Ever Craved a Creamy Dessert with a Fiery Cinnamon Kick?
Imagine scooping into a velvety, rich ice cream that combines the smooth sweetness of vanilla with a bold, spicy burst of cinnamon, delivering a perfect balance of cool creaminess and fiery warmth. Sounds like a dessert that’s both comforting and exciting, right? That’s exactly what Fire and Ice Cream delivers! Rated 5.0 stars from 5 reviews, this easy recipe yields 1 quart (about 8 servings) and creates a unique, no-custard ice cream that’s perfect for summer evenings, holiday gatherings, or a fun twist on dessert. Requiring just an ice cream maker and minimal prep, it’s beginner-friendly and quick to whip up. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through every step to create this spicy-sweet masterpiece, with tips for perfect churning and flavor balance. Ready to churn some fiery magic? Let’s get started!
Overview: Why This Ice Cream Shines
Fire and Ice Cream is a simple, no-cook dessert that blends the creamy richness of whipping cream and half-and-half with the warm, spicy kick of cinnamon oil or extract, sweetened with sugar and enhanced by vanilla. The absence of eggs makes it quicker than custard-based ice creams, while the cinnamon adds a bold, fiery twist that sets it apart. This recipe yields 1 quart, requires just 10 minutes of active prep and 2 hours of chilling, and is ideal for make-ahead treats. Its 5.0-star rating reflects its ease, unique flavor, and crowd-pleasing appeal, perfect for those who love a sweet-spicy combo.
- Time Requirement: 10 minutes prep, 20-30 minutes churning, 2 hours freezing. Total: ~2 hours 10 minutes (mostly hands-off).
- Difficulty Level: Easy. Simple mixing and churning make it beginner-friendly.
- Why It’s Special: Yields 1 quart (8 servings), offers a bold cinnamon-vanilla flavor, and requires no cooking for a quick, creamy dessert.
- Health Perks: Dairy provides calcium, but the sugar and cream make this a rich treat to enjoy sparingly.
Grab your ice cream maker and a whisk, and let’s create a fiery, creamy delight!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe uses just six pantry staples for a bold, creamy ice cream. Here’s what you need and why each matters:
- Whipping Cream (2 cups): Creates a rich, creamy base.
- Why it matters: Provides the luxurious, smooth texture of the ice cream.
- Substitution: Use heavy cream (same amount) or coconut cream for dairy-free (flavor will shift slightly).
- Half-and-Half (2 cups): Balances creaminess and lightness.
- Why it matters: Adds richness without making the ice cream too heavy.
- Substitution: Use a mix of 1 cup whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream, or plant-based half-and-half for dairy-free.
- Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the ice cream.
- Why it matters: Dissolves into the cream for a smooth, sweet base.
- Substitution: Use a 1:1 sugar substitute like Swerve or reduce to 3/4 cup for less sweetness (may affect texture).
- Kosher Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances flavor.
- Why it matters: Balances sweetness and amplifies the cinnamon and vanilla.
- Substitution: Use sea salt or reduce to 1/8 tsp for lower sodium.
- Vanilla Extract (1 1/2 tsp): Adds warmth and depth.
- Why it matters: Complements the cinnamon with a classic, sweet note.
- Substitution: Use vanilla bean paste or scrape half a vanilla bean for a gourmet touch.
- Cinnamon Oil or Cinnamon Extract (1/4 tsp): Brings the fiery kick.
- Why it matters: Provides a bold, spicy flavor that defines the “fire” in the ice cream.
- Substitution: Use 1 tsp ground cinnamon for a milder flavor, or increase cinnamon extract to 1/2 tsp for extra heat (use sparingly with oil, as it’s potent).
Pro Tip: Use cinnamon oil for a stronger, more intense flavor (available online or at specialty stores), but cinnamon extract works well and is easier to find. Pre-chill the ice cream maker bowl overnight for smooth churning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Fire and Ice Cream is a breeze with simple mixing and churning steps. Follow these for a perfect, spicy-sweet dessert:
- Mix the Ice Cream Base:
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups whipping cream, 2 cups half-and-half, 1 cup sugar, and 1/4 tsp kosher salt until the sugar fully dissolves, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp cinnamon oil (or cinnamon extract), mixing until well combined.
