instead. Just be sure to choose varieties that are higher in fat content to mimic the creamy texture that dairy provides.
If you want to make a vegan coffee ice cream without eggs, there are a few easy egg replacers to use. Two options are ground chia seeds or ground flax seeds which act as binders. Usually 1 tablespoon of the egg substitute can be used to replace each egg called for in the recipe.
To provide sweetness without plain white sugar, some choices are maple syrup, stevia extracts, date syrup or monk fruit sweetener. When using these liquid sugars, you may need to reduce other liquids in the recipe slightly to account for the extra moisture.
Finally, to avoid caffeine, decaf coffee beans or instant coffee powder can be used rather than regular coffee. Just use the same measured amounts of decaf coffee to ensure full flavor. There are even varieties made from alternative "coffees" like chicory root, dandelion root and cereals which provide a similar rich taste.
With all of these handy substitutes, it's easy to customize coffee ice cream to suit dietary needs and preferences!
Traditional Coffee Ice Cream Recipe
Making old-fashioned coffee ice cream at home may sound complex but it's actually quite simple to whip up from scratch with basic kitchen tools and a handful of ingredients. Here is an easy traditional recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2/3 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee, cooled to room temperature
- 6 large egg yolks from cage-free eggs
Equipment Needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Wire whisk
- Fine mesh strainer
- Ice cream maker
Instructions:
1. Pour the cream, milk, sugar and vanilla into a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk gently and frequently until the mixture begins steaming and the sugar fully dissolves. Be careful not to let it come to a boil.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with a wire whisk until smooth and slightly thickened. Slowly pour about half of the hot cream mixture into the yolks while continually whisking. This tempers the yolks, so they do not scramble.
3. Return the warmed egg yolk mixture to the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Heat while stirring constantly with the whisk until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
4. Remove the pan from heat. Gently stir in the 1 cup of cooled brewed coffee until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a container, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours until completely chilled.
6. Churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions, usually 20-30 minutes. This aerates the mixture and gives it a smooth, creamy texture.
7. Transfer the soft ice cream into a freezer safe storage container, cover surface with plastic wrap and seal lid. Freeze for at least 2 more hours before serving for optimum consistency.
Be very careful not to overheat the egg yolk mixture when cooking the custard base on the stovetop, as this can cause curdling. Gentle heating while constantly stirring gives the perfect velvety finish.
Innovative Coffee Ice Cream Recipes
While traditional coffee ice cream is certainly delicious, experimenting with fun, unexpected flavors can make things exciting. Below are recipes for two tasty twists on the classic coffee ice cream that you can try creating at home.
Vegan Hazelnut Coffee Ice Cream
This dairy-free, plant-based ice cream variation features the nutty essence of hazelnut blending sublimely with smooth coffee creaminess.
The rich hazelnut butter and touch of maple provide sweetness, while the coffee powder contributes warming depth. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors even further.
You'll be amazed how incredibly creamy and ice-cream-like this nut milk-based version turns out!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew milk (or other nut milk like almond or oat)
- 1⁄2 cup maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons hazelnut butter
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch sea salt
Directions:
1. Add all ingredients to a large mixing bowl. Using a wire whisk, vigorously blend everything together until fully incorporated and smooth with no lumps.
2. Pour the liquid mixture into an ice cream maker and churn for 25-35 minutes following the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Once thick, creamy and frozen, transfer the finished ice cream into an airtight freezer-safe container, cover securely and freeze solid for at least 6 hours before serving.
4. Enjoy scoops of this unique vegan hazelnut coffee delicacy on its own or as a topping for cakes, pies and desserts!
Decaf Coffee Ice Cream for Late Night Treats
This soothing, decaffeinated coffee ice cream lets you satisfy late night sweets cravings without caffeine disrupting sleep.
The recipe uses decaf coffee beans during the custard steeping process to infuse rich flavor without the buzz. A subtle touch of finely ground decaf coffee adds extra complexity.
It churns up ultra-smooth and creamy which is ideal for midnight snacks or desserts after evening meals!
Ingredients:
- 1 1⁄2 cups whole milk
- 3⁄4 cup sugar
- 1 1⁄2 cups decaf coffee beans
- Pinch salt
- 1 1⁄2 cups heavy cream, divided
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1⁄4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1⁄4 teaspoon ground decaf coffee
Directions:
1. Heat milk, sugar, decaf beans, salt and 1⁄2 cup cream in a saucepan until hot and steamy. Remove from heat, cover and allow to infuse for 1 hour.
