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Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Recipe

5 from 118 reviews

Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream is an elegant dessert that artfully combines the natural sweetness of oven-roasted strawberries with the zesty brightness of lime and the fresh, aromatic notes of basil. This creamy ice cream offers a balanced harmony of sweet, tart, and herbal flavors, served as a refreshing treat ideal for warm days, summer celebrations, or sophisticated dinner parties. The custard-based ice cream features luscious texture and complex flavors, making it a delightful indulgence that’s simple to prepare yet impressive in presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Roasted Strawberries

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or honey
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest

For the Ice Cream Base

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 5 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, finely chopped

For Garnishing (optional)

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Thinly sliced lime wedges
  • A drizzle of strawberry syrup or honey

Instructions

  1. Roast the Strawberries: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the hulled and halved strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with granulated sugar and lime zest. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring once halfway to ensure even caramelization. Allow strawberries to cool completely, then blend into a puree or mash to desired consistency for a smooth or slightly chunky texture.
  2. Prepare the Ice Cream Base: In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and half of the granulated sugar. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and creamy. Temper the yolks by slowly adding a small amount of warm cream mixture while whisking continuously. Gradually pour tempered yolks back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
  3. Cook the Custard: Gently cook the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until it thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, being careful not to boil to avoid curdling. Remove from heat.
  4. Infuse the Basil: Stir chopped fresh basil leaves into the warm custard base. Let the mixture steep for 15 minutes to release basil aroma. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove basil leaves and any lumps.
  5. Combine Strawberry Puree and Flavorings: Mix the cooled roasted strawberry puree into the strained custard. Stir in lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until thoroughly chilled.
  6. Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn per manufacturer’s instructions for about 20-25 minutes until soft-serve consistency is reached.
  7. Freeze Until Firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container. Cover surface with parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals. Freeze for a minimum of 4 hours until firm and scoopable.
  8. Serve and Garnish: Scoop into bowls or cones. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of strawberry syrup or honey, and thin lime slices for an elegant presentation.

Notes

  • Roast strawberries in smaller batches for even caramelization.
  • Adjust sweetness by varying sugar amount in roasted strawberries and ice cream base.
  • Ensure the custard base is fully chilled before churning for best texture.
  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries and fragrant basil for optimal flavor.
  • If you don’t have an ice cream maker, freeze custard in a shallow container and stir every 30 minutes until creamy and firm.
  • Variations include vegan substitutes, mixed berries, mint instead of basil, added orange zest, or chocolate swirl incorporation.
  • Serve with shortbread cookies, whipped cream, or in sparkling lime soda for variety.

Keywords: Roasted Strawberries, Lime Basil Ice Cream, Summer Dessert, Homemade Ice Cream, Custard Ice Cream, Roasted Fruit Dessert, Lime Zest, Fresh Basil, Elegant Ice Cream, Strawberry Dessert