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Lavender ice cream

⏱ 180 min🍳 20 min👤 4 pp★★★★☆

There are places that, for many reasons, are particularly agreeable to live in, so-called places of the soul where it is simply good to be alive, especially if you love gastronomic traditions and beautiful landscapes. One of the corners of the world where it is still possible to dream in this way is Provence: this French soil, rich in lavender fields, offers the visitor wonderful views and an irresistible and heady scent from the flowers. So here is our recipe for lavender ice cream, a truly refined delicacy that, if prepared with love and attention to detail and an appreciation of the craft of homemade desserts, will leave your dinner party guests speechless. So, go into the kitchen and let yourself be guided through our recipe for this intoxicating and tempting specialty, perfect for rounding off a dinner party: your guests will appreciate it.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 385 kcal / serving
Protein
6g
Carbohydrates
32g
Fat
28g
Fiber
0g

* approximate values per serving

Information
180 minutes Preparation time
20 minutes Cooking time
Serves 4 persons
★★★★☆ Hard

Preparation

Heat the milk and cream in a saucepan and when they reach boiling point, remove from the heat and infuse for half an hour with the lavender flowers. Meanwhile, beat the egg yolks, sugar and honey with an electric mixer until they become light and fluffy. When the milk has cooled a little and taken on the lavender aroma, pass it through a sieve and mix in the beaten egg, whisking it in well. Put the mixture back on a low flame: keep the heat low and stir constantly to make sure the egg does not curdle. When you get a fluid consistency which is not too liquid, remove from the heat and let it cool. Once cold, decant the mixture into an ice cream maker and stir for 1 hour. Serve with some fresh lavender flower to decorate.

Tips
Prepare your lavender ice cream by thinking carefully about what flavour will best match that of the lavender flower: in principle, vanilla probably offers the best combination.
Trivia
Lavender has been used since Rome times to influence people's health and, in particular, to improve one’s hair and skin.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
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Additional information

Lavender Gelato with Acacia Honey

A delicious variant of lavender gelato is the addition of acacia honey, which further enhances the floral aroma and brings a delicate sweetness. To prepare this version, simply replace regular honey with acacia honey during the preparation. This honey, known for its light and floral flavor, pairs perfectly with lavender flowers, creating a creamy and aromatic gelato. Additionally, acacia honey has a lower glycemic index compared to other types of honey, making this preparation not only tasty but also a bit healthier. You can serve this lavender gelato with acacia honey as an elegant dessert for a dinner or as a refreshing snack during hot summer days.

Provençal Style Lavender Gelato

Lavender gelato finds its origin in French culinary tradition, particularly in the Provence region. Here, lavender flowers are a key ingredient in many recipes, and gelato is no exception. The Provençal preparation involves using fresh, local ingredients, such as high-quality milk and cream, to ensure an authentic flavor. During the infusion of lavender flowers, a pinch of sea salt can also be added, which balances the sweetness and intensifies the aroma of the gelato. This version is perfect for those who wish to bring a bit of Provence home, offering a taste of summer every time you enjoy a scoop of lavender gelato.

Light Lavender Gelato without Sugar

For those watching their weight, there is a light version of lavender gelato, prepared without added sugar. This recipe uses natural sweeteners like erythritol or stevia, which provide sweetness without the extra calories. The preparation remains similar, with the infusion of lavender flowers in milk and cream, but the final result is a gelato that retains its characteristic aroma and flavor, but with fewer calories. Additionally, one can opt for reduced-fat cream, making this light lavender gelato an excellent choice for those who want a refreshing dessert without guilt. It is perfect for those following low-calorie diets or for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Benefits of Lavender in Lavender Gelato and Approximate Calories

Lavender gelato is not only a delightful treat but also brings several health benefits, thanks to the lavender flowers. These flowers are known for their calming and relaxing properties, helpful in alleviating stress and promoting sleep. Furthermore, lavender has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that contribute to overall well-being. In terms of calories, a serving of lavender gelato (about 100 grams) contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. By choosing to use lighter ingredients, such as reduced-fat cream, it is possible to further reduce the calorie intake while maintaining the flavor intact.

Can Lavender Gelato be Frozen?

Yes, lavender gelato can be frozen and stored for a long time. However, it is important to follow some guidelines to maintain its creamy consistency. Once prepared, the gelato should be transferred to an airtight container to prevent ice crystals from forming. Before serving, it is advisable to let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes so that it softens and is easier to scoop. If stored properly, lavender gelato can remain in the freezer for several weeks without compromising its flavor and quality. This way, you can enjoy it whenever you desire a refreshing and fragrant treat.