Ice cream has long been a favorite dessert for those seeking a creamy, refreshing treat. But imagine if we could take this classic dessert to a new level, one that blends deep, roasted flavors with an indulgent texture. The Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle does just that. This unique ice cream combines the bold and nutty flavor of toasted black sesame with the velvety smoothness of a custard-based ice cream. Finished off with a drizzle of golden honey, this dessert offers the perfect balance of richness and floral sweetness. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or someone who simply loves to experiment with new flavors, this ice cream recipe will certainly impress.
What is Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle?
Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle is a rich, creamy dessert that features black sesame seeds, a popular ingredient in East Asian cuisine. The ice cream base is made using the classic custard technique, where egg yolks are combined with milk and cream to create a smooth, velvety texture. The star of the show, however, is the black sesame paste, which brings a distinct, toasty flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the ice cream.
To elevate the experience, the ice cream is served with a honey drizzle, which adds a golden touch of floral sweetness to the deep, nutty flavor of the sesame. This recipe is perfect for those looking for something different from the traditional ice cream flavors and a delightful fusion of boldness and elegance.
Origin of Black Sesame Ice Cream
Black sesame has a long history in Asian culinary traditions. Used in both savory dishes and desserts, black sesame is known for its deep, roasted flavor and rich, nutty taste. In East Asia, black sesame is often used in sweets such as sesame paste buns and mochi fillings.
The modern version of Black Sesame Ice Cream likely originated in Japan, where it became a popular flavor in many ice cream parlors and restaurants. The combination of roasted black sesame seeds with cream and sugar creates a dessert that is both unique and comforting. Over time, this recipe has spread across the globe, finding a place in many fusion-style restaurants and home kitchens alike.
Ingredients for Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle (Serves 6)
For the Ice Cream Base:
- Black sesame seeds – ½ cup (toasted)
- Whole milk – 1 cup
- Heavy cream – 2 cups
- Granulated sugar – ¾ cup
- Egg yolks – 4 large
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
- Pinch of salt
For the Honey Drizzle:
- Honey – ¼ cup
- Water – 1 tbsp
- Optional: splash of orange blossom water or lemon juice for an extra layer of flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
Creating this indulgent Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle requires a bit of patience, but the results are definitely worth it. Below is a detailed breakdown of each step:
1. Toast the Sesame Seeds
Begin by toasting the black sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat. Toast them for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to prevent burning. You’ll know the sesame seeds are ready when they begin to pop and release a fragrant, toasty aroma. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.
2. Make Sesame Paste
Once the sesame seeds have cooled, transfer them to a food processor. Blend the toasted seeds into a fine paste. Add a splash of milk to help smooth out the mixture and achieve a creamy consistency. This sesame paste will be the base for the ice cream’s signature nutty flavor.
3. Prepare the Custard Base
Next, in a saucepan, heat the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to steam (but not boil). While waiting for the milk and cream mixture, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt in a separate bowl until the mixture becomes pale and slightly fluffy.
Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture to temper the eggs. Do this slowly, stirring constantly to avoid curdling the eggs. Once fully combined, return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until it thickens slightly (around 170°F or 77°C). This step ensures that your custard is smooth and thickened without scrambling the eggs.
4. Combine and Chill
Once your custard base is thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the sesame paste along with vanilla extract. For a smoother texture, you may want to strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps or impurities. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours to ensure the mixture is cold and ready for churning.
5. Churn the Ice Cream
After chilling, transfer the custard mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will turn the mixture into a creamy, thick ice cream. Once the ice cream reaches the desired consistency, transfer it to a container and freeze it for 2-4 hours to firm up before serving.
6. Make the Honey Drizzle
While the ice cream is freezing, prepare the honey drizzle by simmering the honey and water in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens slightly. For additional flavor, you can add a splash of orange blossom water or a bit of lemon juice to the drizzle. Allow the drizzle to cool before serving.
7. Serve and Garnish
When ready to serve, scoop out the ice cream and drizzle generously with the honey drizzle. You can further enhance the presentation by garnishing with crushed sesame brittle or edible flowers, if desired. These add a nice crunchy texture and vibrant color to the dish.
Variations of Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle
While the recipe above provides a delicious base for the ice cream, there are several ways you can customize the flavor and texture. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Charcoal Black Sesame Ice Cream
For a striking visual effect, add charcoal powder to the ice cream base. This will not only deepen the color but also add an earthy depth to the flavor. Charcoal powder pairs beautifully with the rich sesame taste and can elevate the overall experience.
