Name: Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Blissfully Cool
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 300 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Strawberries (Ripe and fresh for best flavor); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Enhances sweetness); 1 tablespoon Lime Zest (Use fresh lime); 2 cups Heavy Cream (Can substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free option); 1 cup Milk (Almond or oat milk can be used to keep it dairy-free); 4 large Egg Yolks (Consider vegan egg replacer for alternatives); 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (Can substitute with mint for a twist); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Fresh-squeezed is best); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Opt for pure vanilla for best taste)

The warm aroma of roasted strawberries wafting through my kitchen transports me to summer picnics and sun-drenched days. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream—a delightful dessert that merges the luscious sweetness of caramelized strawberries with the invigorating zest of fresh lime and aromatic basil. The best part? It’s a homemade ice cream that’s not just refreshing but also surprisingly easy to whip up, making it an instant crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing guests with a sophisticated twist, this ice cream captures the essence of indulgence without the fuss. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive in and create a treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why is this ice cream so special?

Unique Flavor Combination: The delightful blend of roasted strawberries and lime basil creates an extraordinary taste experience that will surprise and satisfy your palate.
Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe invites even novice chefs to create a gourmet dessert. It’s reminiscent of those homemade delights you’ll love!
Sophisticated Appeal: Impress family and friends with a dessert that feels upscale but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Pair it with a slice of warm pie for a divine combo!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy night in, this ice cream fits seamlessly into any event, leaving everyone craving your culinary genius. To make your meal complete, consider serving alongside Garlic Roasted Chicken for an unforgettable dining experience!
Crowd-Pleaser: The vibrant flavors and stunning presentation will have everyone asking for the recipe, making it a highlight of any gathering.

Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Ingredients

For the Strawberries
• Strawberries – Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps caramelize the strawberries; brown sugar can add depth.
• Lime Zest – Brings zesty brightness to the strawberries, so opt for fresh lime for maximum flavor.

For the Ice Cream Base
• Heavy Cream – Provides a rich and creamy texture; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Milk – Balances creaminess; almond or oat milk can be used to keep it dairy-free.
• Egg Yolks – Create a custard base, adding richness; consider a vegan egg replacer for alternatives.
• Fresh Basil – Infuses a unique herbal flavor; try mint for a refreshing twist!
• Lime Juice – Enhances flavor, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the strawberries; fresh-squeezed is best.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for roasting the strawberries. Allow it to fully preheat while you move on to the next step. This temperature ensures that the strawberries will caramelize beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Prepare Strawberries
Arrange the ripe strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re evenly spread out. Sprinkle granulated sugar and lime zest over them, giving each berry a generous coat for that added sweetness and zest. Roast them for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they’re soft and caramelized.

Step 3: Make Puree
Once the roasted strawberries have cooled, transfer them to a mixing bowl. Use a fork or a blender to puree or mash the strawberries to your desired consistency. This puree will be blended into the ice cream, providing bursts of sweet fruit flavor while enhancing the entire experience of the Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream.

Step 4: Warm Cream Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, and half of the sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture is warm but not boiling, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely. This step creates a rich base for your ice cream that will integrate beautifully with the other flavors.

Step 5: Temper Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until smooth and slightly pale in color. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. This tempering step is crucial for achieving a creamy base for your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream.

Step 6: Cook Custard
Return the yolk and cream mixture back to the saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which should take around 5–7 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, as this could cause the yolks to scramble instead of create a smooth custard.

Step 7: Add Basil
Once your custard is thickened, stir in the chopped fresh basil, letting it steep for about 15 minutes. This infusion will release the herbal notes, enhancing the flavor profile of your ice cream. After steeping, strain the mixture to remove the basil solids for a creamy, clean finish.

Step 8: Combine
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooled roasted strawberry puree, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract with the strained custard. Stir well to ensure everything is combined. This blend captures the essence of the Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream, adding layers of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.

Step 9: Chill Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the mixture to prevent skin from forming. Chill the combined mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until it’s thoroughly chilled. This step is key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture when you churn the ice cream.

Step 10: Churn Ice Cream
Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20–30 minutes, until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency. The churning process incorporates air, giving your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream a light, airy texture.

Step 11: Freeze
After churning, transfer the ice cream into an airtight container. Smooth the top and seal it tightly. Freeze for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the ice cream to firm up perfectly for serving, enhancing the delightful combination of roasted strawberries and zingy lime basil.

Step 12: Serve
Scoop the creamy, vibrant ice cream into bowls or waffle cones. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil, a drizzle of strawberry syrup, or a slice of lime. This delightful serving option will elevate your homemade Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream, making every scoop an unforgettable treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can roast the strawberries and prepare the puree up to 3 days in advance, then store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep their flavors intact. Additionally, you can make the custard base and chill it up to 24 hours ahead; just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent any skin from forming. When you’re ready to churn, simply mix the chilled custard with the roasted strawberry puree and proceed from there. This way, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready with minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy with family and friends!

