Sweet Corn Ice Cream Recipe: A Summer Delight

Name: Sweet Corn Ice Cream Recipe: A Summer Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 270 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn (husked); 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 5 large egg yolks; 1 tbsp vanilla extract

270 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in the creamy, unique taste of sweet corn ice cream with this custard-based recipe that highlights the natural flavour of corn.

Prep

20 min

Cook

10 min

Total

270 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Sweet corn ice cream is an unexpected yet delightful treat that captures the essence of summer. The rich, creamy custard base is infused with the natural sweetness of corn, creating a dessert that's both refreshing and indulgent. By steeping the corn cobs, this recipe extracts maximum flavour, ensuring that each bite is a celebration of corn's inherent sweetness. Whether you enjoy it on its own, or pair it with a slice of pie, this ice cream is sure to become a favourite.

Instructions

Prepare corn

Cut kernels off the cobs and place in a saucepan. Add cobs, cream, and milk to the saucepan.

Pro tip: Using a sharp knife makes kernel removal easier and safer.

Steep corn

Heat the mixture over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 1 hour.

Pro tip: Steeping allows the corn flavour to infuse the cream.

Make custard

Remove cobs, then blend the mixture. Strain through a fine sieve back into the saucepan.

Pro tip: Straining ensures a smooth custard.

Temper egg yolks

Whisk egg yolks with sugar. Gradually add a small amount of the warm mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly.

Pro tip: Tempering prevents the yolks from curdling.

Cook custard

Return the tempered yolk mixture to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes.

Pro tip: Do not let the custard boil to avoid curdling.

Chill and churn

Stir in vanilla extract. Cool the custard, then refrigerate until cold. Churn in an ice cream maker following manufacturer’s instructions.

Pro tip: Chill the mixture thoroughly for best churning results.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, seasonal corn for the best flavour.
Straining the custard ensures a smooth texture.
For a no-churn version, use whipped cream for a light texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make sweet corn ice cream?

Sweet corn ice cream is made by steeping corn cobs in a custard base, blending, straining, and then churning in an ice cream maker.

Can you make corn ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes, you can make a no-churn version by folding sweetened condensed milk into whipped cream and adding the corn mixture.

What makes sweet corn ice cream taste like corn?

Steeping the corn cobs in the cream and milk base infuses the ice cream with a natural corn flavour.

How long should you steep corn for ice cream?

Steep the corn mixture for about 1 hour to fully extract the flavour.

What is the best way to store homemade ice cream?

Store homemade ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks for optimal freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve sweet corn ice cream in bowls or cones for a refreshing summer dessert. Pair with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. The ice cream can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy it whenever the craving strikes.