Homemade flavor extracts are perfect for customizing your ice creams and sorbets with the Ninja CREAMi. By making your own extracts, you can control the quality of the ingredients and achieve intense, authentic, and natural flavors. Here's how to create vanilla, mint, coffee, and many other flavor extracts for unique and refined ice creams!
1. Homemade Vanilla Extract: The Essential
Homemade vanilla extract is easy to make and keeps for a long time. By using real vanilla beans, you'll get a much richer and more complex flavor than with commercial extracts.
- Ingredients : 3 to 4 vanilla pods, 250 ml of vodka (or rum for a sweeter taste).
- Preparation : Split the vanilla pods in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Place them in a jar with the pods and pour in the alcohol. Let it infuse for at least 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar regularly. The longer the extract infuses, the stronger it will be.
- Usage : A few drops in vanilla or chocolate ice cream will be enough to add a deep and authentic aroma.
2. Mint Extract: For Fresh and Invigorating Ice Cream
Homemade mint extract is perfect for mint ice cream or for adding a touch of freshness to bolder recipes like chocolate-mint.
- Ingredients : 1 cup of fresh mint leaves, 250 ml of vodka.
- Preparation : Wash and dry the mint leaves, then place them in a jar. Add the vodka and let it infuse for about 2 to 3 weeks. Strain the extract and store it in an airtight jar.
- Usage : Add a few drops to chocolate or vanilla ice cream for an intense touch of freshness.
3. Coffee Extract: Ideal for gourmet ice creams and sorbets
For coffee lovers, this homemade extract is a must! It's perfect for intensely flavored ice creams or for iced desserts like "frappuccino".
- Ingredients : 1/2 cup freshly ground coffee beans, 250 ml vodka.
- Preparation : Mix the ground coffee beans with the vodka in a jar. Let it infuse for 1 to 2 weeks, shaking the jar regularly. Strain the beans to keep only the liquid.
- Use : This extract is perfect for intense coffee ice cream or for flavoring almond or coconut milk-based sorbet.
4. Hazelnut Extract: For Indulgent and Creamy Ice Cream
Hazelnut extract adds a sweet and indulgent flavor, ideal for creamy ice creams such as chocolate-hazelnut or praline flavors.
- Ingredients : 1 cup of roasted hazelnuts, 250 ml of vodka.
- Preparation : Lightly toast the hazelnuts to intensify their flavor, then place them in a jar with the vodka. Let it infuse for 2 to 4 weeks. Strain the extract and store it in a cool, dark place.
- Usage : Add this extract to chocolate or vanilla ice cream for a delicious hazelnut touch.
5. Almond Extract: A Delicate Note for Amazing Ice Creams
Homemade almond extract gives a mild, slightly sweet flavor, perfect for milder ice creams or fruit-based creations.
- Ingredients : 1/2 cup raw almonds, 250 ml vodka.
- Preparation : Soak the almonds in hot water for a few hours, then peel them. Place them in a jar with the vodka and let them infuse for 3 to 4 weeks. Strain the extract.
- Use : A touch of almond extract is delicious in cherry or peach ice cream for a "fruit pie" effect.
6. Citrus Zest Extract: For Tangy and Refreshing Ice Creams
Citrus fruits, such as lemon, orange or grapefruit, are perfect for creating a fresh and tangy extract.
- Ingredients : Zest of 2 to 3 lemons (or oranges, grapefruits), 250 ml of vodka.
- Preparation : Zest the citrus fruits, avoiding the bitter white pith. Place the zest in a jar with the vodka and let it infuse for 1 to 2 weeks. Strain and store the extract.
- Use : Ideal in fruit ice creams for a refreshing and tangy taste, this extract can also enhance sorbets made with exotic fruits.
7. Lavender Extract: For a Floral and Delicate Ice Cream
Lavender extract adds a subtle floral note and is perfect for sophisticated ice creams, to be served during special meals.
- Ingredients : 1/2 cup dried lavender flowers, 250 ml vodka.
- Preparation : Place the lavender flowers in a jar, add the vodka and let it infuse for 1 to 2 weeks. Filter the extract.
- Use : A touch in vanilla or red fruit ice cream will bring a unique and delicate aroma.
Tips for Using Your Extracts in the Ninja CREAMi
- Dosage : Homemade extracts are often more concentrated than commercial ones, so a few drops are enough! Adjust according to your preferences and the type of ice cream.
- Mix with Creamy Ingredients : Homemade extracts blend well with creamy bases (such as vanilla, chocolate, or yogurt) for a balanced flavor.
- Add at the end of preparation : Incorporate the extract at the last moment before blending the ice cream to preserve the freshness and intensity of the aroma.
For more recipes and tips, check out my e-book!
If these extract ideas inspire you, you'll find plenty of tips for personalizing your ice cream with homemade flavors "Secrets to Perfect Ice Cream."
- A complete guide to ingredients : Tips for choosing the best ingredients for authentic homemade ice cream.
- Exclusive extract recipes : Create unique extracts for each season.
- Tips for combining flavors and achieving perfectly balanced ice creams.
With 52 pages of tips and recipes, this e-book is perfect for those who want to take their homemade ice cream to the next level and offer their guests desserts that are as delicious as they are original.
Creating your own flavor extracts is a simple way to make every ice cream unique. So, ready to transform your frozen desserts with homemade flavors?