2. Whisk egg yolks then gradually temper with the warm decaf milk mixture. Return the warmed yolks to the saucepan.
3. Heat the mixture, stirring constantly, until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Strain through a sieve over a bowl containing remaining 1 cup cream.
5. Mix in vanilla and ground decaf coffee. Chill base thoroughly.
6. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions.
7. Enjoy scoops of this sweet late-night treat without any worries about losing sleep!
Making Coffee Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker
Don't have any fancy ice cream making equipment at home? Not a problem! Here's how to use basic kitchen tools to produce smooth, creamy coffee ice cream:
Ingredients:
- 1 14 oz can sweeten condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1⁄3 cup good quality instant coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
1. Add all ingredients to a large mixing bowl. Using a wire whisk, vigorously blend everything together thoroughly until slightly thickened.
2. Pour the liquid mixture into a freezer-safe storage container. Cover and freeze for 2 hours until firming up.
3. Remove the container and beat the mixture vigorously with whisk again to introduce air pockets. This helps improve texture.
4. Return to the freezer to solidify completely, about 4 more hours.
5. Remove and vigorously whisk once more before scooping and serving for optimal creamy, ice cream-like consistency.
Beating the mixture introduces air which enhances smoothness and creaminess without an ice cream maker. Repeat the freezing and beating process 2-3 times total for best results.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Coffee ice cream is endlessly versatile for dessert pairings and serving ideas.
Delicious Pairings:
- Sandwich between chocolate cookies or brownies for an ice cream sandwich
- Top warm apple or peach pie
- Serve alongside chocolate cake, tiramisu or black forest trifle
- Fold into fresh fruit sorbets
Creative Serving Ideas:
- Scoop into a mug and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings
- Layer in a parfait glass with bananas, chocolate sauce and crushed cookies
- Fill cream puff pastries or profiteroles
- Use as a cake filling and frosting
Storing Coffee Ice Cream
To keep homemade coffee ice cream tasting fresh, store it properly in the freezer. Some tips:
- Use airtight containers like mason jars or freezer-safe plastic tubs. Metal containers can cause ice cream to take on a stale flavor.
- Press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing lids to prevent ice crystals.
- Freeze up to one month for best quality and taste.
- Store at 0°F or colder to preserve the ideal texture. Buy a thermometer to monitor.
- If freezing for longer than 2 months, beat the mixture briefly before serving to restore smooth, creamy consistency.
With the right storage methods, you can enjoy delicious coffee ice cream for months!
Conclusion
Coffee ice cream holds a special spot in the world of frozen desserts. It has delighted people for generations with its sweet, refreshing taste. Part of the enjoyment is due to the air of mystery surrounding this unique flavor.
This guide has shed light on the fascinating history of coffee ice cream. It also provides everything needed to start crafting this tongue-tingling treat at home. From time-tested traditional recipes to new taste adventures, the options for whipping up coffee ice cream magic are endless.
FAQs
What is coffee ice cream made of?
Coffee ice cream typically contains cream, milk, sugar, coffee beans, egg yolks and extracts like vanilla. The ingredients are combined into a sweet custard base before being churned and frozen.
Is coffee ice cream just flavored or does it contain caffeine?
Coffee ice cream can be made either way. Most traditional recipes use regular caffeinated coffee to provide an authentic, robust flavor. But it’s easy to substitute decaf coffee beans or powder.
What is the most popular coffee ice cream brand?
Häagen-Dazs coffee ice cream remains one of the country’s favorites after more than 60 years. Other leading national brands include Breyers, Ben & Jerry’s and Talenti.
Can you make coffee ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! While an ice cream maker produces the smoothest, creamiest results, it’s possible to make tasty coffee ice cream at home without one. The key techniques are vigorous whisking during freezing and regularly beating the mixture to introduce air pockets.
Is coffee ice cream just for dessert?
While coffee ice cream shines as a sweet treat, it can work in savory dishes too. Blend it into a rich tomato soup, swirl into stews or fold into omelets. Coffee ice cream can provide a pleasant creaminess and subtle sweetness to various recipes.
What nuts go well with coffee ice cream?
Nuts like almonds, hazelnuts and walnuts make excellent additions to coffee ice cream recipes. Their crunch provides a delicious contrast to the ice cream’s smooth texture. Other tasty mix-ins include chocolate chips, butterscotch swirls and crumbled cookies.
Can you freeze homemade coffee ice cream?
Yes, homemade coffee ice cream stores very well in the freezer. Just be sure to use an airtight container and press plastic wrap onto the surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals. Stored properly, it will last 1-2 months. Beat briefly before serving for the best texture.