Gingerbread ice cream is a true winter treat, perfect to accompany a festive dessert or to enjoy on its own. However, since not everyone is familiar with gingerbread, I'm offering some alternatives. If you're in Germany, think of Lebkuchen , those delicious little spiced Christmas cookies, or in Spain, polvorones for a slightly different but equally festive touch. And don't worry, I'll guide you through recreating these warm flavors wherever you are!
Ingredients :
- 100 ml full cream (or vegetable cream for a lactose-free option)
- 200 ml of milk (or almond milk)
- 2 tablespoons of honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 pinch of ground cloves (optional)
- 100g of crumbled gingerbread (or Lebkuchen , or any other small spiced Christmas cake)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Preparation :
- Mix the liquid ingredients :
In a bowl, combine the cream, milk, and honey (or maple syrup) until well blended. The honey adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spices. - Add the spices :
Stir in the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and if you like, a pinch of cloves. These spices are key to giving this ice cream that authentic, comforting Christmas taste. - Add the gingerbread (or alternative) :
Finely crumble the gingerbread , Lebkuchen , or other spiced cake, then add it to the mixture. The pieces will infuse the ice cream and give it that deliciously rich texture. - Freezing :
Pour the mixture into your Ninja Creami and freeze for at least 24 hours. - Ice Cream Transformation :
After freezing, use the "Ice Cream" mode on your Ninja Creami to achieve a smooth texture. If you want larger pieces of gingerbread in your ice cream, feel free to add a few more pieces after the first cycle and restart the "Mix-in" mode.
Tips for serving:
- Presentation : Serve this ice cream in small bowls and decorate with extra gingerbread crumbs or a few hazelnut pieces to add crunch.
- Perfect pairings : This ice cream goes wonderfully with a warm apple pie, or even with hot chocolate for extra comfort.
Why is this recipe special?
The combination of warm spices and crumbled gingerbread creates a rich and comforting dessert that instantly transports you to the holiday spirit. Whether you use gingerbread, Lebkuchen , or another local alternative, this ice cream will add a festive touch to any winter meal.
Conclusion :
Gingerbread ice cream ( or its version with spiced Christmas cookies) is the perfect dessert for the season. Easy to make with ingredients you can adapt depending on what you have on hand, it will delight all lovers of spiced flavors and winter treats. One bite, and you're transported to the heart of the holidays, no matter where you are!
