Hello to all you homemade ice cream fans! We know that good ice cream isn't just about its flavor: what often makes the difference are the toppings! Those little finishing touches that add crunch, sweetness, or an extra twist of flavor. Whether you like ultra-indulgent ice creams or fruitier and lighter versions, here's the ultimate guide to toppings to enhance your homemade creations with the Ninja CREAMi. Let yourself be inspired!
1. The Essentials: Nuts and Dried Fruits
There's nothing like the crunch of nuts and dried fruit to balance the sweetness of ice cream. In addition to adding an interesting texture, nuts add a little health boost (full of good fats and fiber!).
- Slivered almonds : Crunchy and discreet, they go with just about everything.
- Caramelized pecans : For an irresistible gourmet touch, especially with vanilla, caramel or chocolate ice cream.
- Cashews : Their sweetness pairs well with exotic flavors like mango or coconut.
- Crushed pistachios : They add a vibrant color and a perfect crunch, especially with strawberry ice cream or yogurt ice cream.
Tip : Lightly toast the nuts to intensify their flavor. You can also quickly caramelize them with a little sugar and water!
2. Fresh Fruits: For a Light and Colorful Touch
Fresh fruit is perfect for lighter ice creams and adds a touch of freshness. In summer, it's ideal for fruity sorbets, but also works well with creamy ice creams.
- Strawberries and raspberries : Cut into small pieces, they bring a little tangy taste perfect to balance the sweetness.
- Mangoes and pineapples : Perfect for a tropical effect, especially with coconut milk or yogurt ice cream.
- Blueberries and blackberries : Pretty and delicious, they pair well with creamy ice creams like yogurt or vanilla.
- Banana slices : A classic that goes well with almost anything, especially melted chocolate or hazelnut slivers.
3. Chocolate Chips and Chips: Chocolatey Pleasure
If you're a chocolate fan (like me!), chocolate chips and shavings are a must-have. They add a delicious touch and pair well with almost any ice cream flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Chips : Intense and not too sweet, perfect for those who want to balance the sweetness of the ice cream.
- White chocolate shavings : Ideal for a creamy and sweet effect, especially with red fruits.
- 70% Cacao Chocolate Chips : Perfect for an intense bite and a crunch that melts in your mouth.
- Mini Chocolate Balls : Fun for kids and great on vanilla or caramel ice cream.
Tip : If you're feeling creative, make your own shavings by grating a chocolate bar!
4. Homemade Sauces and Coulis: The Little Gourmet Extra
A good homemade sauce transforms ice cream into a restaurant-worthy dessert. Fruity coulis add freshness, while caramel or chocolate sauces are a treat for those with a sweet tooth.
- Red fruit coulis : Perfect with yogurt, vanilla or lemon ice cream.
- Salted Caramel Sauce : Delicious with coffee or chocolate ice cream.
- Maple Syrup : For a sweet but natural taste, especially good with nut or vanilla ice cream.
- Mango coulis : Super fresh, it adds a tropical touch to coconut or lemon ice cream.
Tip : Make your coulis by mixing fresh fruit with a little lemon juice and sugar, then pass through a sieve for a smooth texture.
5. Gourmet Biscuits and Chips: For Crunchy Lovers of Sweet Treats
If you like your ice cream rich and filling, cookie crumbles and other crunchy toppings are for you. They add a melting or crunchy texture that contrasts with the ice cream, a treat for the taste buds!
- Cookie Dough Chips : Perfect with chocolate or caramel ice cream for a “cookie dough” effect.
- Crushed speculoos cookies : Perfect for fans of cinnamon and spicy flavors.
- Homemade crumble : Ideal for yogurt ice cream or fruit ice cream.
- Meringue Flakes : Light and sweet, delicious on lemon or raspberry ice cream.
Tip : Crush the cookies yourself to get the perfect size of chips and keep them fresh.
6. Grated Coconut and Other Exotics
For a tropical touch, there's nothing like shredded coconut, cacao nibs, or even chia seeds for a slightly healthier twist. They pair well with fruit flavors and add a touch of originality.
- Shredded Coconut : Goes well with everything from chocolate ice cream to frozen yogurt.
- Cocoa bean nibs : Perfect for an intense crunch and a sophisticated touch.
- Chia seeds : Add them for a crunchy and nutritious side, ideal for yogurt ice cream.
- Matcha Powder : A touch for those who love subtle and unique flavors.
7. Candied Dried Fruits and Nougatines: For Lovers of Sweets
Candied dried fruit and nougatines add a sweet taste and unique texture. Perfect for fans of ultra-indulgent ice cream, these toppings are ideal for vanilla, chocolate, or coffee ice cream.
- Candied ginger pieces : Adds a spicy yet sweet touch.
- Candied orange peel : Perfect with dark chocolate or coffee ice cream.
- Crushed Nougatine : A treat to add crunch and sweetness at the same time.
- Raisins or goji berries : For a fruity and chewy touch, especially on vanilla ice cream.
With all these ideas, all you have to do is pick and choose according to your current mood and have fun in the kitchen! Toppings are the cherry on top of homemade ice cream: they personalize it and add fun to every spoonful. So, what's the next ice cream you'll be topping?
