Chocolate and cardamom ice cream is a perfect marriage of the intensity of chocolate and the warm, spicy aroma of cardamom . Add to that some golden hazelnut pieces , and you have a dessert that's rich, spicy, and crunchy all at once. It's an ideal recipe for chocolate lovers who want to experiment with bold and exotic flavors.
Ingredients for chocolate and cardamom ice cream:
- 200 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa minimum)
- 100 ml full cream (or vegetable cream for a lactose-free option)
- 200 ml of milk (or almond milk)
- 1 tablespoon of cardamom powder (or 3 to 4 crushed cardamom pods)
- 2 tablespoons of maple syrup (or sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Ingredients for the golden hazelnut pieces:
- 100 g whole shelled hazelnuts
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of water
Preparation of chocolate and cardamom ice cream:
- Cardamom infusion :
In a small saucepan, heat the milk with the cardamom powder (or crushed cardamom pods). Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the cardamom to release its full aroma. Remove from the heat and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain to remove the cardamom pods, if necessary. - Melt the chocolate :
In another saucepan or in a double boiler, gently melt the dark chocolate, stirring regularly to prevent it from burning. - To combine the cream and chocolate :
In a bowl, combine the cream, cardamom-infused milk, maple syrup (or sugar), and vanilla extract. Stir in the melted dark chocolate and whisk well until smooth and homogeneous. - Freezing :
Pour the mixture into the Ninja Creami and leave to freeze for at least 24 hours. - Ice cream transformation :
Once the mixture is completely frozen, use the "Ice Cream" mode of the Ninja Creami to obtain a soft and creamy texture.
Preparation of golden hazelnuts:
- To caramelize the hazelnuts :
In a small pan, heat the sugar and water over medium heat until the sugar begins to caramelize. Add the whole hazelnuts and stir well to coat them in caramel. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. - Let cool :
Spread the caramelized hazelnuts on a sheet of parchment paper to cool. Once the caramel has hardened, break the hazelnuts into small pieces.
Dessert assembly:
- Serving the ice cream :
Serve the chocolate and cardamom ice cream in small glasses or bowls. - Add the golden hazelnut pieces :
Generously sprinkle the golden hazelnut pieces over the ice cream for a crunchy and sweet contrast. - Optional decoration :
For an even more indulgent touch, add dark chocolate shavings or sprinkle an extra pinch of cardamom on top.
Tips for serving:
- Contrast of textures : The smooth sweetness of the ice cream blends perfectly with the crunch of the caramelized hazelnuts, creating a complete sensory experience.
- Perfect pairings : This ice cream pairs very well with a cup of coffee or spiced tea , for even more richness in flavors.
Why is this recipe special?
The combination of cardamom and dark chocolate creates a blend of flavors that is both comforting and exotic. The cardamom, with its slightly spicy and lemony taste, balances the bitterness of the chocolate, while the golden hazelnuts add a touch of sweetness and crunch. It's an elegant and original dessert that surprises with its contrasting flavors and textures.
Conclusion :
ice cream with golden hazelnut pieces is a sophisticated dessert, perfect for those who love bold and rich flavors. Thanks to Ninja Creami , you'll achieve a perfectly creamy texture, while the caramelized hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness to every bite. It's the ideal recipe to impress your guests or treat yourself to a unique and indulgent creation.
