| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 50 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 20g | 12g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 25g | 3g | 5g | 0.2g |
Who doesn’t love a good surprise? Especially when that surprise comes in the form of the most delightful fusion dessert – the Chocolate and Peppermint Gum Leaf Ice Cream. Imagine the bold flavor of rich cocoa paired with a hint of refreshing peppermint, meticulously enveloped in velvety ice cream. A combination that seems out of the ordinary but has a flavor so divine, it’s guaranteed to awaken your taste buds in the most enchanting way!
Let me take you on a culinary journey, where we will explore the roots of this incredibly delicious ice cream recipe, which has a fine essence of Cuban influence, with a touch of the Spanish love for creativity and festivity in dishes. When my Spanish roots whisper tales of indulgence in chocolate-infused delicacies, my Cuban feel proposes an enticing twist with peppermint gum leaves. It’s truly a beautiful dance of flavors.
Inspiration and Origins
Curious about what this surprising blend reminds me of? This decadent dessert bears similarity to the classic mint-chocolate chip ice cream, but with a more sophisticated and nuanced flavor profile. The peppermint gum leaf provides a unique, aromatic twist, rendering this dessert fresh and invigorating, yet comforting and satisfying all at once.
It’s not uncommon to pair this delectable ice cream with dishes like sweet empanadas or, if you’re feeling adventurous, as an exciting side to spicy Caribbean finger foods – think jerk chicken skewers or spiced tamales.
Health Benefits and Joyful Moments
Did you know that this scrumptious recipe also packs some health benefits? Yes, you heard right!
Studies show that dark chocolate, present in our recipe as unsweetened cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips, is a rich source of antioxidants and can help reduce heart disease risk. Meanwhile, peppermint has been associated with aiding digestion and reducing headaches.
And, of course, there’s the undeniable mental health benefit of tucking into a bowl of homemade ice cream on a lazy summer afternoon. The pure joy, the shared laughter, the delightful familiarity, and the luxury of indulgence – they are all part of the marvelous package this recipe delivers.
So why do I love the Chocolate and Peppermint Gum Leaf Ice Cream recipe? For its ability to blend the comfort of the familiar with the thrill of the exotic. For the joy it brings to the table and the health benefits it subtly packs. And most importantly, for the love and celebration of my Cuban and Spanish heritage that it symbolizes.
Are you ready to embark on this delightful culinary journey with me?
What You’ll Need
<li>2 cups of whole milk</li>
<li>1 cup of heavy cream</li>
<li>3/4 cup of sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder</li>
<li>1 teaspoon of vanilla extract</li>
<li>1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips</li>
<li>1 tablespoon of peppermint extract</li>
<li>6 fresh peppermint gum leaves</li>
</ul>
Method
<h3>Step One</h3>
<p>In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the 2 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 3/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and cocoa are fully dissolved.</p>
<h3>Step Two</h3>
<p>Once the mixture is heated and well combined, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of peppermint extract to the mixture. Stir well to combine.</p>
<h3>Step Three</h3>
<p>Chop the semi-sweet chocolate chips finely. Then add them to the saucepan and stir until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.</p>
<h3>Step Four</h3>
<p>Tear the 6 fresh peppermint gum leaves into small pieces and add them to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. This will infuse the ice cream mixture with a hint of natural peppermint flavor.</p>
<h3>Step Five</h3>
<p>Allow the ice cream mixture to cool completely, then transfer it to an ice cream maker. Churn the mixture according to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific ice cream maker model.</p>
<h3>Step Six</h3>
<p>Once the ice cream has finished churning, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Let the ice cream freeze for at least two hours, or until it’s firm enough to scoop. Now you can enjoy your homemade Chocolate and Peppermint Gum Leaf Ice Cream!</p>
