Amarena cherry ice cream with toasted almonds
The first time I tasted this Amarena cherry ice cream was in Rome, sitting on the steps of a tiny gelataria overlooking the Colosseum. The air was hot, the view spectacular and the gelato, unforgettable. Since then, whenever I make this ice cream, I think of Italian summers. This ice cream can take you there.
To a child, ice cream is a thing of wonder. Growing up, our favourite end of month treat, was a visit to Carvel Ice Cream. There weren’t too many flavours, but that which were there, we loved. Vanilla with caramel-nut crunch was my best, my mother, always choosing the cherry and almond. I think she’s going to love this recipe.
The texture of this milky Amarena cherry ice cream is smooth and creamy. It’s a simple egg-free vanilla ice cream that’s a doddle to make. If you prefer a classic vanilla bean ice cream, leave out the Amarena cherries and almonds and serve with this salted caramel sauce. Being free of preservatives, it ‘s best to use within a week. It probably won’t last that long!
Amarena Cherry Ice Cream
- 500ml single cream
- 125ml full cream milk
- 80ml (1/3 cup) castor sugar
- half a vanilla bean, seeds scraped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons honey
- a pinch of salt
- 50g almond flakes, toasted
- 3 tablespoons Amarena cherries, drained
- Place the cream, milk, sugar, vanilla seeds, and honey in a small saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat and stir in a pinch of salt.
- Pour into a jug and set aside to cool to room temperature. Cover and chill overnight. Transfer to an ice cream maker and churn as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Fold the toasted almond flakes and cherries into the ice cream and spoon into a loaf tin. Cover with foil and freeze until firm. Drizzle with reserved cherry syrup and a few extra sweet cherries nestled on top.
- If you prefer a soft serve consistency, serve straight from churning.
7 Comments. Leave new
Di, I showed my hubby the ice cream, and ordered a machine from Santa! Let’s see if it arrives 25/12/2014.
I’m holding thumbs for you Ivette! A little subliminal advertising should work.
Screaming right along with you, Di! I have never used an ice cream maker, and since i don’t have the patience to churn every hour, I stay away from home made ice cream. But boy, this one has got me thinking again!
Fabulous photos! Off to hunt around in the freezer now for some leftover icecream 🙂
Sometimes the process is just worth it. I have a couple of no-churn recipes coming up that are superbly smooth and every bit as delicious. Stay tuned……
You have to try this. A super easy recipe that will keep your machine churning. No more store bought ice cream. I left out the cherries. Love The crunchy bits of almonds and honey flavour!!
Hi Di! Where can I get Amarena cherries? Would LOVE to try this ice cream! 🙂 I have your book as well and am a huge fan of yours.
Hi Mariette. It’s a wonderful combination of tart, sweet and creamy. I usually find Amarena cherries from good delis or Adriatic. Old town Italy in Pretoria and Melrose Arch also stocks. I hope that helps. They may offer online options too. I hope that helps. If you love cherries, the cherry galette in the book is a seasonal favourite. Compliments of the season to you and your family. Best regards Di