Pixie Tangerine Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Recipe

Heavy cream: Provides the rich and creamy base for the ice cream.

Whole milk: Adds a lighter texture to balance the heaviness of the cream.

Sugar: Sweetens the ice cream and helps with the texture.

Vanilla bean: Adds a deep, aromatic vanilla flavor that is more complex than extract.

Pixie tangerine juice: Infuses the ice cream with a bright, citrusy flavor.

Pixie tangerine zest: Enhances the citrus flavor and adds a bit of texture.

When incorporating the vanilla bean, make sure to split it lengthwise and use the back of a knife to scrape out the seeds. This ensures you get the maximum flavor from the vanilla. Additionally, after adding the seeds to the mixture, don't discard the pod. Letting the pod steep in the cream mixture while it churns in the ice cream maker will infuse even more depth of flavor. For an extra burst of citrus, finely grate the pixie tangerine zest directly over the mixture to capture all the essential oils.

• heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a similar rich and creamy texture, making it a good dairy-free alternative.

• whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a lighter, dairy-free option that can still provide a creamy base for the ice cream.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile to the ice cream.

• vanilla bean - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract can provide a similar vanilla flavor, though it may be less intense than using a whole vanilla bean.

• pixie tangerine juice - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice can offer a similar citrus flavor, though it may be slightly less sweet and more acidic.

• pixie tangerine zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can provide a similar citrus aroma and flavor, making it a good alternative.

• Ensure the ice cream is completely churned and has reached a soft-serve consistency before transferring it to a storage container.
• Use an airtight container to store the ice cream. This helps prevent ice crystals from forming and keeps the ice cream fresh.
• For best results, use a shallow, flat container. This allows the ice cream to freeze more evenly and makes it easier to scoop.
• Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. This minimizes air exposure and helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date you made the ice cream. Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks for optimal flavor and texture.
• Store the ice cream in the coldest part of your freezer, typically the back. Avoid placing it near the door where temperature fluctuations are more common.
• When ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. This makes it easier to scoop and enhances the creamy texture.
• If you notice any ice crystals forming on the surface, scrape them off before serving to maintain the best quality.
• For long-term storage, consider dividing the ice cream into smaller portions. This reduces the number of times the container is opened, helping to maintain the ice cream's integrity.
• Avoid refreezing ice cream that has fully melted, as this can lead to a grainy texture. Instead, enjoy it as a milkshake or in a different dessert.

• First, remove the Pixie Tangerine Vanilla Bean Ice Cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes. This will soften it slightly, making it easier to scoop.

• If you need to speed up the process, place the container in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This will gently soften the ice cream without melting it too much.

• For a more even texture, you can use a microwave. Place the ice cream in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on the lowest power setting for 10-15 seconds. Stir gently and repeat if necessary, but be cautious not to overheat.

• Alternatively, you can use a warm water bath. Fill a large bowl with warm water (not hot) and place the container of ice cream in the water for a few minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even softening.

• If you prefer a creamier texture, transfer the softened ice cream to a mixing bowl and use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip it for a few seconds. This will incorporate air and make it more scoopable.

• Once the ice cream reaches your desired consistency, serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of pixie tangerine and vanilla bean.

• If you have any leftovers after reheating, return them to the freezer promptly to maintain the best texture and flavor.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine and whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar.

• Whisk: A utensil used to mix the ingredients thoroughly and ensure the sugar is dissolved.

• Knife: A sharp tool used to split the vanilla bean.

• Spoon: A utensil used to scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean pod.

• Measuring cups: Tools used to measure out the heavy cream, whole milk, and pixie tangerine juice accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure the pixie tangerine zest.

• Ice cream maker: A machine used to churn the mixture into ice cream according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Container: A storage container used to transfer the churned ice cream and freeze it for at least 2 hours before serving.

Pre-mix ingredients: Measure and combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar the night before to save time.

Use a microplane: A microplane makes zesting the pixie tangerine faster and more efficient.

Chill the mixture: Chill the ice cream mixture in the fridge for an hour before churning to speed up the freezing process.

Prep the vanilla bean: Split and scrape the vanilla bean ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch and store extra ice cream for future use.