Cold brew coffee has taken the coffee world by storm with its smooth rich flavor and low acidity. Combining that bold coffee taste with creamy ice cream creates a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Our cold brew coffee ice cream recipe captures the essence of your favorite chilled coffee in a luscious frozen treat.
We love how this recipe balances the deep coffee notes with just the right amount of sweetness and creaminess. It’s perfect for coffee lovers looking to cool down on a hot day or anyone craving a unique twist on classic ice cream. Plus it’s surprisingly simple to make at home with just a few ingredients and no fancy equipment needed.
Let’s dive into crafting this delicious cold brew coffee ice cream that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re serving it up for guests or enjoying a scoop solo we’ve got you covered with tips and tricks for the best results.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream, we need to gather fresh and quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing the boldness of coffee with creamy sweetness.
Cold Brew Coffee
Our star ingredient is the cold brew coffee which delivers a smooth and robust flavor without bitterness. Here’s what we need:
- 1 ½ cups cold brew coffee, strong and well-chilled
- Note: Use your favorite cold brew or prepare it at home by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for 12-24 hours.
Ice Cream Base Ingredients
The creamy texture and sweetness come from a rich ice cream base. We use simple ingredients to create that luscious mouthfeel:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 2 cups | Cold, for luxurious creaminess |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Full-fat for smooth consistency |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | Adjust based on sweetness preference |
| Egg yolks | 4 large | For richness and custard base |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor |
Optional Mix-ins and Toppings
To elevate our Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream experience, we can add texture and complementary flavors. These ingredients are optional but highly recommended:
- Chocolate chips or chunks (¼ cup) for a bittersweet crunch
- Crushed roasted nuts (2 tablespoons) like pecans or almonds for extra texture
- Caramel drizzle for added sweetness
- Whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for serving
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream, we need to gather the essential equipment that ensures smooth preparation and consistent results. Here’s what we’ll use:
- Ice Cream Maker
This is the key appliance for churning and freezing our ice cream base evenly, resulting in a creamy texture without large ice crystals.
- Mixing Bowls
A medium-sized bowl for combining ingredients and a heatproof bowl for tempering egg yolks.
- Whisk
To blend the egg yolks and sugar smoothly and to incorporate ingredients evenly.
- Saucepan
For gently heating the milk and cream mixture without scalding.
- Fine Mesh Sieve
To strain the custard base, ensuring a silky smooth ice cream texture by removing any cooked egg bits.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision is crucial, so we measure ingredients exactly for balanced flavor.
- Spatula
To scrape down the sides of bowls and transfer the ice cream base cleanly.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ice Cream Maker | Churn and freeze ice cream evenly |
| Mixing Bowls | Combine and prepare ingredients |
| Whisk | Blend yolks and sugar smoothly |
| Saucepan | Heat milk and cream base gently |
| Fine Mesh Sieve | Strain custard for smooth texture |
| Measuring Tools | Ensure precise ingredient proportions |
| Spatula | Scrape and transfer mixtures efficiently |
“Using the right tools helps us achieve that perfect balance of richness and smoothness in our Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream,” we always say. Before starting, let’s ensure all equipment is clean and chilled if possible—especially the ice cream maker bowl, for best results.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning ahead is key to creating the smoothest and richest Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream. Let’s go over how to prepare the essential components in advance for the best results.
Preparing Cold Brew Coffee
To capture that signature bold and smooth flavor of cold brew coffee, start by making your coffee concentrate at least 12 to 24 hours before using it in the ice cream base. Here’s how we do it:
- Combine 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans with 4 cups cold filtered water in a large jar or pitcher.
- Stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated.
- Cover and steep in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve lined with a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove the grounds. This process ensures a clean, rich concentrate free of sediment.
- Store the cold brew concentrate in a sealed container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
| Step | Ingredient/Item | Quantity | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combine coffee and water | Coarse coffee grounds | 1 cup | Immediate |
| Steep | Cold filtered water | 4 cups | 12 to 24 hours fridge |
| Strain | Fine mesh sieve/filter | N/A | After steeping |
| Store | Sealed container | N/A | Up to 1 week fridge |
“The longer the steep, the richer and smoother the cold brew — perfect for our ice cream base.”
Chilling Ice Cream Base
Once the ice cream base is cooked and well combined with our cold brew concentrate, chilling it thoroughly is essential to developing that luxuriously creamy texture.
- After cooking, immediately strain the custard through a fine sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
- Cover the surface with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate the base for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This ensures the mixture is completely cold and thick before churning.