- Tip: Whisk thoroughly to ensure sugar dissolves completely; taste and adjust cinnamon cautiously, as it’s potent.
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 20-30 minutes, until thick and creamy (soft-serve consistency).
- Tip: Don’t overfill the ice cream maker (fill to 2/3 capacity to allow for expansion); churn in a cool environment to prevent melting.
- Freeze and Serve:
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight, freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Cover and freeze until firm, at least 2 hours.
- Scoop into bowls or cones, serving immediately for a soft texture or letting it soften for 5-10 minutes for easier scooping.
- Health Benefit: Dairy provides calcium, but the sugar and cream make this a rich treat to enjoy sparingly!
Serving Suggestion: Serve in chilled bowls with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair. Pair with coffee, hot tea, or a spiced chai for a cozy dessert experience!
Assembly: Building Your Ice Cream
This ice cream is all about achieving a creamy texture with a bold cinnamon kick. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Mix for Smoothness:
- Whisk the base until sugar dissolves fully to avoid graininess; ensure cinnamon is evenly distributed.
- Tip: Use a large bowl to prevent splashing; chill the mixture for 15 minutes before churning for faster results.
- Churn for Creaminess:
- Churn until the ice cream reaches a thick, soft-serve texture to ensure a smooth, scoopable result.
- Presentation Tip: Scrape down the ice cream maker’s sides during churning for even consistency.
- Freeze for Firmness:
- Transfer to a container promptly to avoid melting; smooth the top for a polished look.
- Presentation Tip: Serve with a cinnamon stick or a dusting of cinnamon sugar for a festive touch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Fire and Ice Cream is perfect for prepping ahead:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks; press plastic wrap on the surface to prevent ice crystals.
- Let soften for 5-10 minutes at room temperature before scooping for the best texture.
- Tip: Use a shallow container for easier scooping; avoid frequent thawing to maintain creaminess.
- Freezing:
- The recipe is designed for freezing, so no extra steps are needed.
- For longer storage, double-wrap the container in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Tip: Label with the date to track freshness.
- Make-Ahead:
- Prepare the ice cream base up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate covered until ready to churn.
- Churn and freeze ice cream up to 1 week ahead for best flavor and texture.
- Tip: Chill the base in advance to reduce churning time; whisk before pouring into the ice cream maker.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Try these fun twists on Fire and Ice Cream:
- Mexican Chocolate Fire: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper and 1 tbsp cocoa powder to the base for a spicy chocolate twist.
- Apple Pie Ice Cream: Swirl in 1/2 cup apple pie filling during the final minute of churning for a fall-inspired treat.
- Ginger Fire: Add 1/4 tsp ginger extract or 1 tsp grated fresh ginger to the base for extra spice.
- Vegan/Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and plant-based half-and-half; ensure cinnamon oil/extract is vegan-friendly.
- Chai-Spiced Fire: Add 1/4 tsp each of cardamom and nutmeg to the base for a chai-inspired flavor.
Quick Prep Tip: Use a blender to mix the base for faster sugar dissolving; measure cinnamon oil carefully, as it’s potent.
Conclusion
Your Fire and Ice Cream is ready to bring creamy, spicy joy to any occasion! With a rich, no-cook vanilla base and a fiery cinnamon kick, this dessert is perfect for summer evenings, holiday gatherings, or a unique treat. Whether you keep it classic or try a variation, you’re in for a creamy, bold ice cream that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Grab your ice cream maker, churn some fiery magic, and enjoy every smooth, spicy scoop. We’d love to see your creations—share your photos or tips in the comments or on social media! Happy churning!
