Burnt Sugar Ice Cream Recipe: A Rich, Caramel Delight

Indulge in the deep, complex flavors of caramel with this Burnt Sugar Ice Cream Recipe—a sophisticated twist on traditional vanilla that brings a rich, smoky sweetness to your dessert table. Burnt sugar, also known as caramelized sugar, delivers bold toffee-like notes and a warm, slightly bitter undertone that perfectly balances the creamy base of homemade ice cream. This gourmet treat is ideal for dinner parties, special occasions, or when you’re simply craving a uniquely flavored dessert that feels indulgent yet satisfying.

The recipe uses basic ingredients but transforms them into a luxurious frozen delight through a careful cooking process. With a custard-style base, this ice cream is ultra-smooth and packed with the rich aroma of caramel. Whether you’re an ice cream aficionado or a curious home cook, this burnt sugar creation is sure to impress.

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🕒 Recipe Summary:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Time: 30 minutes

• Resting Time (Chill + Freeze): 6–8 hours

• Total Time: 7–9 hours

• Course: Dessert

• Cuisine: American, French-inspired

• Servings: 6

• Calories per Serving: ~290 kcal

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🧂 Ingredients:

For the Burnt Sugar:

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

For the Ice Cream Base:

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream

• 4 large egg yolks

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for custard)

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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🍽️ Equipment:

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan

• Wooden spoon or heatproof silicone spatula

• Medium mixing bowl

• Whisk

• Ice bath setup (large bowl with ice and water)

• Fine-mesh strainer

• Ice cream maker (optional, but recommended)

• Airtight freezer-safe container

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🧑‍🍳 Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Burnt Sugar

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water. Do not stir.

2. Heat over medium-high until the mixture begins to boil. Watch closely—it will start to caramelize.

3. Swirl the pan occasionally (do not stir) to ensure even browning. The sugar will change from clear to golden to a deep amber.

4. As soon as it reaches a dark amber color (but not burned), remove from heat and carefully add 1 cup of the whole milk, stirring constantly. Be cautious—it may bubble vigorously.

5. Stir until the sugar dissolves into the milk and forms a smooth caramel sauce. Add 1/4 tsp salt and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Base

6. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks and 1/3 cup sugar until pale and creamy.

7. In a separate saucepan, combine remaining 1 cup milk and 1½ cups cream. Warm over medium heat until steaming (do not boil).

8. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

9. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon (170–175°F / 77–80°C).

10. Do not let it boil—otherwise, the eggs may curdle.

Step 3: Combine Custard with Burnt Sugar

11. Strain the cooked custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any curdled bits.

12. Stir in the burnt sugar mixture and vanilla extract until smooth.

13. Set the bowl into an ice bath and stir occasionally until it’s fully cooled.

14. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it against the surface of the custard to prevent skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Churn and Freeze

15. Once the base is fully chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).

16. For a soft-serve texture, enjoy immediately. For a firmer scoop, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 4–6 hours.

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🍨 Tips for Perfect Burnt Sugar Ice Cream

• Be precise with sugar caramelization: If it turns black, it’s truly burnt and bitter. Aim for a deep amber color.

• Use fresh ingredients: Especially when using eggs, as they form the base of your custard.

• No ice cream maker? Freeze the custard in a shallow container, stirring every 30 minutes for 3–4 hours to break up ice crystals.

• Flavor boosters: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or a splash of bourbon for an extra depth of flavor.

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🥄 Serving Suggestions

• Top with a drizzle of salted caramel or dark chocolate sauce.

• Serve alongside roasted bananas, grilled peaches, or poached pears.

• Pair with a crunchy almond biscotti or buttery shortbread.

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🧾 Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.)

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and exact portions used.

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Final Thoughts

This Burnt Sugar Ice Cream Recipe is a sophisticated dessert that combines the comforting richness of cream with the complex notes of burnt caramel. It’s a fantastic make-ahead treat for guests or a weekend project for when you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen. With its silky texture and deep flavor, this ice cream is anything but ordinary—proof that with just a few ingredients, you can create something extraordinary.