- If short on time, an ice bath can speed up the cooling process but do not skip the chilling step in the fridge.
- Cold ingredients help the ice cream maker work efficiently, locking in the velvety smooth consistency we want.
“Patience here equals perfection — the well-chilled base churns into the best Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream texture.”
| Step | Description | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Strain custard | Remove lumps, ensure smooth base | Immediately after cooking |
| Cover and chill | Seal with plastic wrap surface contact | Minimum 4 hours |
| Recommended chill time | Overnight chilling yields best texture | 8+ hours |
| Optional ice bath | Speeds cooling but cooling completion in fridge needed | 15-30 minutes + fridge |
With these make-ahead tips, our Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream will boast deep coffee notes and irresistibly creamy texture every time we serve it.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create our rich and creamy Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream that perfectly balances bold coffee flavors with velvety sweetness.
Preparing the Ice Cream Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups heavy cream and 1 cup whole milk. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil to preserve the cream’s richness.
- While the cream mixture warms, whisk 4 large egg yolks and 3/4 cup granulated sugar in a separate bowl until the mixture turns pale and slightly thickened.
- Slowly pour about one cup of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs and avoid curdling.
- Gradually return the tempered egg mixture into the saucepan with the rest of the cream and milk, stirring continuously.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a spatula, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spatula—a temperature of about 170°F (77°C) is ideal.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for aromatic depth.
- Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits for a smooth texture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly on the surface to prevent skin formation.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to thoroughly chill the base.
Combining Cold Brew Coffee with Ice Cream Base
- Measure out 1 cup of cold brew coffee concentrate that we prepared earlier.
- Gradually whisk the cold brew concentrate into the chilled ice cream base until fully incorporated, creating a harmonized coffee-cream blend.
- Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness if needed by gently adding more sugar and whisking until dissolved.
- For a richer texture, consider folding in a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or a pinch of fine sea salt to elevate flavor complexity.
- Ensure the combined mixture is well-chilled before proceeding to the churning process.
Churning the Ice Cream
- Prepare our ice cream maker by ensuring the bowl is properly frozen according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Pour the coffee-infused ice cream base into the machine.
- Churn the mixture for approximately 20–25 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. Timing may vary depending on your model.
- Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid.
- For optimal texture, freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up before serving.
| Step | Key Details | Temperature/Time |
|---|---|---|
| Heat cream & milk | Warm until simmering | Medium heat, ~170°F |
| Temper eggs | Gradually add warm mixture to yolks | Continuous whisking |
| Cook custard | Stir until thickened | Low heat, ~170°F |
| Chill base | Refrigerate covered | ≥4 hours, preferably overnight |
| Churn ice cream | Until soft-serve texture | 20-25 minutes |
| Freeze final product | Firm consistency | ≥4 hours |
This method guarantees a perfectly balanced Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream with smooth texture and a bold coffee kick in every creamy bite.
Directions for Freezing and Serving
To achieve the perfect Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream consistency and flavor, proper freezing and serving techniques are essential. Follow these steps to enjoy a creamy and refreshing dessert that highlights the smooth, bold taste of cold brew.
Freezing the Ice Cream
After churning, transfer the ice cream immediately into an airtight container to prevent ice crystals from forming. For the best texture, press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the lid.
- Freeze the ice cream for at least 4 to 6 hours to allow it to firm up properly.
- For a softer, scoopable texture, freeze for 4 hours; for a firmer hold, extend freezing to 6 hours or overnight.
- Store the container in the coldest part of the freezer to maintain consistent texture and prevent melting or refreezing cycles.
| Freezing Time | Texture Outcome | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | Soft and scoopable | Ideal for immediate serving |
| 6 hours or longer | Firm and sliceable | Best for make-ahead preparation |
Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. This slight thaw ensures a smooth scoop and maximizes the flavor intensity of the cold brew notes.
Serving Suggestions
Our Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream shines as a standalone treat but pairs wonderfully with various toppings and accompaniments:
- Drizzle caramel sauce or chocolate syrup for an indulgent touch.
- Sprinkle crushed toasted nuts or chocolate chips to add texture contrast.
- Serve alongside fresh berries or biscotti for a balanced dessert plate.
- Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder to elevate presentation and taste.
For an extra coffee kick, serve a scoop with a shot of espresso poured over it, creating an impromptu affogato that highlights the rich cold brew flavor.
Tips for the Best Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream
To create the ultimate Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream experience, we must pay attention to several key factors. These tips ensure every scoop delivers the perfect balance of smooth texture and bold coffee flavor.