2. Black Tahini or Miso Caramel Swirl
For an extra layer of umami richness, consider swirling in some black tahini or miso caramel into the ice cream before churning. These ingredients will enhance the savory notes of the black sesame and give the ice cream a more complex flavor profile.
3. Pair with Roasted Figs or Poached Pears
To make your dessert even more refined, serve the ice cream with a side of roasted figs or poached pears. The sweetness and soft texture of the fruit complement the rich, nutty ice cream beautifully.
4. Matcha Shortbread Crumbles
For an additional crunch and flavor contrast, top the ice cream with matcha shortbread crumbles. The slightly bitter taste of matcha and the buttery texture of shortbread provide a perfect balance to the creamy ice cream.
FAQs about Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle
Q1: Can I make the ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe. After chilling the custard, pour it into a shallow dish and freeze. Every 30 minutes, take the dish out of the freezer and stir the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals. Continue this process until the ice cream reaches the desired consistency.
Q2: Can I make the honey drizzle in advance?
Yes, you can make the honey drizzle up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Q3: Can I use other types of seeds instead of black sesame?
While black sesame provides a unique flavor, you could experiment with white sesame or even other nutty seeds like pumpkin seeds. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture will differ slightly.
Q4: How long can I store the ice cream?
The ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. However, for the best texture, try to consume it within a week.
Conclusion
Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and elegant textures. The deep, nutty notes of black sesame, combined with the creaminess of the ice cream base and the floral sweetness of honey, create a truly indulgent treat. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it on a quiet afternoon, this ice cream is guaranteed to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a homemade dessert that’s as sophisticated as it is delicious!
Print
Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle: A Nutty and Velvety Masterpiece
- Total Time: 6 hours (including churning and freezing time)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle is a rich, creamy dessert that features black sesame seeds, a popular ingredient in East Asian cuisine. The ice cream base is made using the classic custard technique, where egg yolks are combined with milk and cream to create a smooth, velvety texture. The star of the show, however, is the black sesame paste, which brings a distinct, toasty flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the ice cream.
Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base:
-
Black sesame seeds – ½ cup (toasted)
-
Whole milk – 1 cup
-
Heavy cream – 2 cups
-
Granulated sugar – ¾ cup
-
Egg yolks – 4 large
-
Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
-
Pinch of salt
For the Honey Drizzle:
-
Honey – ¼ cup
-
Water – 1 tbsp
-
Optional: splash of orange blossom water or lemon juice for an extra layer of flavor
Instructions
Begin by toasting the black sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat. Toast them for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to prevent burning. You’ll know the sesame seeds are ready when they begin to pop and release a fragrant, toasty aroma. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.
Once the sesame seeds have cooled, transfer them to a food processor. Blend the toasted seeds into a fine paste. Add a splash of milk to help smooth out the mixture and achieve a creamy consistency. This sesame paste will be the base for the ice cream’s signature nutty flavor.
Next, in a saucepan, heat the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to steam (but not boil). While waiting for the milk and cream mixture, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt in a separate bowl until the mixture becomes pale and slightly fluffy.
Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture to temper the eggs. Do this slowly, stirring constantly to avoid curdling the eggs. Once fully combined, return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until it thickens slightly (around 170°F or 77°C). This step ensures that your custard is smooth and thickened without scrambling the eggs.
Once your custard base is thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the sesame paste along with vanilla extract. For a smoother texture, you may want to strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps or impurities. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours to ensure the mixture is cold and ready for churning.
After chilling, transfer the custard mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will turn the mixture into a creamy, thick ice cream. Once the ice cream reaches the desired consistency, transfer it to a container and freeze it for 2-4 hours to firm up before serving.
While the ice cream is freezing, prepare the honey drizzle by simmering the honey and water in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens slightly. For additional flavor, you can add a splash of orange blossom water or a bit of lemon juice to the drizzle. Allow the drizzle to cool before serving.
When ready to serve, scoop out the ice cream and drizzle generously with the honey drizzle. You can further enhance the presentation by garnishing with crushed sesame brittle or edible flowers, if desired. These add a nice crunchy texture and vibrant color to the dish.
Notes
For extra crunch and contrast, sprinkle roasted black sesame seeds or crushed caramelized nuts on top before serving. A drizzle of warm honey or even a touch of miso caramel can elevate the flavors beautifully. Serve in a waffle cone or mochi bowl for a fun twist!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churned
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Keywords: Black Sesame Ice Cream with Honey Drizzle