Hazelnut Ice Cream Recipe Easy, Creamy, and Delicious

There’s something undeniably magical about hazelnut ice cream — the rich, nutty flavor combined with a creamy, smooth texture makes it a standout treat for any season. Whether you’re cooling down on a hot summer day or indulging in a cozy dessert after dinner, this homemade hazelnut ice cream recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.

Made from scratch with simple ingredients, it captures the essence of roasted hazelnuts perfectly, balancing sweetness and creaminess in every spoonful. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think!

If you’ve been searching for a luscious, nutty ice cream recipe to impress family and friends or simply treat yourself, this guide will walk you through everything step-by-step. Prepare to fall in love with this velvety, homemade delight that’s both elegant and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hazelnut ice cream recipe stands out because it uses whole roasted hazelnuts to infuse a deep, natural nutty flavor that store-bought versions just can’t match. The custard base is rich and creamy, made with real cream and egg yolks, ensuring a smooth texture that melts beautifully on your tongue.

Unlike many ice cream recipes that rely on artificial flavorings or pre-made pastes, this one celebrates the authentic taste of hazelnuts, roasted to perfection right at home.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile — you can customize it by adding chocolate chips, swirls of caramel, or even a pinch of espresso for a mocha twist. It’s perfect for anyone who loves gourmet ice cream but wants the satisfaction of making it from scratch.

Plus, if you’re interested in more tasty homemade treats, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or the refreshing A Cold Vegetable Soup Recipe to Refresh Your Summer Meals.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (140g) raw hazelnuts
• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 5 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Baking sheet for roasting hazelnuts
• Food processor or blender to grind hazelnuts
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan for heating milk and cream
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk for beating egg yolks
• Fine mesh sieve for straining custard
• Ice cream maker (optional but recommended)
• Plastic wrap for chilling custard

Instructions

1. Roast the hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the raw hazelnuts evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through to ensure even roasting. You’ll know they’re ready when their skins start to crack and the nuts smell fragrant.
2. Remove skins: Once roasted, transfer the hazelnuts to a clean kitchen towel. Rub them vigorously to remove most of the skins. It’s okay if some skins remain; they add a rustic texture and flavor.
3. Grind the hazelnuts: Place the roasted hazelnuts in a food processor or blender and pulse until finely ground but not turned into a paste. This releases their oils and flavor to infuse the ice cream base.
4. Heat milk and cream: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the milk, cream, and ground hazelnuts. Warm over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, then remove from heat. Cover and let the mixture steep for 30 minutes to extract the hazelnut essence.
5. Prepare the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened. This step is crucial for a smooth and creamy texture.
6. Temper the eggs: Slowly pour about 1 cup of the warm hazelnut milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to raise their temperature without scrambling. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
7. Cook the custard: Place the saucepan over low heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (around 170-175°F or 77-80°C). Do not boil, or the eggs will curdle.
8. Strain and chill: Pour the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove hazelnut bits. Stir in the vanilla extract. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and refrigerate until completely chilled (at least 4 hours or overnight).
9. Churn the ice cream: Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-30 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
10. Freeze and serve: Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up before serving. Enjoy your homemade hazelnut ice cream!

Tips & Variations

For an extra nutty and crunchy twist, stir in 1/2 cup of toasted chopped hazelnuts during the last 5 minutes of churning.

If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the custard into a shallow container and freeze, stirring vigorously every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals.

Add a swirl of chocolate fudge or caramel sauce during the final freeze for a decadent surprise.

For a vegan alternative, check out our Vegan Icecream Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Delicious Treats, which offers plant-based options with equally satisfying results.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hazelnut ice cream shines on its own, but you can elevate it further with some creative serving ideas. Try it topped with a sprinkle of chopped toasted hazelnuts or a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

It also pairs wonderfully with warm desserts like apple pie or chocolate lava cake, adding a cool, creamy contrast.

For a fun twist, serve scoops between two delicate cookies to make hazelnut ice cream sandwiches — an irresistible treat for parties or family gatherings. And if you’re in the mood for lighter accompaniments, fresh berries or a simple fruit compote complement the nutty flavor beautifully.

For more dessert inspiration, explore our Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy or the delightful Clementine Bakery Vegan Recipes for Delicious Treats.

Conclusion

Making hazelnut ice cream at home is a rewarding experience that brings out the best flavors of this beloved nut. With just a handful of quality ingredients and a little patience, you can create a luscious dessert that tastes like it belongs in a gourmet gelato shop.

The roasted hazelnuts add a depth and warmth that perfectly complements the creamy custard base, making each bite a delightful experience.

Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Don’t forget to experiment with add-ins and toppings to make it your own.

And while you’re here, explore more delicious recipes like the Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for your next culinary adventure. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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