Expert Tips for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream

Choose Ripe Strawberries: Select fresh, ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness and flavor. Unripe ones can lead to a less satisfying ice cream.
Avoid Curdling: When tempering egg yolks, pour the warm cream mixture in gradually while whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
Chill Well: Ensure the custard mixture is thoroughly chilled before churning. This enhances the creaminess of your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream.
Don’t Over-Churn: Keep an eye on the texture while churning. Over-churning can lead to a grainy ice cream. Stop once it’s thick and creamy!
Flavor Infusion: Let the basil steep in the custard long enough to extract its flavor, but strain it out for a smooth finish.

Storage Tips for Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the ice cream texture may not be as creamy once reheated.
Freezer: For longer storage, keep the Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s well sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: If the ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften before serving. Enjoy the lush flavors fresh!

Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Variations

Feel free to get creative and add your own personal touch to this delightful ice cream recipe, enhancing its flavors and textures!

Vegan Delight: Substitute heavy cream and milk with full-fat coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free ice cream experience.
Herb Twist: Use mint or lemon verbena instead of basil for a refreshing twist on the herbal flavor.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of rum or vodka to the mixture before churning for an adult dessert treat that adds depth.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle the ice cream with melted dark chocolate before serving for a decadent finish that perfectly complements the fruity flavors.
Crunchy Texture: Mix in crushed cookies or nuts during the last few minutes of churning for added texture. Try classic Oreos or toasted almonds for a delightful crunch!
Berry Medley: Swap out part or all of the strawberries for other berries like raspberries or blueberries, highlighting a medley of flavors.
Citrus Kick: Enhance the lime flavor by incorporating lemon zest alongside the lime for a zesty twist.

For an unforgettable dining experience, serve this ice cream alongside Turkey Herb Roasted or share some scoops with your loved ones after indulging in Garlic Roasted Chicken.

What to Serve with Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream

Elevate your culinary experience by pairing this delightful ice cream with complementary dishes that enhance its sweet and refreshing essence.

Lime Pound Cake: The tangy flavor of lime-infused cake perfectly complements the vibrant notes in the ice cream, creating a balanced dessert experience.
Shortcakes: Flaky homemade shortcakes provide a delightful texture contrast and serve as a wonderful vessel for this creamy treat. The combination is reminiscent of summer picnics!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits not only brightens the plate visually but adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ice cream.
Chocolate Fudge Sauce: Drizzling a warm, rich chocolate sauce over the ice cream promises a blissful blend of sweet and savory flavors that captivates the senses.
Mint Iced Tea: Sip on a refreshing mint iced tea alongside your dessert. Its herbal notes echo the basil in the ice cream, enhancing the overall experience.
Brownie Bites: Rich, fudgy brownies provide an indulgent pairing, offering a contrast in flavors and a decadent enhancement to the creamy ice cream.
Nutty Biscotti: Crispy, nutty biscotti delivers an excellent crunch and complements the ice cream’s creamy mouthfeel, perfect for dipping!
Meringue Cookies: Light and airy meringue cookies will add a whimsical element, offering a delightful textural contrast against the smooth ice cream.

Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting strawberries?
Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are ripe, plump, and bright red, avoiding any with green or white patches. Inspect for firmness and a sweet aroma. No dark spots all over, please! Ripe strawberries will yield the sweetest flavor when roasted.

How should I store leftover ice cream?
Store your Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent any freezer burn. If you have leftovers in the fridge, they can be kept for up to 2 days, but the texture may change upon reheating.

Can I freeze chunks of roasted strawberries?
Certainly! To freeze roasted strawberries, let them cool completely after roasting, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They should stay fresh for up to 3 months! Just use them straight from the freezer in smoothies or toppings.

What if my custard doesn’t thicken properly?
If your custard didn’t thicken enough, it may need more cooking time. Continue to cook it over low heat while stirring gently. You’re looking for it to coat the back of a spoon; if it still seems too runny, give it another few minutes. Always make sure not to let it boil, as this can cause scrambling.

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Yes! This ice cream contains eggs, dairy (heavy cream and milk), and sugar, which can pose issues for some individuals. For egg allergies, consider using a vegan egg replacer. If you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, coconut cream and non-dairy milk work beautifully as substitutes. Always double-check with guests about their dietary needs before serving.

How can I enhance the flavors in my ice cream?
Very! For an extra flavor boost, you can steep additional herbs alongside the basil, like fresh mint or even a touch of thyme. Simply chop them finely and let them infuse together with the basil in the custard. You can also add a pinch of sea salt before freezing to elevate the overall flavor profile!