How to Make Black Sesame Ice Cream: Easy Homemade Recipe with Tips

Table of Contents

• Easy Homemade Black Sesame Ice Cream Recipe
• Storing Your Black Sesame Ice Cream
• Creative Ways to Use Black Sesame Ice Cream
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Easy Homemade Black Sesame Ice Cream Recipe

Black sesame ice cream is a delicious, nutty dessert that you can easily make at home with simple ingredients. This authentic recipe yields creamy, rich ice cream with a smooth texture and subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup black sesame seeds (raw, unsalted)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast and grind sesame seeds: Heat black sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Let cool, then grind into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
2. Heat dairy mixture: In a saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium until steaming (do not boil), then remove from heat.
3. Prepare egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the eggs while whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
4. Cook custard: Return the mixture to the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
5. Strain and chill: Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Stir in black sesame powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Churn and freeze: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions (usually 20-25 minutes). Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for 2-4 hours until firm.

Storing Your Black Sesame Ice Cream

To maintain the best texture and flavor, store homemade black sesame ice cream properly:

• Keep in an airtight container at 0°F (-18°C) to prevent ice crystals.
• Consume within 2-3 weeks for optimal freshness.
• Avoid repeated thawing and refreezing, which degrades quality.
• Place a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Creative Ways to Use Black Sesame Ice Cream

Black sesame ice cream is versatile beyond the scoop. Try these ideas to elevate your desserts:

• Ice cream sandwiches: Sandwich between two chocolate chip cookies for a crunchy, creamy treat.
• Milkshake: Blend with cold milk and a drizzle of honey for a rich, nutty shake.
• Parfait: Layer with fresh berries and granola for a balanced breakfast or snack.
• Hot dessert topping: Melt slightly and drizzle over warm brownies or apple pie.
• Vegan sorbet: Substitute dairy with coconut milk for a dairy-free version (use 1 can full-fat coconut milk instead of milk and cream).

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make black sesame ice cream without an ice cream maker?

  Yes! Pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Stir every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours until smooth. This method requires more effort but works well for small batches.

• What does black sesame ice cream taste like?

  It has a distinctive nutty, toasty flavor with earthy undertones and a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness. It's richer and more complex than vanilla or chocolate.

• Is black sesame ice cream vegan?

  Traditional recipes use dairy, but you can easily make it vegan by substituting whole milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. Use 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk for the dairy components.

• How do I prevent ice crystals in homemade ice cream?

  Chill the mixture thoroughly before churning, use an airtight container, and minimize air exposure by pressing parchment paper against the surface. Avoid frequent temperature changes.

• Where can I buy high-quality black sesame seeds?

  Look for organic black sesame seeds at Asian grocery stores, health food stores, or online retailers like Amazon. Choose seeds labeled "raw" or "unsalted" for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Homemade black sesame ice cream is a rewarding dessert that combines authentic East Asian flavors with simple techniques. With this recipe, you can create a creamy, nutty treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a beginner or experienced cook, following these steps ensures delicious results every time. Experiment with creative uses and enjoy the unique taste of this versatile frozen dessert.