London Fog Ice Cream

If you’re looking for a delightful way to cool off on a warm day, this London Fog Ice Cream is just what you need! Inspired by the classic London Fog tea latte, this creamy and dreamy ice cream will have you swooning with every bite. It’s an easy no-churn recipe that brings together the rich flavors of Earl Gray tea and vanilla, making it a perfect treat for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to whip up. Imagine serving this luscious ice cream at your next get-together or enjoying it as a sweet escape after a long day. You’ll find that it’s not just delicious but also a wonderful conversation starter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: No ice cream maker needed! This no-churn recipe lets you enjoy homemade ice cream with minimal effort.
• Family-friendly treat: Everyone will love the unique flavor of Earl Gray in this creamy dessert. It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a hot summer day or a cozy evening in, this London Fog Ice Cream fits right in.
• Make ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and keep it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. Ideal for those last-minute dessert cravings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious London Fog Ice Cream, you’ll only need a few simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home!

For the Ice Cream

• 2 cups Heavy whipping cream (35%)
• 2 teaspoons Earl Gray tea
• 1 cup Sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some mini chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use sweetened condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Infuse other flavors: Try adding a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist.
• Swirl in some fruit: Fold in fresh berries or even a fruit puree before freezing for added freshness.

How to Make London Fog Ice Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Tea Infusion

In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy whipping cream with the loose Earl Gray tea. It’s important to heat it gently so that all those lovely flavors from the tea can infuse into the cream without boiling over.

Step 2: Simmer and Steep

Bring the cream mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once you see bubbles starting to form, remove it from heat and let it steep for two more minutes. This step allows the rich flavors of the tea to develop fully.

Step 3: Strain the Mixture

After steeping, strain out the tea leaves from the cream mixture using a fine mesh strainer. Discard the leaves—they’ve done their job! Then place your fragrant cream into a mason jar and refrigerate until completely chilled, about 2 hours.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In a large bowl, beat the chilled heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form, which should take about 4-6 minutes. This step adds airiness to our ice cream, making it light and fluffy!

Step 5: Fold in Sweetness

Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract using a spoon or spatula. Take care not to deflate your whipped cream too much; we want that wonderful texture!

Step 6: Freeze Until Set

Finally, pour your ice cream mixture into your freezer container. Cover tightly and freeze for at least 4 hours or until completely set. The anticipation will be worth it when you finally scoop out that creamy goodness!

Now you’re ready to dive into your homemade London Fog Ice Cream! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making London Fog Ice Cream

Making your own ice cream is a rewarding experience, and with these pro tips, you can ensure your London Fog Ice Cream turns out perfectly every time!

• Use high-quality tea: The flavor of your ice cream relies heavily on the tea. Opt for a premium Earl Grey to truly capture that aromatic essence.

• Chill the cream mixture thoroughly: Allowing the cream to chill completely before whipping ensures a better texture and helps the ice cream set more smoothly.

• Don’t overwhip the cream: Aim for soft peaks instead of stiff peaks when whipping the heavy cream. This keeps the ice cream light and airy, which is crucial for that creamy mouthfeel.

• Fold gently: When combining the whipped cream with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, be gentle. Overmixing can deflate the air you’ve incorporated, leading to a denser final product.

• Allow enough freezer time: Patience is key! Ensure you freeze the ice cream long enough for it to set completely. This will give you that perfect scoopable texture.

How to Serve London Fog Ice Cream

Serving your London Fog Ice Cream can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Freshly grated lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bright note that complements the bergamot in Earl Grey tea beautifully.

• Whipped coconut cream: For those looking for a dairy-free option, a dollop of whipped coconut cream adds an extra layer of richness and flavor.

• Chocolate shavings: A few chocolate shavings on top introduce a touch of decadence that pairs well with the tea’s floral notes.

Side Dishes

• Shortbread cookies: These buttery treats provide a perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of the ice cream.

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the ice cream and adds natural sweetness. Consider using berries or citrus fruits for added brightness.

• Scones with clotted cream: For a British twist, serve your ice cream alongside warm scones topped with clotted cream. It’s like enjoying an afternoon tea at home!

• Almond biscotti: These crunchy cookies are great for dipping into your ice cream or enjoying on their own as you savor each bite.

Now that you’re equipped with pro tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to indulge in this delightful treat! Enjoy your homemade London Fog Ice Cream and share it with friends and family for an unforgettable dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

This London Fog Ice Cream is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep. You can whip up a batch ahead of time and have it ready for any occasion, ensuring you always have a sweet indulgence on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
• Place parchment paper or wax paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container to maintain its creamy texture.
• Enjoy within two weeks for optimal flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Once your ice cream mixture is fully set, ensure it’s well-wrapped or sealed in an airtight container.
• For longer storage, consider using a vacuum sealer to minimize air exposure.
• Ice cream can last up to three months in the freezer, but its best quality is within the first few weeks.

Reheating

• If your ice cream becomes too hard after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping.
• Avoid microwaving as this can cause uneven melting and affect the texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making London Fog Ice Cream:

Can I use regular milk instead of heavy cream?

While heavy cream gives this London Fog Ice Cream its rich and creamy texture, you could substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version. However, the ice cream may not be as luxurious.

How do I make London Fog Ice Cream without a churner?

This recipe is designed to be no-churn! Simply follow the instructions as listed, and you’ll achieve a creamy texture without any special equipment.

What if I can’t find Earl Grey tea?

You can experiment with other flavored teas, such as vanilla or chamomile, but keep in mind that each will impart a different taste to your London Fog Ice Cream.

How long does it take for the ice cream to set?

After mixing all ingredients together, allow the ice cream to set in the freezer for about 4 hours or until solid.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful London Fog Ice Cream as much as I do! It’s such a special treat that captures the essence of an Earl Grey latte while being incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it by yourself, it’s bound to bring a smile to your face. Give it a try; I’m sure you’ll love every creamy bite!