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Fire and Ice Cream
Description
Imagine scooping into a velvety, rich ice cream that combines the smooth sweetness of vanilla with a bold, spicy burst of cinnamon, delivering a perfect balance of cool creaminess and fiery warmth
Ingredients
This recipe uses just six pantry staples for a bold, creamy ice cream. Here’s what you need and why each matters:
- Whipping Cream (2 cups): Creates a rich, creamy base.
- Why it matters: Provides the luxurious, smooth texture of the ice cream.
- Substitution: Use heavy cream (same amount) or coconut cream for dairy-free (flavor will shift slightly).
- Half-and-Half (2 cups): Balances creaminess and lightness.
- Why it matters: Adds richness without making the ice cream too heavy.
- Substitution: Use a mix of 1 cup whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream, or plant-based half-and-half for dairy-free.
- Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the ice cream.
- Why it matters: Dissolves into the cream for a smooth, sweet base.
- Substitution: Use a 1:1 sugar substitute like Swerve or reduce to 3/4 cup for less sweetness (may affect texture).
- Kosher Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances flavor.
- Why it matters: Balances sweetness and amplifies the cinnamon and vanilla.
- Substitution: Use sea salt or reduce to 1/8 tsp for lower sodium.
- Vanilla Extract (1 1/2 tsp): Adds warmth and depth.
- Why it matters: Complements the cinnamon with a classic, sweet note.
- Substitution: Use vanilla bean paste or scrape half a vanilla bean for a gourmet touch.
- Cinnamon Oil or Cinnamon Extract (1/4 tsp): Brings the fiery kick.
- Why it matters: Provides a bold, spicy flavor that defines the “fire” in the ice cream.
- Substitution: Use 1 tsp ground cinnamon for a milder flavor, or increase cinnamon extract to 1/2 tsp for extra heat (use sparingly with oil, as it’s potent).
Pro Tip: Use cinnamon oil for a stronger, more intense flavor (available online or at specialty stores), but cinnamon extract works well and is easier to find. Pre-chill the ice cream maker bowl overnight for smooth churning.
Instructions
- Mix the Ice Cream Base:
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups whipping cream, 2 cups half-and-half, 1 cup sugar, and 1/4 tsp kosher salt until the sugar fully dissolves, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp cinnamon oil (or cinnamon extract), mixing until well combined.
- Tip: Whisk thoroughly to ensure sugar dissolves completely; taste and adjust cinnamon cautiously, as it’s potent.
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 20-30 minutes, until thick and creamy (soft-serve consistency).
- Tip: Don’t overfill the ice cream maker (fill to 2/3 capacity to allow for expansion); churn in a cool environment to prevent melting.
- Freeze and Serve:
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight, freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Cover and freeze until firm, at least 2 hours.
- Scoop into bowls or cones, serving immediately for a soft texture or letting it soften for 5-10 minutes for easier scooping.
- Health Benefit: Dairy provides calcium, but the sugar and cream make this a rich treat to enjoy sparingly!
Serving Suggestion: Serve in chilled bowls with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair. Pair with coffee, hot tea, or a spiced chai for a cozy dessert experience!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought ice cream?
Yes! Soften 1 quart vanilla ice cream and stir in 1/4 tsp cinnamon oil or extract, then refreeze to skip the churning step.
2. Is this ice cream healthy?
Dairy provides calcium, but the sugar and cream make it a rich treat. Use a sugar substitute or low-fat cream for a lighter option, though texture may change.
3. Why is my ice cream icy?
Over-churning or insufficient freezing can cause iciness. Churn until soft-serve consistency and freeze promptly; store tightly to prevent ice crystals.
4. Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use coconut cream, plant-based half-and-half, and a vegan sugar substitute; ensure cinnamon oil/extract is vegan-friendly.
5. How long does the ice cream last?
Up to 2 weeks in the freezer, covered tightly. Scoop after softening slightly for the best texture.
6. Can I adjust the cinnamon flavor?
Yes! Start with 1/8 tsp cinnamon oil or extract and taste; add more in small increments, as it’s strong.