Use High-Quality Cold Brew Coffee
The foundation of our ice cream’s flavor is the cold brew coffee. Use a freshly brewed, high-quality cold brew concentrate with a smooth, rich profile. Avoid overly acidic or bitter blends, as the freezing process can intensify unwanted sharpness.
Balance Sweetness and Bitterness
Since cold brew naturally has a mild bitterness, adjusting the sweetness level of the ice cream base is crucial. We recommend starting with the recipe’s suggested sugar amount and tasting before churning. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dessert, add sugar in small increments (1 tablespoon at a time).
Perfect the Custard Base Temperature
Cooking the custard to the right temperature is essential for a rich creamy texture without curdling. Aim for 170°F to 175°F (77°C to 79°C) while stirring constantly. Use a reliable digital thermometer for accuracy.
| Custard Cooking Temperature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 170°F – 175°F (77°C – 79°C) | Coagulate egg yolks creating smooth custard |
Chill the Ice Cream Base Thoroughly
Before mixing in the cold brew and churning, chill the custard base completely in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. A well-chilled mixture churns faster and yields a creamier texture with less iciness.
Use Cold Brew Concentrate Gradually
Incorporate the cold brew concentrate after the custard base is fully chilled. Add it slowly and taste as you go to maintain the perfect coffee strength without overpowering the creaminess.
Precise Churning Time
Churn the ice cream in our ice cream maker for approximately 20 to 25 minutes or until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. Under-churning results in a runny texture, while over-churning can cause a grainy mouthfeel.
Proper Storage and Freezing
Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for 4 to 6 hours to firm up. We recommend placing a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface before sealing the container to minimize ice crystals.
| Freezing Time | Expected Texture |
|---|---|
| 2-3 hours | Soft serve consistency |
| 4-6 hours | Firm, scoopable texture |
Let Ice Cream Soften Before Serving
Remove the ice cream from the freezer 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to soften just enough for easy scooping and enhances flavor release on the palate.
Experiment with Mix-Ins and Toppings
To elevate our Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream, try adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or crushed nuts during the last 5 minutes of churning. For toppings, a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of cocoa powder complements the coffee notes beautifully.
“The best coffee ice cream balances boldness with creaminess, inviting you to savor every velvety spoonful.”
By following these tips we guarantee our Cold Brew Coffee Ice Cream will be a deliciously smooth and flavorful treat every time.
Conclusion
Crafting cold brew coffee ice cream at home is a rewarding way to enjoy a rich and refreshing dessert. With just a few quality ingredients and the right techniques, we can create a smooth, creamy treat that highlights the bold flavors of cold brew coffee.
Whether we’re serving it at a gathering or savoring it solo, this recipe offers endless opportunities to customize and elevate our ice cream experience. Let’s keep experimenting with mix-ins and toppings to discover our perfect scoop every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cold brew coffee ice cream?
Cold brew coffee ice cream is a creamy dessert made by combining smooth, concentrated cold brew coffee with a rich ice cream base. It offers a balanced blend of robust coffee flavor and sweetness, perfect for coffee lovers.
What ingredients do I need to make cold brew coffee ice cream?
You’ll need cold brew coffee concentrate, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Optional toppings include chocolate chips, nuts, caramel drizzle, or whipped cream.
Do I need an ice cream maker to make this recipe?
An ice cream maker is highly recommended to achieve the perfect creamy texture and smooth consistency, but you can use alternative freezing methods with more effort.
How long should I freeze the ice cream after churning?
After churning, freeze the ice cream in an airtight container for 4 to 6 hours to firm up, depending on your preferred texture.
Can I adjust the sweetness or coffee strength in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily adjust sugar levels to taste and add more or less cold brew concentrate to control the coffee intensity.
How do I prevent ice crystals from forming in the ice cream?
Use parchment paper to cover the ice cream’s surface and store it in an airtight container, plus maintain consistent freezing temperatures.
What are some serving suggestions for cold brew coffee ice cream?
Try drizzling caramel or chocolate sauce, adding nuts or fresh berries, or creating an affogato by pouring a shot of espresso over a scoop.
Is cold brew coffee less bitter than regular coffee in ice cream?
Yes, cold brew coffee is smoother and less bitter, which enhances the ice cream’s flavor without harshness.
Can I make cold brew coffee ice cream without eggs?
Egg yolks are used to create a rich custard base, but you can find egg-free recipes or use egg substitutes for a custard-free version.
How do I ensure my ice cream base is perfectly cooked?
Heat the cream and milk gently, temper the egg yolks slowly, and cook until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, without scrambling.