London Fog Ice Cream

If you’re looking for a delightful way to cool down this summer, I’ve got just the treat for you: London Fog Ice Cream! Inspired by the cozy warmth of a classic London Fog tea latte, this creamy, no-churn dessert is a dream come true for Earl Grey fans. It brings together the soothing flavors of bergamot-infused tea and luscious creaminess that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting family gatherings, this ice cream is sure to impress!

This recipe is not just easy to whip up; it’s also a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, who doesn’t love an ice cream that tastes like a warm hug? Let’s dive into why this London Fog Ice Cream will become your new favorite dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only a few simple steps, you can have this delicious treat ready in no time!
• No Churn Required: No ice cream maker? No problem! This recipe is completely no-churn.
• Tea-Infused Goodness: The aromatic Earl Grey tea adds a unique flavor that sets this ice cream apart from regular vanilla.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will love scooping up this creamy dessert.
• Make-ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance so you can enjoy it whenever the craving strikes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our London Fog Ice Cream. These pantry staples will help create that rich, creamy texture and delightful flavor we all crave!

For the Ice Cream Base

• 2 cups Heavy whipping cream (35%)
• 2 teaspoons Earl Grey tea
• 1 cup Sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Variations

One of the best parts about making ice cream at home is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
• Infuse with Lavender: Add dried lavender flowers for an extra floral note that complements the tea beautifully.
• Creamy Coconut Spin: Substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical vibe.
• Fruit Swirl: Incorporate your favorite fruit puree for a fruity flavor explosion.

How to Make London Fog Ice Cream

Step 1: Steep the Tea

In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and loose Earl Grey tea. This step is crucial because steeping allows the flavors of the tea to infuse into the cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally, allowing those beautiful aromas to fill your kitchen.

Step 2: Chill It Down

After simmering, remove the cream from heat and let it steep for an additional two minutes. This extra time enhances the flavor even more! Once done, strain out those tea leaves and discard them. Pour your creamy mixture into a mason jar and refrigerate until chilled completely—about two hours.

Step 3: Whip It Up

Once your mixture is nice and cold, grab a large bowl and beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form—this should take about 4-6 minutes. Whipping air into that heavy cream creates lightness in our ice cream.

Step 4: Fold in Sweetness

Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract using either a spoon or spatula. This step is important as it adds sweetness and helps achieve that smooth texture. Be careful not to deflate your whipped cream; we want it light and airy!

Step 5: Freeze to Perfection

Finally, transfer your ice cream mixture into your freezer container. Cover it well and place it in the freezer for about four hours or until it’s completely set. Patience is key here—the wait will be worth it when you take that first scoop!

Enjoy making this delightful London Fog Ice Cream—it’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your dessert repertoire!

Pro Tips for Making London Fog Ice Cream

Creating your own London Fog Ice Cream is a delightful adventure, and a few simple tips can elevate your homemade treat to new heights!

• Use high-quality ingredients: Choosing fresh heavy cream and premium Earl Grey tea will enhance the flavor profile, ensuring a richer and more aromatic ice cream experience.

• Allow proper steeping time: Steeping the tea in the cream for just the right amount of time extracts rich flavors. Too little time may result in a weak taste, while too much could introduce bitterness.

• Chill thoroughly before whipping: Chilling the cream mixture completely ensures that it whips up beautifully, resulting in a light and airy texture that’s essential for ice cream.

• Fold gently: When combining the whipped cream with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla, use gentle folding motions. This helps maintain the airiness of the whipped cream, which contributes to a creamy texture.

• Be patient with freezing: Allowing the ice cream to freeze fully for at least 4 hours gives it the perfect scoopable consistency. Rushing this step can lead to a slushy texture.

How to Serve London Fog Ice Cream

Serving your London Fog Ice Cream can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this indulgent treat that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Crushed lavender: A sprinkle of crushed lavender not only adds an elegant touch but also enhances the floral notes of Earl Grey tea.
• Fresh berries: Raspberries or blueberries provide a burst of acidity that balances out the creamy sweetness of the ice cream.

Side Dishes

• Shortbread cookies: These buttery treats complement the creamy texture of the ice cream perfectly, adding a delightful crunch.
• Berry compote: A warm or chilled berry compote drizzled over the ice cream introduces a fruity contrast that brightens each bite.
• Chocolate shavings: For chocolate lovers, adding dark chocolate shavings provides a rich depth that pairs beautifully with the tea flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your London Fog Ice Cream will surely become a favorite! Enjoy every spoonful of this decadent dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

This London Fog Ice Cream is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time and store it, ensuring you always have a delightful dessert ready to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
• Place a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container for extra protection.
• Enjoy your homemade ice cream within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• If you’re making this recipe ahead of time, allow it to freeze completely for about 4 hours or until set.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the ice cream for up to 1 month.
• Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to soften it slightly.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this ice cream, but if it becomes too hard after being stored, simply leave it out at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
• Use a warm scoop or spoon to help serve your delicious London Fog Ice Cream more easily.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making London Fog Ice Cream!

Can I use different types of tea for London Fog Ice Cream?

Absolutely! While Earl Gray is classic, you can experiment with other tea flavors like chamomile or chai to create your unique version.

How do I ensure my London Fog Ice Cream has the best flavor?

For the richest flavor, allow the tea leaves to steep in the heavy cream long enough, and make sure you chill the mixture thoroughly before whipping.

Is London Fog Ice Cream suitable for special diets?

Yes! This recipe is free from pork, alcohol, and animal-derived gelatin. It’s a delightful treat that caters to many dietary preferences!

How long will my London Fog Ice Cream last in the freezer?

If stored properly in an airtight container, your London Fog Ice Cream should last for about 2-3 weeks while maintaining its best quality.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll love making this creamy and fragrant London Fog Ice Cream as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of Earl Gray tea in a cool dessert form. Whether it’s a sunny day treat or a cozy evening snack, I invite you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. Happy scooping!