Description

Imagine scooping into a velvety maple ice cream, its rich, sweet flavor studded with shards of smoky, spicy bacon brittle that add a satisfying crunch. Sounds like a dessert that’s both indulgent and adventurous, right? That’s exactly what Maple-Bacon Crunch Ice Cream delivers! Rated 4.6 stars from 13 reviews, this easy recipe yields 1 quart (about 8 servings) and transforms pantry staples into a unique treat perfect for summer gatherings, foodie parties, or a daring dessert night.

Ingredients

This recipe uses pantry staples and bold flavors for a unique ice cream. Here’s what you need and why each matters:

Ice Cream

Large Egg Yolks (3): Thicken the custard.
- Why it matters: Create a rich, velvety ice cream base.
- Substitution: No direct substitute; for egg-free, use store-bought vanilla ice cream and mix in maple syrup.
Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the custard.
- Why it matters: Balances maple syrup’s intensity and ensures a smooth texture.
- Substitution: Use a 1:1 sugar substitute like Swerve or reduce to 3 tbsp for less sweetness.
Pinch of Salt: Enhances flavor.
- Why it matters: Balances sweetness and boosts maple flavor.
- Substitution: Use kosher or sea salt; adjust to taste.
Whole Milk (1 cup): Forms the custard base.
- Why it matters: Adds creaminess without overpowering richness.
- Substitution: Use plant-based milk (e.g., oat, almond) for dairy-free, though texture may vary.
Maple Syrup (1 cup, preferably grade B): Adds signature flavor.
- Why it matters: Provides deep, robust sweetness; grade B (or dark) offers richer flavor.
- Substitution: Use grade A dark maple syrup or honey (flavor will differ).
Heavy Cream (2 cups): Creates a creamy texture.
- Why it matters: Ensures a luscious, scoopable ice cream.
- Substitution: Use coconut cream for dairy-free (adds coconut flavor).

Bacon Brittle

Unsalted Butter (1 tbsp, plus more for baking sheet): Adds richness and prevents sticking.
- Why it matters: Enhances brittle’s flavor and ensures easy removal.
- Substitution: Use vegan butter for dairy-free.
Smoked Bacon (3 strips, preferably Nueske’s): Adds smoky crunch.
- Why it matters: Provides savory contrast and brittle texture.
- Substitution: Use turkey bacon, vegan bacon, or skip for vegetarian (replace with toasted nuts).
Sugar (1 cup): Forms the brittle base.
- Why it matters: Melts into a hard, crunchy candy to hold bacon.
- Substitution: Use brown sugar for a deeper flavor (brittle may be softer).
Baking Soda (1/2 tsp): Lightens the brittle.
- Why it matters: Creates a slightly airy texture for easier breaking.
- Substitution: No direct substitute; skip for denser brittle.
Chipotle Chile Powder (1/8 tsp or pinch of cayenne): Adds a spicy kick.
- Why it matters: Enhances savory flavor with subtle heat.
- Substitution: Use smoked paprika or skip for no spice.

Pro Tip: Use grade B or dark maple syrup for bold flavor (available at grocery stores or online). Cook bacon until very crisp for the best brittle texture.

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Instructions

Making Maple-Bacon Crunch Ice Cream involves crafting a custard, making brittle, and churning. Follow these for a perfect dessert:

Make the Maple Custard:
- In a medium bowl, whisk 3 large egg yolks, 1/4 cup sugar, and a pinch of salt until pale yellow, about 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer to a medium saucepan and whisk in 1 cup whole milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of the spoon (just below simmering, about 160-170°F), 5-7 minutes. Do not boil.
- Stir in 1 cup maple syrup, then transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until cold, about 30 minutes.
- Tip: Stir constantly to prevent curdling; use a thermometer for accuracy. Cool in an ice bath to speed up chilling.
Make the Bacon Brittle:
- Butter a rimmed baking sheet and set aside.
- In a medium skillet, cook 3 strips smoked bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towels to drain, cool completely, then finely chop.
- In a small saucepan, cook 1 cup sugar over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until it melts and turns golden, about 4 minutes. (If lumps form, remove from heat and stir until smooth.)
- Continue cooking, stirring, until light amber, about 2 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp unsalted butter. Carefully stir in 1/2 tsp baking soda, then the chopped bacon and 1/8 tsp chipotle chile powder (or cayenne).
- Pour onto the buttered baking sheet and spread thinly. Let cool until set, about 15 minutes.
- Break into bite-size pieces, then smash about one-third of the brittle into shards using a meat mallet or heavy skillet. Reserve remaining brittle in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Tip: Work quickly when adding baking soda (it foams); spread brittle thinly for easier breaking.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- Stir 2 cups heavy cream into the chilled maple custard.
- Churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 20-30 minutes, until thick and creamy (soft-serve consistency).
- During the last minute of churning, add the bacon brittle shards through the feed tube.
- Tip: Chill the ice cream maker bowl overnight; add brittle shards slowly to distribute evenly.
Freeze and Serve:
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight, freezer-safe container, smoothing the top.
- Freeze until firm, at least 2 hours.
- Scoop into bowls or cones, optionally topping with reserved bacon brittle pieces.
- Health Benefit: Bacon provides protein, dairy offers calcium, but the sugar and cream make this a rich treat to enjoy sparingly!

Serving Suggestion: Serve in chilled bowls with extra bacon brittle crumbles or a drizzle of maple syrup for flair. Pair with coffee, a stout beer, or a glass of bourbon for a bold dessert experience!