Hello to all you homemade ice cream fans! We all know that great ice cream isn't just about the flavor: what often makes all the difference are the toppings! Those little finishing touches that add crunch, sweetness, or an extra twist of flavor. Whether you love ultra-indulgent ice creams or lighter, fruitier versions, here's the ultimate guide to toppings to elevate your homemade creations with the CREAMi Ninja. Get inspired!
1. Essentials: Nuts and Dried Fruit
Nothing beats the crunch of nuts and dried fruit to balance the sweetness of ice cream. Besides providing an interesting texture, nuts add a healthy touch (full of good fats and fiber!).
- Slivered almonds : Crunchy and discreet, they go with just about anything.
- Caramelized pecans : For an irresistibly indulgent touch, especially with vanilla, caramel or chocolate ice cream.
- Cashew nuts : Their sweetness pairs well with exotic flavors like mango or coconut.
- Crushed pistachios : They add a vibrant color and perfect crunch, especially with strawberry ice cream or frozen yogurt.
Tip : Lightly toast the nuts to intensify their flavor. You can also quickly caramelize them with a little sugar and water!
2. Fresh Fruit: 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 very well with creamy ice creams.
- Strawberries and raspberries : Cut into small pieces, they bring a slightly tart taste perfect for balancing 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 go well with creamy ice creams like yogurt or vanilla.
- Banana slices : A classic that goes well with almost anything, especially with melted chocolate or hazelnut pieces.
3. Chocolate Shavings and Chips: Chocolate Pleasure
If you're a chocolate fan (like me!), chocolate shavings and chips are a must. They add a touch of indulgence and go 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 berries.
- 70% cocoa chocolate chips : Perfect for an intense touch and a crunch that melts in the mouth.
- Mini chocolate balls : Fun for kids and great on vanilla or caramel ice cream.
Tip : If you're the creative type, make your own shavings by grating a chocolate bar!
4. Homemade Sauces and Coulis: The 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 : A delight 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 gives 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. Biscuits and Gourmet Treats: For Crunchy Food Lovers
If you like ice cream with lots of toppings, then cookie pieces and other crunchy toppings are for you. They add a melt-in-your-mouth or crunchy texture that contrasts with the ice cream – a real treat for the taste buds!
- Cookie pieces : Perfect with chocolate or caramel ice cream for a "cookie dough" effect.
- Crushed speculoos biscuits : Perfect for fans of cinnamon and spicy flavors.
- Homemade crumble : Ideal for frozen yogurt or fruit ice cream.
- Meringue shards : Light and sweet, they are delicious on lemon or raspberry ice cream.
Tip : Crush the biscuits yourself to get the ideal size of shards and keep them fresh.
6. Grated Coconut and Other Exotic Treats
For a tropical touch, nothing beats grated coconut, cacao nibs, or even chia seeds for a slightly healthier option. They pair well with fruit flavors and add a touch of originality.
- Grated coconut : Goes with everything from chocolate ice cream to frozen yogurt.
- Cocoa nibs : Perfect for an intense crunch and a sophisticated touch.
- Chia seeds : Add them for a crunchy and nutritious touch, ideal for frozen yogurt.
- Matcha powder : A touch for those who like subtle and unique flavors.
7. Candied Dried Fruits and Nougatines: For Sweet Lovers
Candied dried fruits and nougatine add a sweet taste and a unique texture. Perfect for fans of indulgent ice cream, these toppings are ideal on vanilla, chocolate, or coffee ice cream.
- Pieces of candied ginger : Gives a spicy and sweet touch at the same time.
- 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 slightly 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 cravings 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 will your next ice cream be topped with?
